How To Clean Shearling Boots [5 Steps]

Shearling boots are a super cozy style and look that pairs lovely with many different outfits. This style has become a fall and winter staple, standing the test of time for a popular boot. Once you've chosen your favorite pair, you'll want to keep them looking clean and new. This guide will show you how to clean and care for your shearling boots.

To clean your shearling boots, follow these steps:

  1. Brush the boots with a suede brush and eraser to loosen and remove loose dirt and debris.
  2. Lightly dampen the outside of the boot with a clean damp cloth.
  3. Gently scrub any stains with a mixture of half water and half vinegar.
  4. Use another damp cloth to remove the vinegar mixture from the boots.
  5. Allow boots to air dry.

Using this method, your shearling boots will maintain a like-new look and last for years. We'll discuss even more tips about how to best care for your boots, whether or not they're waterproof, and how long they'll last. We'll also provide you with shopping links to some of the best shearling boots on the market. So be sure to keep reading.

Full length portrait of confident woman standing arms crossed against wooden wall while wearing shearling boots, How To Clean Shearling Boots [5 Steps]

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How To Clean Shearling Boots

Let's look a little more closely at the cleaning process and products that will make caring for your boots easier.

Brush The Boots With A Suede Brush And Eraser

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When choosing an eraser, look for one that is white or light-colored to avoid further staining your boots. Colored erasers can bleed onto the suede. Use the brush lightly to remove any loose dirt and apply the eraser to scuff marks and stuck-on dirt. Brushing your boots after each wear will help prevent the build-up of dirt on the boots, preventing them from becoming stained and damaged.

Dampen With A Clean Cloth

The trick to wetting the outside of your boots is to use just enough water to dampen the surface. Using your clean cloth, dampen the entire outside surface of the boots, but avoid soaking the boots with too much water. Using too much water and soaking the boots will damage the sheepskin.

Gently Scrub The Books With A Vinegar Solution

Use a vinegar solution to remove any stains on your boots. In a small bowl, create a solution with a 1/2 cup of water and a 1/2 cup of vinegar. When scrubbing stains on the boots, use a gentle motion. Scrubbing too hard will remove the color from your boots.

Rinse The Vinegar Off With A Damp Cloth

After you've treated all stains with the vinegar solution, rinse the vinegar solution from the boots using another clean damp cloth with plain water. Again, avoid over-soaking the boots with the water to prevent damage.

All Boots To Air Dry

After all the cleaning steps, leave your boots to air dry in a cool, dry place. Avoid placing them in direct sunlight. Do not use a fan or a heater on your boots because drying too quickly may cause your boots to shrink or become stiff.

Additional Tips

Here are a few more tips to keep your boots in great shape:

  • If the inside of your boots has an odor, place two teaspoons each of baking soda and cornstarch in each boot and shake. After a few hours, dump the powders. This will freshen your boots and take away smells.
  • To remove a greasy stain on your boots, apply a little bit of talcum powder to the stain and leave it overnight. The next day, brush the powder away. The powder should soak up the grease stain.
  • If you find a water stain on your boots, rub the other boot against the stain. Rubbing sheepskin against sheepskin will remove this type of stain.
  • When storing your boots, stuff paper towel rolls or an empty wine bottle inside them to help maintain their shape.

Cleaning The Inside Of Your Boots

You'll also want to clean the inside of your boots to prevent odors from settling. Wipe down the interior of the boot with a solution of disinfecting cleaner and water. Lysol is a great option, but avoid bleach. Bleach will make your boots stiff.

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You can also spray the interior with an anti-fungal spray.

Click here to see this spray on Amazon.

How Do You Protect Shearling?

You can protect your boots from damage by treating them with a water and stain protectant while they are still new. Do not spray boots that are already dirty. Spraying while they are new will protect against staining and keep dirt from setting in.

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While a treatment spray will help prevent damage, avoid letting your boots soak in water or melted snow. This can leave water stains and loosen adhesives on your boots. It may also change the shape of your boot. Preventing water exposure will protect your boots.

Are Shearling Boots Waterproof?

Shearling boots are not waterproof but can be treated with water repellants to make them water-resistant. You should still avoid water exposure as much as possible, even to treated boots.

This YouTube video will show you how to safely waterproof your boots:

How Long Will Shearling Boots Last?

With attentive care, shearling boots can last from 5 to 20 years. This will depend on how frequently they are worn and the weather conditions you wear them in. Exposure to water and snow will significantly decrease the lifespan of your boots.

What Are Some Of The Best Shearling Boots?

Let's take a closer look at some of the best shearling boots available on the market.

Ugg

Ugg is the brand that most people identify with shearling boots. Uggs are a quality boot with a distinctive style. You can find Uggs in various styles, even slippers. For an iconic shearling boot, you can't go wrong with Ugg. This tall Ugg boot is the classic style most associated with shearling boots.

Click here to find these boots on Amazon. 

Minnetonka

Minnetonka boots are soft and comfortable. These boots will contour themselves to the shape of your foot, becoming even more comfortable over time. You will also find Minnetonka styles that are ankle height boots.

Click here to see these boots on Amazon.

Skechers

Skechers provides an affordable look-alike alternative to pricier brands. These boots are a synthetic material that has already been treated with Scotchguard to provide some water resistance.

Click here to see these boots on Amazon.

BearPaw

BearPaw boots are a classically designed shearling boot. They also come in various heights and styles. BearPaw is made of authentic suede.

Click here to find these boots on Amazon.

In Closing

Shearling boots are the ultimate comfortable, cozy boot. With their soft cushy interior and classic look, it's easy to understand why the style has remained popular for so long. Keep your boots clean and in good condition by using the tips above, and you'll have years of wear from your boots.

Do you love wearing boots? Check out our post, 25 Types Of Boots For Women [A Fashion Guide], to find your favorite style recommendations.

For a sizing guide related to boots, our post Is Your Boot Size The Same As Your Shoe Size? will help you determine the best size of boot to try.

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