Step-by-step tack cleaning guide

Cleaning your tack might not be your fave horsey job, but it’s sooo important! Find out why, and how to make your pony’s kit sparkle with our guide.

Why is tack cleaning important?

There’s more to tack cleaning than just making it look good for show days. When riding, it will pick up grease and dirt that, if not removed, can rub and cause irritation to your pony’s skin, as well as damaging the leather.

Regularly cleaning your tack will help it last longer, too. Using a special conditioner can help nourish the leather, and inspecting your pony’s kit for damage, such as loose stitching or sharp edges on the bit, means you can keep it in check so it doesn’t fall apart while riding – disaster!

Did you know?

You can buy lots of different tack cleaners and conditioners. Some of them have a 2-in-1 formula that makes cleaning quick and easy!

Cleaning the bridle

1. Take your bridle apart by undoing all the buckles – remember you’ll need to put it back together so it’s worth taking note so you can do it in reverse later!
2. Rinse the bit under a tap or pop it in a bucket of water to soak – this will help release any dirt that’s stuck to it!
3. Using a cloth dipped in warm water and rung out, wipe over your bridle to remove the grease and dirt. Don’t get the leather too wet as this could cause damage.
4. Grab your tack cleaner and apply according to the instructions – some will require water, but others can be applied directly!
5. Now the tricky part, put it back together!
6. Loop the throatlash through the reins so they don’t drag on the floor and ta-dah – you have a super-clean bridle!

TOP TIP

Rinse off your bit after each ride and wipe it dry with a towel. This will help prevent the gunk sticking and reduce scale build-up.

TOP TIP

While you’ve got cleaning kit out, why not give your boots a polish? They need looking after, too!

Cleaning the saddle

1. Place your saddle on a special stand and remove the stirrups, leathers, girth and saddlepad.
2. Like you did with the bit, rinse your stirrups off and leave them to dry. You can use a stiff brush to get rid of the mud!
3. Wipe over your saddle, girth and stirrup leathers with a cloth using warm water. Remember to check for damage!
4. Apply saddle soap or conditioner – you might need to buff it with a clean cloth to get the ultimate shine!
5. Re-attach your stirrups and leathers. Put on your saddle cover, if you have one, and place your girth and saddlepad on top to store it away neatly in the tack room!

Did you know?

If your tack gets very wet from riding in the rain, clean it as soon as possible, otherwise the leather might dry up and start to crack.

TOP TIP

If you have a synthetic saddle or girth, don’t use leather soap on it! Instead, use a soft brush to remove hairs and then wipe it over with a damp sponge.

TOP TIP

Ensure you wash your pony’s saddlepad regularly as hair, sweat and dirt build up and can cause irritation or even sore areas.

Did you know?

If you give your tack a quick wipe over to remove the worst of the dirt after each ride, it will make the deep cleaning process much easier!

TOP TIP

Scheduling a deep clean for your tack will help you keep on top of it – why not set a reminder in your phone?

Did you know?

You can buy special bridle and saddle bags to store your tack in. They’re super handy for travelling and will help keep your kit clean.

Pay attention

Remember that it’s important to carefully check over your tack when cleaning it. Look out for…

• sharp edges or uneven wear on the bit
• loose stitching
• uneven thickness of the saddle’s panels
• dried, cracked leather
• stretching on the stirrup leathers

It’s best to get these problems sorted as soon as you notice them so speak to an adult for advice.