Leather tack should be cleaned regularly (ideally, after each use) to remove sweat and dirt and to keep it supple. There is a plethora of cleaning products on the market today, ranging from the old standbys of glycerine soap, castile soap, and oil soap, to newer products that condition, clean, and waterproof at the same time. To give your leather tack a thorough cleaning, remove any removable parts from the saddle, such as the girth and stirrup leathers. Take the bridle, breastplate, martingale, and halter apart. Remove dust with a dry towel or caked-on dirt with a brush. Water and soap on top of dust or dirt is a sure recipe for muck! Use a damp sponge and your favourite soap to clean both sides of the leather, using back-and-forth strokes. The sponge should not lather; if it does, you’re probably using too much water. Wipe off excess soap with a clean damp cloth before applying oil or conditioner.

When you’re done, the leather should appear clean, but not wet. Keep your leather tack in a cool, dry place, rather than a hot, humid room. (A small dehumidifier can help in the tack room during the summer months, or place dessicant in a smaller storage area such as a locker.) If you must store it away for an extended period of time, place it in a cloth bag to help prevent mould or mildew.

Condition new leather tack with a product especially made for this purpose and recommended by the maker. Your local tack shop carries a wide variety of oils, waxes, and conditioners. Condition both sides of the leather with the product of your choice; work it into the leather with your warm hands to help the pores absorb it. Repeat this treatment when necessary (usually every couple of months, or any time your tack gets wet from water. rain, or your horse’s sweat). Always make sure your leather is clean and dry before you oil or condition it.

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