8 Tips for Cleaning Tack--From A Professional!

Cleaning tack is one of those necessary chores that pays off in the long run. It keeps your gear looking great, feeling comfortable, and most importantly, safe for you and your horse. Regular maintenance doesn’t have to be a drag, and with these tips, you can make cleaning tack a manageable part of your routine.

Let’s dive into the essentials of keeping your leather in top shape!

1. Clean Tack Regularly

The easiest way to keep your tack in great condition is to clean it after every ride. Trust me, it only takes a few minutes and saves you from bigger issues later. Sweat, dirt, and grease can really take a toll on leather if left unchecked.

Use a damp cloth to wipe down your tack, then apply a leather-safe saddle soap sparingly to remove grime. Be careful not to soak the leather—too much water can do more harm than good.

2. Condition Sparingly

Conditioning is where many people go overboard. While cleaning tack regularly is important, conditioning should only be done a few times a year. This step restores moisture to the leather, keeping it soft and supple, but did you know that over-conditioning can actually weaken it? You definitely don't want that.

For pieces like stirrup leathers, billets, and reins, too much conditioner can cause them to stretch or become slippery, which is the last thing you want when safety is involved!

Instead, focus on cleaning sweat and salt off these pieces after every ride, and condition sparingly.

When you do condition, consider using a sprayable conditioner or a Neatsfoot Oil conditioner.

3. Understand Your Leather

Before you start cleaning tack, it’s worth taking a moment to figure out what kind of leather you’re working with. Smooth leather follows the standard cleaning and conditioning rules, but suede or rough-out leather is a different story.

These materials are designed to wear naturally, so adding oils or conditioners can lead to staining or premature wear. When in doubt, check the manufacturer’s guidelines or ask a saddle expert for advice.

4. Store Tack Properly

Proper storage can make a huge difference in how well your tack holds up. Leather is sensitive to moisture, heat, and extreme dryness, so keeping it in a climate-controlled space is ideal.

Cover your saddle when it’s not in use, and never leave it in a damp or overly warm tack room for extended periods. Avoid placing wet saddle pads on top of your saddle, as the salt in sweat can damage leather and increase the risk of mold.

If you don’t have a climate-controlled tack room, bring your saddle home occasionally to give it a little TLC.

5. Do a Deep Clean Periodically

Sometimes your tack needs more than a quick wipe-down. When that’s the case, I like to set aside a weekend for a good, deep clean.

• Start by using a quality saddle soap and a toothbrush to get into all the nooks and crannies.
• Wipe away excess soap with a damp cloth and let the leather dry completely. Sometimes you may need to repeat this process if there’s stubborn grime.
• Once your tack is clean, decide whether it needs conditioning. If so, apply a small amount of conditioner in layers, allowing each layer to dry fully before adding more.

6. Inspect for Damage

Cleaning tack is also the perfect time to check for wear and tear. Look for cracks in the leather, loose or broken stitching, and stretched billets or stirrup leathers. These are safety-critical pieces, so it’s worth taking the time to inspect them closely.

If anything looks damaged, repair or replace it as soon as possible—your safety depends on it!

7. Protect Tack in Wet Weather

Riding in the rain? Protecting your tack from wet weather is key. Use a waterproof saddle cover or a long riding coat to keep your saddle dry.

If your leather does get wet, let it dry naturally—don’t use direct heat, as this can cause cracking or discoloration. And remember, never oil wet leather! Always wait until it’s completely dry before conditioning.

8. Pay Attention to the Details

When it comes to cleaning tack, it’s the little things that make a big difference. Use a damp cloth to wipe away excess soap, especially in crevices and folds.

Avoid over-soaping; this is definitely a “less is more” situation. And don’t underestimate the power of a toothbrush for reaching those tricky spots! These small details can help keep your tack looking its best and performing well.

A Few More Thoughts on Cleaning Tack

Cleaning tack might not be the most exciting part of riding, but it’s one of the most rewarding. Regular care not only keeps your gear looking great but also extends its lifespan and keeps you and your horse safe.

Custom Saddlery products are built to last, but they perform even better with proper maintenance. Whether you’re wiping down your tack after every ride or doing a deep clean on the weekend, these tips will help you keep everything in excellent condition.

If you have questions about cleaning tack or need advice on saddle fitting, don’t hesitate to reach out—I’m always happy to help! Be sure to check out my other blog posts for more tips and tricks to keep your equipment in top shape.