How to Clean Horse Tack

Keeping horse tack clean is a job that must be repeated after almost every ride. Even if you don't ride in the mud, horses sweat and have dirt on them, causing a build-up on your tack. Cleaning the tack preserves it and keeps it looking like new.

Instructions

1. Remove all of the hardware such as the bit, buckles, screws or other metal pieces. These are cleaned separately with warm soap and water and a metal polish.

2. Brush off excess dirt and dust with a stiff bristled brush. This removes all of the loose debris from the bridle, reins, breast collar, saddle and saddle pad. Leather or nylon tack can be brushed the same way.

3. Rinse very dirty tack with a water hose and a mild soap. Use a soft brush to scrub the tack and then rinse with clear water. Allow leather to dry only partially before oiling it.

4. Oil leather tack with a conditioner to keep it supple and in good condition. Nylon tack can be scrubbed with a brush, soap and water. Rinse it out completely and allow it to dry.

Tips & Warnings

• Very dirty nylon tack can be soaked in a bucket with soap and warm water. You may also put it inside a pillow case and put it into a washing machine. Make sure to brush off all of the horse hair first so it doesn't get into the machine.

• Don't use soap or oil on saddle parts made of rough-out leather. Oils and soaps make the rough-out smooth and discolored.