How to Repair a Leather Saddle

Leather saddles need proper care to prevent them from becoming cracked. Cracked leather easily tears and breaks, especially when weight is placed on stirrups. Because saddles are exposed to the sun, they dry out frequently. Horseback riders should keep their leather care products on hand to clean and condition their cracked leather. Repair the leather before any show to ensure safe riding and a functional saddle.

Things You'll Need

  • Cloth
  • Glycerin-based saddle soap
  • Sponge
  • Toothpick
  • Leather oil
  • Leather conditioner
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Instructions

    • 1

      Pull the stirrups off the saddle. You may need to unhook the stirrups if it is too difficult to pull the stirrups from behind the saddle bar. Wipe them down with a soft cloth any dirt, hair or debris. Flip the saddle over to remove any hair that may have become attached.

    • 2

      Wet a sponge and apply glycerin-based saddle soap. You can get this soap at a tack shop. Move the sponge in circular motions across the seat, skirt and saddle flap. If you have a western saddle that has a suede seat, avoid washing off this area.

    • 3

      Clean the stirrups with the sponge and soap. Lift out any deposited dirt in crevices and in the stirrup holes with a toothpick wrapped in a soft cloth. Allow the saddle to dry overnight.

    • 4

      Use an oil like pure neatsfoot oil if you want to darken the saddle's leather. If you want the saddle to retain its color, use a leather conditioner. Squeeze the leather conditioner into a soft cloth and rub down the saddle. Make sure that you apply a thin layer to the top and bottom of the saddle. Clean your stirrups with the leather conditioner.

    • 5

      Spray a cleaning product like Windex on a paper towel and clean off all the metal on your saddle like the stirrup irons and the stirrup bar. Hook the stirrups together and slide them under the stirrups bar. Place a saddle cover over your saddle.