Ugg boots are known for their soft, warm, and cozy interiors made from genuine sheepskin. However, the exterior suede material is prone to water damage and stains. So can you waterproof Uggs boots?

Yes, you can waterproof your Ugg boots! While you can’t make them 100% waterproof, you can make them water resistant to protect them from rain and snow.

In this complete guide, we will cover everything you need to know about waterproofing your Ugg boots, including:

Key Takeaways:

• Use a suede waterproofing spray to make Uggs water resistant
• Clean boots first before applying spray
• Lightly coat entire exterior suede surface
• Allow 24 hours drying time between coats
• Reapply spray every 1-3 months for protection

What You’ll Need to Waterproof Ugg Boots

Before starting the waterproofing process, you’ll need to gather the necessary supplies:

• Ugg sheepskin cleaner and conditioner
• Water repellent spray designed for suede and leather
• Soft bristle suede brush
• Clean cloth
• Newspaper

Using Ugg brand care products is highly recommended, as they are specifically designed to care for sheepskin and won’t damage the boots. Make sure the water repellent spray you choose is suitable for suede and leather.

How to Clean Ugg Boots Before Waterproofing

It’s important to thoroughly clean your Ugg boots before waterproofing them. Here are the steps:

1. Remove any surface dirt and stains by gently brushing the boots with a soft bristle suede brush. Brush in the direction of the suede grain.
2. Mix a small amount of Ugg sheepskin cleaner with cold water in a bowl. Dip a clean, soft cloth into the solution and gently wipe down the exterior of the boots.
3. Rinse the same cloth in plain cold water, wring it out well, and wipe the boots again to remove any cleaner residue.
4. Allow the boots to air dry completely before moving onto the waterproofing steps. Stuff them with newspaper to help them retain their shape as they dry.

How to Apply Waterproofing Spray to Ugg Boots

Once your Ugg boots are fully clean and dry, you can begin waterproofing:

1. Lay down newspaper or paper towels in your work area to protect the surface from overspray.
2. Use a suede brush to gently brush the nap of the suede, going in the same direction as the grain. This helps lift the fibers to better absorb the spray.
3. Apply a light, even coating of water repellent spray to the entire exterior surface of the boots from a distance of 8-10 inches. Slowly spray back and forth to cover.
4. Allow the boots to dry for at least 24 hours before wearing. The water repellent needs time to fully set into the suede fibers.
5. Apply a second coat of spray, following steps 2-4 again. Two coats are recommended for optimal protection.

How Often Should You Re-Waterproof Ugg Boots?

• For light wear: Every 2-3 months
• For heavy wear: Every 1-2 months
• After getting caught in heavy rain or snow

How your Ugg boots are worn and cared for will determine how often they need to be re-waterproofed. If worn frequently in rain and snow, reapply the water repellent spray more often.

Will Waterproofing Spray Change the Look or Feel of Ugg Boots?

When applied properly, waterproofing spray will not significantly alter the look or feel of your Ugg boots. It should not affect the color or texture. Always do a spot test first.

Using a light, even coating is key – you don’t need to oversaturate the suede. Allowing proper drying time will also prevent any discoloration or stains from developing.

Can You Fully Waterproof Ugg Boots?

No, it’s not possible to make Ugg boots 100% waterproof. The natural suede exterior will never be as waterproof as rubber rain boots.

However, waterproofing sprays can make Ugg boots water resistant enough to withstand light rain, snow, puddles, and damp weather. Just don’t go stomping through deep puddles!

Are Certain Ugg Boot Styles Easier to Waterproof?

Ugg boots with a smooth leather exterior tend to be easier to waterproof compared to suede styles. The spray is able to penetrate the leather fibers more easily.

Short Classic Uggs and Ultra Mini Uggs have less surface area to cover, so they require less waterproofing spray than tall boots.

In general, avoid heavily pigmented or dyed Ugg boots if you want to waterproof. The heavy dye jobs can sometimes resist the spray. Stick to natural tan or neutral colors that absorb the water repellent easier.

Do’s and Don’ts When Waterproofing Ugg Boots

Do:

• Always use Ugg cleaner and care products
• Test spray in an inconspicuous spot first
• Apply light, even coats of spray and allow boots to fully dry between coats
• Reapply waterproofing frequently for heavy wear

Don’t:

• Use household cleaners like detergents
• Soak the sheepskin or suede leather
• Use heat from hairdryers or direct sunlight to dry
• Apply excess spray that saturates the boots
• Wear boots before they are fully dry

Will Waterproofing Spray Protect Sheepskin Lining?

The waterproofing spray applied to the exterior suede or leather of the boots will not protect the inside sheepskin lining.

The sheepskin naturally repels moisture to some degree, but it can still become soaked through if the boots are submerged in water.

Avoid getting the sheepskin excessively wet. Always let the interior fully dry out after wearing in rain or snow before putting them away for storage.

How to Clean Uggs After Exposure to Water or Snow

If your waterproofed Uggs do get wet on the inside from rain or snow, follow these steps:

1. Remove insoles and allow to fully air dry.
2. Stuff boots with paper towels to absorb excess moisture. Replace towels as needed.
3. Once exterior is dry, lightly brush suede with suede brush to restore nap.
4. When fully dry, apply Ugg Cleaner and Conditioner to the interior sheepskin lining.
5. Let the conditioner soak in for a few minutes before wiping away any excess with a clean cloth.
6. Allow boots to completely dry before wearing or storing.

Are There Waterproof Uggs Available?

Yes, Ugg makes a few boot styles that are fully waterproof right out of the box:

• Ugg Siena Rain Boot – Waterproof matte rubber rain boot
• Ugg Simmens Waterproof Boot – Waterproof full-grain leather with wool blend lining
• Ugg Bonham Chelsea Rain Boot – Waterproof rubber Chelsea rain boot
• Ugg Classic Clear Mini – Transparent waterproof plastic upper with moisture-wicking lining

These waterproof Ugg styles allow you to splash through puddles without worrying about damage. No extra waterproofing spray needed!

Waterproof vs Water Resistant Uggs

To summarize:

• Waterproof Ugg boots are designed with waterproof materials to keep feet dry. They can withstand being submerged in water. Examples are rain boots like the Siena and Bonham.
• Water resistant Ugg boots have been treated with a water repellent spray to resist moisture and stains. They can withstand light rain and snow, but cannot be fully submerged. Examples are Classic Uggs and Mini Uggs that have been properly sprayed.

So in review, you can waterproof classic Ugg boot styles to make them water resistant. But full waterproof Ugg boots are also available if you need to tread through deep puddles!

How to Care for Your Waterproofed Uggs

Now that you’ve waterproofed your Uggs, let’s go over some care tips to ensure they remain in great condition:

Storage

• Always allow boots to fully air dry before storing
• Stuff with paper to retain shape if needed
• Store in a cool, dry place away from direct heat or sunlight
• Consider Ugg shoe trees to absorb excess moisture and maintain form

Cleaning

• Gently wipe exterior suede with damp cloth
• Use Ugg cleaner and conditioner on exterior as needed
• Spot clean interior sheepskin lining when dirty
• Hand wash removable insoles
• Never submerge entire boot in water

Drying

• Always air dry boots naturally
• Never use heat sources like radiators or hairdryers
• Stuff damp boots with paper towels to absorb moisture
• Replace towels frequently
• Use Ugg Shoe Care Kit drying powder

Properly caring for your waterproofed Ugg boots will help retain their water resistance and keep them looking great. Avoid excess moisture and heat, and clean gently when needed.

How to Repair Water-Damaged Uggs

Even with waterproofing, Ugg boots can become damaged by heavy exposure to water. Here’s how to repair water damaged Uggs:

Dry Out Thoroughly

• Remove boots insoles and allow to fully air dry
• Stuff damp boots with paper towels, replacing frequently
• Allow 24-48 hours for boots to dry completely

Thorough drying is key to avoiding further damage and inhibiting mold or bacteria growth. Do not wear boots until all moisture is removed.

Re-Shape While Drying

• Stuff boots with towels or shoe trees to retain shape
• Check and re-stuff boots periodically while drying
• Once dry, wear boots with socks to help re-form to feet

Reshaping while drying will help prevent Uggs from becoming misshapen. Wearing damp Uggs can also cause them to stretch.

Treat and Re-Waterproof

• Once fully dry, brush suede nap with suede brush
• Apply Ugg Protector water repellent spray
• Treat interior sheepskin lining with Ugg Cleaner and Conditioner

Re-waterproofing and conditioning your Uggs after water exposure will help restore their weather resistance and softness.

Remove Salt and Odor

• For sea water or salty sidewalks, wipe boots with vinegar and water solution
• Apply baking soda to sheepskin lining to deodorize
• Use Ugg Shoe Care Kit powder to absorb odors

Salt can damage the sheepskin lining over time. Baking soda and shoe care powder helps remove odors from damp boots.

With some TLC, you can rescue your water damaged Uggs and extend their life. Thorough drying is essential before further care and wearing again.

How to Stretch Tight Uggs after Waterproofing

After waterproofing spray treatment, some Ugg boots may feel a little tighter at first. Here are some tips to stretch them back out:

• Wear boots with thick socks and walk around house
• Stuff boots with damp newspaper or towels overnight
• Use Ugg Stretcher spray on tight spots
• Bring to a shoe cobbler for professional stretching
• Wash and fully dry boots to soften leather
• Apply conditioner to re-soften exterior suede or leather

Wearing and walking helps the boots mold back to your feet. Damp stuffing stretches the interior overnight. Avoid heat methods like hairdryers that can damage the sheepskin.

Will Waterproofing Spray Ruin Uggs?

Waterproofing spray absolutely will not ruin Ugg boots when applied correctly. However, improper use of the spray can potentially damage them:

What to Avoid:

• Using too much spray and oversaturating the boots
• Not allowing proper drying time between coats
• Wearing boots before the water repellent has fully cured
• Using hairdryers or direct heat to speed up drying
• Applying spray too close to the boots and concentrating in one spot

How to Apply Correctly:

• 2 light, even coats minimum 6-8 inches away
• Slowly spray back and forth to fully cover exterior
• Let boots dry 24 hours between coats in a well-ventilated area
• Avoid excess buildup of spray in seam areas
• Spot test first in an inconspicuous area to check absorption

As long as you follow the proper spray guidelines and allow adequate drying time, waterproofing spray is a safe way to protect your Ugg boots from the elements. Avoid over-saturation and heat, and your Uggs will maintain their look and feel.

Alternative Ways to Waterproof Uggs

Aside from commercial waterproofing sprays, there are a few alternative DIY options to treat your Uggs:

Beeswax Method

Rub a beeswax block or furniture wax stick over the clean exterior suede to create a protective barrier. Buff the excess wax with a microfiber cloth. Reapply every few months.

Vaseline Method

Apply a thin layer of Vaseline petroleum jelly to exterior with a clean cloth or old toothbrush. Wipe away any excess. Reapply frequently for light water protection.

Vaseline. If you’re having problems with your leather shoes, you can always use Vaseline to waterproof your shoes temporarily. You will need to clean your shoes beforehand, then simply coat them in a layer of Vaseline and it’ll do the job just as well.

https://www.shoezone.com/Blog/how-to-waterproof-boots-shoes-your-complete-guide#:

Coconut Oil Method

Melt coconut oil and gently rub into exterior suede with clean hands or cloth. Wipe away excess oil. Condition the sheepskin lining also by massaging oil into fibers.

These DIY waterproofing options work best for lightly worn Uggs. The protection won’t be as heavy duty as commercial sprays. Reapplication is needed frequently. But it allows you to waterproof your boots with natural household ingredients.

Waterproof Spray vs Silicone Spray for Uggs

When it comes to waterproofing sprays, you can choose between waterproofing formulas or silicone sprays:

Waterproofing Spray

• Designed for leather, suede, nubuck shoes
• Contains fluorocarbons for water resistance
• Forms a protective barrier against moisture
• Can alter suede color slightly over time
• Needs reapplied every 1-3 months

Silicone Spray

• Made for leather, vinyl, rubber, plastic
• Contains silicones to repel water
• Leaves a slick, waxy coating on surface
• Helps prevent salt and dirt stains
• Needs reapplied more frequently

Waterproofing sprays bond to the suede fibers for longer protection. Silicone sprays coat the exterior with a water-beading barrier, but don’t last as long.

For the most durable water resistance for Ugg boots, a spray made specifically for suede and leather is best. But silicone spray can also work in a pinch.

Can You Use Scotchgard on Uggs?

Scotchgard Heavy Duty Water Shield is a popular household waterproofing spray. But can you use it on Uggs?

The short answer – yes, you can use Scotchgard on Uggs. However, there are a few drawbacks:

• Scotchgard is not formulated specifically for suede or sheepskin. A suede waterproofing spray would be a better option.
• The acrylic polymers can leave a plastic-like coating on the suede that alters texture over time.
• The heavy duty formula may be too harsh for soft leathers and affect breathability.
• Scotchgard requires more frequent reapplication than Ugg sprays.

While Scotchgard does provide decent water protection for Uggs, a spray made for suede and sheepskin will bond better to the fibers and be gentler over long term use.

If using Scotchgard, apply very light coats allowing boots to fully dry between to avoid residue buildup. Always do a test spot first.

Ugg Care Tips to Protect Your Waterproofed Boots

Here are some tips for caring for your Uggs to make waterproofing treatments last:

• Check weather forecast – avoid heavy rain or snow if possible
• Apply waterproofing spray before wearing in wet conditions
• Wipe boots down after exposure to remove salt, dirt
• Allow boots to fully air dry after wear before storing
• Use Ugg sheepskin cleaner and conditioner regularly
• Spot clean stains quickly with Ugg care wipes
• Brush suede nap gently with soft suede brush
• Check water resistance every 1-2 months and re-spray as needed
• Take boots to a professional cleaner annually for a deep clean

Proper care is just as crucial as waterproofing your Uggs. Allow boots to dry fully between wears, clean gently but frequently, and replenish water protection often.

Waterproofing FAQs

Let’s review some frequently asked questions about waterproofing Ugg boots:

Can you put Ugg boots in the washing machine?

No, never put Uggs in the washing machine or dryer. The rough agitation can damage the suede and shrink the sheepskin. Always hand wash and air dry away from direct heat.

How long does waterproofing spray last on Uggs?

With light wear, waterproofing can last 1-3 months. For heavy wear in wet conditions, reapply every 1-2 months. Re-spray whenever water resistance seems to be decreasing.

Is there a waterproofing service for Uggs?

Some shoe repair shops offer professional Uggs waterproofing services for around $15-$30. Or you can also mail your boots to Ugg’s repair center for new waterproof treatment.

What happens if you don’t waterproof Uggs?

Without waterproofing, Ugg boots will absorb water and snow leading to stains, salt damage, misshaping, and mold. The sheepskin lining can also become soaked through.