Ugg boots are one of those shoes that seem to withstand the ever changing fashion trends. So much so, that people wear them year round-- not just on cold winter nights. The boots' warm sheepskin and wool provide more than just a fashion statement during the winter months; they're a warm comfy haven for cold feet and a staple that you may never want to leave home without. However, frequent wear leads to inevitable stains and loss of color on these beloved boots. Salt stains from snow and ice are a common culprit of Ugg discoloration. But don't stress, follow these simple steps to clean your Uggs and restore them to their original splendor.
Using a damp sponge, lightly moisten the entire surface of each boot. Do not immerse the boots completely in water or it will damage their lining and alter the shape.
Mix together a solution containing 1/4 part cleaner, 1/4 part conditioner and 1/2 part water. Apply a small amount of the solution to a clean, wet sponge. Do not apply the solution directly to boots or you will damage the sheepskin.
Rub the solution on each boot gently and evenly until it begins to foam. Cover each boot with this solution. Scrub the areas containing dirt, grime, and salt until it is all removed. Immediately, follow this by rinsing each boot with a clean damp sponge.
Stuff the boots' interior with paper towels or newspaper to help maintain their shape while wet and place the boots in a cool, dry area to dry, away from direct sunlight. Allow the boots to dry completely before use. This may take up to 24 hours.
Once they are completely dry, brush your Uggs with a suede brush. Be sure to brush the fabric in only one direction. Brushing will help remove any remaining dirt and salt caught in the sheepskin and help restore texture and color.
Tip
Ugg offers a "Water and Stain Repellent" that can be sprayed on your boots before wearing to minimize stains or discoloration. Avoid wearing your Ugg boots through heavy rain or snow to maintain their condition. If your Uggs aren't responding to at-home treatment, several online sites, such as The Ugg Doctor, offer color restoration for your Uggs.
Warning
Washing Uggs in a washing machine will further erode the color. Since Uggs are made out of sheepskin, they must be cleaned delicately and by hand only.
References
Writer Bio
Based in Little Rock, Arkansas, Kristi Gray has been writing for over fourteen years with extensive experience in legal and business writing. Her articles have appeared in the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette and trade newsletters. She has won several awards at the annual Arkansas Writers' Conference. Gray holds a Bachelor's Degree in English from the University of Arkansas.