Shine On the Saddle: The Aussie's Go-To Guide for Leather Tack Care at Home

Loz
Sep 19
3 min read

Updated: Sep 26

Essential Guide to Cleaning Leather Horse Tack at Home

Maintaining your leather horse tack is crucial for its longevity and performance. Regular cleaning not only keeps your equipment looking great but also prevents wear and tear, especially in the varying Australian seasons. This guide will walk you through a step-by-step process for cleaning your leather tack at home, along with product recommendations tailored for the Australian climate.

Why Clean Your Leather Tack?

Leather tack is an investment, and proper care can extend its life significantly. Dirt, sweat, and moisture can lead to damage if not addressed regularly. Cleaning your tack helps to:

Prevent mold and mildew growth (this can permanently damage the leather!).
Avoid skin irritations for your horse.
Maintain the leather's suppleness and strength.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Leather Horse Tack

What You Will Need

Bucket of warm water
Soft sponge or cloth
Toothbrush
Leather cleaner (pH-balanced)
Leather conditioner
Soft brush (optional)
Tack cleaning gloves (optional)
Drying area/rack

Step 1: Gather Your Tack

Collect all the tack you plan to clean, including saddles, bridles, and reins. Make sure to check for any loose parts or damage that may need attention and get these repaired ASAP!

Step 2: Dust and Brush Off Dirt

Using a soft brush, gently remove any dust, dirt, or debris from the surface of the tack. Pay special attention to crevices and areas where dirt tends to accumulate (use a toothbrush for the harder to get to areas).

Step 3: Prepare the Cleaning Solution

Fill a bucket with warm water and add a small amount of pH-balanced leather cleaner. Mix it gently to create a soapy solution.

Step 4: Clean the Tack

Using a soft sponge or cloth, dip it into the cleaning solution and wring it out so it’s damp but not dripping. Wipe down each piece of tack, ensuring you clean all surfaces, including straps and buckles. Rinse the sponge frequently to avoid spreading dirt.

Step 5: Rinse with Clean Water

After cleaning, use a separate cloth dampened with clean water to wipe away any soap residue. This step is important to prevent any buildup that could damage the leather.

Step 6: Dry Thoroughly

You don't need to remove excess moisture from the tack as it will absorb it, adding extra life into your gear. However, it is recommended to let the leather air dry away from direct sunlight or heat sources, which can cause it to crack.

Step 7: Condition the Leather

Once the tack is completely dry, apply a leather conditioner to keep the leather supple and protected. Use a clean cloth or soft sponge to apply the conditioner evenly, following the manufacturer's instructions.

Step 8: Store Properly

After cleaning and conditioning, store your tack in a cool, dry place. Use tack bags or covers to protect it from dust and moisture.

Product Recommendations for Australian Seasons

When selecting products for cleaning and conditioning your tack, consider the Australian climate, which can be harsh on leather. Here are some recommendations:

Leather Cleaners

Effax Leather Cleaner: A gentle, effective cleaner that removes dirt and sweat without drying out the leather.
Oakwoods Saddle Soap: A pH-balanced cleaner that is great for maintaining the quality of leather in hot and humid conditions.

Leather Conditioners

Passier Leather Conditioner: This conditioner is perfect for keeping leather supple and protected against the Australian sun.
Oakwoods Leather Conditioner or Balm: A versatile product that offers moisture and protection, ideal for varying weather conditions.
Neatsfoot Oil: For a deeper penetrating condition. Be mindful as this works best on certain leathers, so do check your tack manufacturing website for whether this is suitable.

Additional Tips

Clean your tack after every ride to prevent sweat buildup.
Inspect your tack regularly for signs of wear or damage.
At least annually, get your tack professionally cleaned and re-sealed to further enhance and increase the longevity of your beautiful gear (some can even re-dye if it needs help to look like new again). There is one place in the Canberra region that offers this service, you can book directly here:

Tack Rejuvenation: Clean, Re-seal & Condition

Buy Now

Needing to prepare your items for sale or they are need of a serious restoration? Then, there is one place in the Canberra region that offers a professorial re-colouring service (either the same colour or darker). You can book in here:

Tack Restoration: Clean, Re-Colour, Re-seal & Condition