How to care for winter shoes and UGGs – avoid moisture, odor and wear and tear
Winter shoes are often worn day after day. Snow, slush, moisture, and temperature fluctuations leave their marks – especially on materials like suede, sheepskin, and wool. And just like with other garments, dirt is rarely the biggest problem. It's the moisture and odor that arise when shoes aren't allowed to dry properly.
With proper care, your winter shoes can last season after season.
Why is moisture bad for winter shoes?
When shoes remain wet for prolonged periods:
- materials break down
- the shape changes
- odor builds up
- the lining wears out faster
Moisture that doesn't dry out is one of the most common reasons why winter shoes lose both comfort and longevity.
Use wooden shoe trees – especially after use
Wooden shoe trees (preferably cedar wood) help to:
- absorb moisture from within
- preserve the shape
- reduce the risk of bad odor
This is particularly important for UGGs and other sheepskin boots that can easily lose their shape when damp.
Don't have shoe trees? Stuff them with paper temporarily, but avoid newspaper as it can bleed ink.
Impregnate suede and delicate materials
Suede and sheepskin are popular but delicate materials. Regular impregnation creates a protective layer, making the surface water-repellent and reducing the risk of stains and moisture damage. For best effect, impregnate before the first use and reapply during the season as needed. The more often you wear the shoes, the more frequently they need to be impregnated, as the protective layer wears down with each use.
How to remove salt stains from UGGs and suede shoes?
Salt stains are one of the most common problems during winter. When slush and road salt dry, they leave white marks on suede and sheepskin, and if left for too long, they can permanently affect the material.
Here's how to remove salt stains:
- Allow the shoes to dry thoroughly at room temperature.
- Mix equal parts water and vinegar.
- Lightly dampen a soft cloth and gently dab the stain.
- Let it air dry naturally and repeat if the stain persists.
- Then brush up the suede with a suede brush.
Avoid getting the entire shoe wet. Work locally and gently. Once the stain is gone, re-impregnate to protect the material for the future.
How to remove odor from winter shoes and UGGs?
Odor arises when moisture and heat create an environment where odor-producing bacteria thrive. Especially in lined winter shoes, odor can quickly build up. Therefore, you want to break down the odor in the material, not just mask it. Pure Effect Textile Spray can be used inside the shoe to neutralize odor between uses. Spray the entire inside of the shoes and let it work for a few hours while the beneficial bacteria in the spray combat the odor. A simple way to remove odor without wearing out the material.
Avoid common mistakes
- Do not place winter shoes directly on radiators (this can dry out and crack the material)
- Do not store them enclosed when they are damp
- Do not machine wash suede and sheepskin
- Do not wait too long to address odor
Caring for winter shoes and UGGs is not about advanced routines, but about small habits. Let them dry thoroughly, protect the materials, and address odor before it sets in. With proper care, both shape, comfort, and feel will last longer – season after season.
If you want to remove odor and freshen up winter shoes and UGGs between uses, you can read more about Pure Effect Textile Spray here.
Frequently asked questions about winter shoes and UGGs
How do you properly care for UGGs?
Let them dry thoroughly after use, use wooden shoe trees to absorb moisture, and impregnate regularly to protect the material from water and salt.
How do you remove odor from winter shoes?
Allow the shoes to dry completely between uses. To break down odor in the material, you can freshen up the inside with Pure Effect Textile Spray, which uses biological action to neutralize odor instead of masking it.
How do you remove salt stains from UGGs?
Gently dab with a solution of water and vinegar, let dry at room temperature, and brush up the suede. Avoid getting the entire shoe wet and re-impregnate afterward.
Can you machine wash UGGs?
No. Machine washing can damage the sheepskin and affect the fit and structure. Clean stains locally and treat the material gently.
How do you properly dry wet winter shoes?
Let them dry at room temperature with good air circulation. Avoid radiators or direct heat, which can dry out and crack the material.
Do you need to impregnate suede every season?
Yes, and with frequent use, even during the season, especially if the shoes are often worn in slush and snow. Impregnation makes the surface more water-repellent and reduces the risk of stains.
