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Horse saddles are essential pieces of equipment for horse owners, and they require specialized maintenance to extend their lifespan. Not only will they keep you comfortable, but they’ll also keep your horse comfortable while you’re riding. Use the following tips to help you get the most use out of your investment for many years to come.

How to Properly Care for a Saddle

1. Keep It Clean & Conditioned

Saddles will get wet, whether you’re riding in the rain or if it’s through contact with a horse’s sweat. When this happens, you should clean and condition the equipment as soon as possible.

Use a shop vacuum to remove dirt so it isn’t ground into the leather. Wipe away any excess grime with a dry, soft cloth. Unbuckle every clasp or buckle on the bridle and clean all areas using products specifically made for cleaning and conditioning leather tack.

Regular cleaning materials, including baby wipes, can damage the material. Never use a wet rag since water can damage leather. Make sure your cloth or sponge is only damp and not saturated.

2. Use Saddle Pads

saddle lebanon ohioWhile pads provide cushion for the rider and protect the horse’s back, they also protect the saddle. Pads are placed between the seat and a horse’s back, preventing the equipment from coming into contact with a horse’s sweat. All-purpose pads fit most saddles, including English models.

3. Keep It Safely Stored

These seats should be stored in a dry place, such as a tack room, and away from heat and sunlight. An appropriate storage rack is also necessary. Saddle panels can develop lumps and bumps when placed on a wrong-sized rack.

Choose a material that doesn’t maintain moisture condensation, such as wood. If your stand is made of metal, place towels or the saddle pad beneath the seat to protect it from imprinting on the panels and denting the flocking. Choose a rack that is the same length of the gullet and apply a cover to discourage dirt and moisture buildup when it’s not in use.

 

Whether you need a new saddle, pads, or cover, you will find a variety of tack products at Liberty Western in Lebanon, OH. This riding store has been providing the latest in Western fashion, including cowboy boots, hats, and jeans, to customers for 20 years. They have an extensive inventory of riding boots, work boots, cowboy hats, and belt buckles. They also offer horse and pet food. Call (513) 933-0900 to ask about available products, or visit them online to learn more about this one-stop shop.

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