How to Clean Sheepskin Boots

Clean your sheepskin boots to keep them like new.

Warm and cozy sheepskin boots can turn into funky-smelling dirty fuzz balls without proper cleaning. Using Woolite or cleaner made for sheepskin boots and common household ingredients, you can get rid of the funk and keep your boots in tip-top shape. Just follow the steps below.

Things You'll Need

• Sheepskin cleanser, such as Ugg boot cleaner or Woolite
• Paper towel
• Toothbrush
• Sponge
• 2 tbsp. baking soda
• 1 drop of peppermint essential oil

Instructions

1. Moisten the outside of your boots with cold water by patting them with wet paper towel. Get them slightly damp. Soaking your boots will ruin them.

2. Dilute one part sheepskin cleanser, such as UGG brand, with one part water or 2 tablespoons of Woolite in two cups of cold water. Soak a sponge in the solution and squeeze out excess water.

3. Clean the outside of your boots with the sponge, using small, gentle strokes. Continue cleaning until dirt is lifted. To remove tough dirt or stains, soak a toothbrush in the cleanser and scrub area gently. Rinse the sponge with cold water and ring it out. Go over the outside of the boots again to clean off any excess soap.

4. Stuff the inside of the boots with paper towel or tissue paper to keep their shape. Stuff them so they are snug. Put the boots in a dark, airy place to dry. Keep them out of direct sunlight and heat, as this can damage or shrink the sheepskin.

5. When the boots are dry, remove the paper. Brush the outside of the boots with a suede brush to soften and restore the look of the pile.

6. Use a rough, dry hand towel to remove any dirt and separate any fur clumps inside the boots. To keep the fuzzy inside smelling fresh, mix two tablespoons of baking soda with a drop of peppermint essential oil. Sprinkle the mixture inside your boots. Shake the boots and let them sit overnight. Empty the excess powder in the morning.

Tips & Warnings

• Apply a sheepskin water- and stain-repellent conditioner on your boots to keep them protected.

• Never put sheepskin boots in the washing machine.

• Sheepskin does not hold up in wet weather. Excessive moisture will ruin the leather. Wear your boots on dry days and watch for puddles.