How to Waterproof & Care for Winter Boots (UGG, Timberland, Dr. Martens)

UGG, Timberland, and Dr. Martens are built from very different materials, so each one needs a slightly different care routine to stay protected through wet, cold weather. This guide walks through how to waterproof and clean each brand the right way. Feet Heart has been an authorized retailer for UGG, Timberland, and Dr. Martens since 2003, so these are the same steps we share with customers in our shops.

How do I waterproof UGG boots?

Pre-treat new UGG boots with a suede and sheepskin water-repellent spray before you wear them, then re-apply periodically. The spray helps the suede shrug off light moisture, but UGGs are not designed to be soaked.

• Spray a clean, dry boot with a suede/sheepskin-safe water repellent and let it dry fully before wearing.
• Avoid soaking or submerging UGGs. They handle light moisture, not puddles or heavy rain.
• Blot spills fast with a clean cloth so liquid does not set into the suede.

How to clean UGG suede and sheepskin

• Use a dedicated suede or UGG cleaner with cold water. Avoid hot water, which can damage the material.
• Stuff the boots with paper to hold their shape while they dry.
• Air-dry away from direct heat and sun. No radiators, heaters, or hair dryers.
• Once dry, brush the suede to lift and restore the nap.

How do I remove salt stains from UGGs?

Winter salt can leave white marks on suede. Dab the stain gently with a damp cloth and a tiny bit of vinegar mixed with water, then let the boot air-dry and brush the nap back up. For deeper cleaning, see our guide to cleaning UGG boots.

How do I protect Timberland boots?

Treat Timberland nubuck with a nubuck or suede protector spray, and re-apply it periodically. The classic 6-inch boot is built to be water-resistant, but a fresh coat of protector keeps that resistance up over time.

• Apply a nubuck/suede protector spray to clean, dry boots, then let them dry before wearing.
• Clean with a nubuck brush to lift dirt without flattening the texture.
• Use Timberland's own care products to clean and condition the leather.
• Re-treat with protector on a regular basis, especially before winter.

How do I care for Dr. Martens leather boots?

Condition and protect smooth Dr. Martens leather with Dr. Martens Wonder Balsam (or a quality leather conditioner) to nourish the leather and add water resistance, then buff it to a finish.

• Wipe the boots clean before conditioning.
• Work a thin layer of Wonder Balsam or leather conditioner into the leather.
• Let it absorb, then buff with a soft cloth.
• Re-apply periodically to keep the leather supple and resistant to moisture.

Are Dr. Martens boots waterproof?

Not all of them. Standard Dr. Martens smooth-leather boots are water-resistant, not fully waterproof. Only the Dr. Martens waterproof lines, often labeled "Hydro" or "WP," are built to be truly waterproof. Always check the specific style before relying on it in heavy rain or snow. For more, see our Dr. Martens care guide.

What is the difference between waterproof and water-resistant?

Water-resistant means a boot can handle light rain, splashes, and short exposure, but it can let water in if soaked or submerged. Waterproof means the boot is built and sealed to keep water out in wet conditions. Most everyday leather, suede, and nubuck boots are water-resistant; truly waterproof boots are specifically designed and labeled that way. If you need a boot for real rain or snow, confirm it is the waterproof version of the style.

How should I dry and store winter boots?

Dry wet boots slowly at room temperature and store them somewhere dry. Heat and damp are what ruin leather and suede over a season.

• Never dry boots on a radiator or near a heater. Heat cracks leather and dries out suede.
• Use cedar shoe trees or stuff boots with paper to help them hold their shape as they dry.
• Store boots away from damp areas to prevent mildew and material breakdown.
• Re-apply the right protector spray or conditioner at the start of each wet season.

Where can I shop these brands at Feet Heart?

Feet Heart is a family-run Southern California comfort-shoe store and an authorized retailer for UGG, Timberland, and Dr. Martens since 2003. Browse the collections, or jump straight to popular in-stock winter pairs:

• UGG: Classic Mini II, Women's Neumel Chukka, Classic Short II — or browse all UGG boots.
• Timberland: Earthkeeper 6-Inch, Redwood Moc-Toe Waterproof, Women's Nellie Waterproof Chukka — or browse all Timberland boots.
• Dr. Martens: 1460 8-Eye Boot, 1460 Pascal, 2976 Chelsea — or browse all Dr. Martens boots.
• See the warmest UGG boots for winter

Every order ships free within the U.S. and comes with free 30-day returns.

Need help choosing or fitting your winter boots?

Our team can help you pick the right brand, size, and care kit for how you actually wear your boots. Call us at (310) 398-7497 or email info@feetheart.com, or visit us in person at our Feet World stores in Culver City and at Westfield Santa Anita in Arcadia.