How often a saddle must be cleaned depends on how much it is used. If a horse is ridden on dry, dusty trails several times a week, the saddle will need to be cleaned and oiled much more frequently than if the horse is ridden occasionally in a grassy, penned area.
Things You'll Need
- Bucket of warm water
- Saddle soap
- Soft-bristled brush
- Clean, dry cloths
- Saddle oil
- Leather butter or conditioner
Instructions
Mount the saddle on a saddle block, low fence or sawhorse to provide firm support while you clean the saddle. Remove all the detachable parts such as the stirrups and lay them out on a clean dry surface.
Wipe the saddle down with soft cloths. Remove all dirt, dust and other debris, especially in the stitching and between metal parts and the leather. Clean the detachable parts also.
Wash the saddle and all the parts with a small amount of water and a good saddle soap. Work up a lather with the soft bristle brush and clean both sides of the leather completely. Rinse with plain water and dry the saddle with absorbent cloths as quickly and completely as possible.
Apply the saddle oil with a soft, clean, dry cloth, following the grain of the leather. Do the same with the detached pieces of the saddle. Be careful not to apply too much oil because it can break down the natural fibers of the leather.
If the leather is very dry, use 100 percent neatsfoot oil; otherwise, there are several reputable saddle oils available. Do not apply to the rough side of the leather. Let the oil remain on the saddle for at least an hour, preferably longer, before thoroughly wiping off any excess.
For more effectiveness, apply a second coat at least 30 minutes after removing the first coat. A good quality oil penetrates deeply and easily, and will bring out the natural luster of the leather without streaking, blotching or staining.
Condition the saddle with more soft cloths and saddle butter or wax dressing after removing the excess oil. Leave the saddle in a clean, dry area until the next use.