How to Shine Saddle Leather
Your saddle is one of the most important investments you make as a rider. Depending on your discipline, it's not uncommon to spend several thousand dollars on tack. Proper care ensures your saddle stays in good condition for many years. If you are showing hunters or equitation, it's also a good idea to have your tack as clean as possible before you come under the judge's scrutiny. Appearance is a significant factor in these classes.
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Things You'll Need
- Water
- Rags
- Bucket
- Sponge
- Stiff brush
- Glycerin soap
- Toothbrush
- Animal-based oil
- Metal compound
Instructions
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1
Remove all dirt and dust with a slightly damp rag.
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2
Fill a bucket with warm water.
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3
Soak a sponge in the water then wring it out.
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4
Wipe down your saddle with the sponge. This helps open the pores of the leather to make it more receptive to oils. If you have suede on your saddle, do not get it wet. It could stain. Use a stiff, dry brush to remove any dirt from suede areas.
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5
Lather your sponge or rag with saddle soap (there are many varieties available --- the most common is glycerin soap).
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6
Work the lather into your saddle, making sure to get all the creases, underside, etc. Remember to avoid any suede. You can use an old toothbrush for hard-to-reach places. While you are cleaning, check for any signs of trouble: loose stitching, torn billets, shifted padding, broken tree, etc.
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Wipe off any extra suds with a clean rag.
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Use an animal-based oil product to help make the leather soft and supple. Work with small quantities at a time. You can use a rag or even your fingers to work the oil into the leather.
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9
Give the oil a few minutes to soak in. Use a clean, dry, soft rag to buff the leather and bring out its luster. Use a quick, small circular movement and work in a pattern over your saddle.
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10
Polish any metal with a metal compound. This small touch helps your saddle look like new.
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Tips & Warnings
Not all leather can be brought to a shine; it depends on the type of leather and how it was cured and treated. If you have scratches or mars you are trying to hide, a small amount of shoe polish in the matching color can help --- if the marks are not very deep.
Always keep a rag and a spray bottle of leather cleaner in your tack area. After every ride, give your tack a quick wiping down. It doesn't take very long, and it helps preserve your tack and maintain its looks for a long time.
References
- Photo Credit saddle image by Henryk Olszewski from Fotolia.com
