How to Clean & Restore a Western Saddle

A new western saddle can set you back $1,000 or more at your local tack shop. But you might be able to pick up a used saddle for just a few hundred. If you can find a western saddle that is structurally sound but needs some TLC, you can save a lot of money and get a saddle you will be proud to ride in. Cleaning that dirty old saddle will take some time, but the money you save can make it more than worthwhile.

Things You'll Need

  • Saddle stand
  • Soft brush
  • Saddle soap
  • Soft cloth
  • Leather conditoner
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Place the saddle on a sturdy saddle stand. It is easier to clean the saddle if it is sitting on a solid surface.

    • 2

      Brush away any caked-on mud or dirt with a soft-bristle brush. The type of soft brush you use to groom your horse is perfect for the job. Gently clean away any dried mud until the leather is showing through.

    • 3

      Dip a soft cloth in warm water and then in a can of saddle soap. Work up a good lather with the saddle soap and clean one section of the saddle at a time. You can start with the swells and the horn at the front of the saddle, then slowly work your way back to the stirrups, fenders, skirts and cantle.

    • 4

      Rub the saddle soap into the leather by moving the cloth in a circular motion. Work the saddle soap into the leather and allow it to penetrate deeply. Let the saddle soap sit on the leather until it hardens, then wipe away the excess with a soft cloth before moving on to the next section. If the leather is worn or heavily soiled, you might have to apply several coats of saddle soap and wipe it off before you see an improvement in the condition of the saddle.

    • 5

      Soak a soft cloth in a quality leather conditioner and rub it into the surface of the leather, working on one section at a time. If you have a light-colored saddle, use only conditioners designed for light leather. Other conditioners could darken the leather or even stain it.

    • 6

      Allow the leather conditioner to soak into the surface of the saddle, then wipe away the excess. When you are done the saddle should look shiny but not feel wet.