How to Clean a Horse Bridle

Most horsemen have a thousand things to do other than clean their horse's bridle. But regularly cleaning your horse's bridle does more than just remove dirt, sand and dust. A clean and well-conditioned bridle will be easier to adjust, last longer and is less likely to break and crack.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Small bucket of warm water
• Clean rags
• Bar of saddle soap
• Small, round tack sponge
• Soft-bristle toothbrush
• Dental pick
• Metal polish
• Leather conditioner

1. Dip a clean sponge or rag into your bucket of warm water. Wring the rag or sponge out until it is only slightly moist, then wipe off all surface dust and dirt from your horse's bridle.
2. Rub the slightly damp tack sponge/rag over a bar of saddle soap until you form a little lather. Wipe the lather up and down your bridle, paying special attention to all straps, attachment areas and places where grime builds up.
3. Scrub gently, but persistently along the underside or flesh side of the bridle with a soft-bristled tooth brush. Since this side of bridle rubs against your horse's head it tends to have more build up on it.
4. Pick grime out of the buckle holes using a dental pick. A dental pick is also a great tool for removing dirt from the edges of buckles and you can scrape stubborn sweat and grime from the flesh side of leather using the flat edge of the pick.
5. Shine all buckles with your choice of metal polishes. In a circular motion rub the polish on all buckles and silver on your horse's bridle. Let it sit for a few minutes then use a clean, soft rag to buff the metal until it gleams. Never apply metal polish to your horse bit, unless it is specifically made for horse bits.
6. Remove the bit from your horse's bridle and clean it. There are several good methods to clean a bit. You can place it in your dishwasher, boil it in water for 10 minutes to remove obstinate grime and wipe it clean, or simply brush the bit until it is spotless it with a toothbrush and toothpaste. There are also a few metal polishes made especially for mouthpieces.
7. Massage an even layer of leather conditioner into the flesh side of your horse's bridle. The flesh side is more porous and will absorb the conditioner better. Apply a thinner coat to the top side of the leather. You can use your fingers or a tack sponge to rub the conditioner in.

Tips & Warnings

• Wiping down your bridle and bit everyday will keep it from getting crusty and give your equipment a longer life. Many spray on and liquid cleansers are great for everyday cleaning, but they tend to build up on your leather. Make sure you wipe any excess cleaner off before you put your tack away
• Most new bridles and saddles come with a coating of wax on them to protect the bridle while shipping.