The Western Saddle Fitter's Tack Care Guide (and favorite products)

While The Western Saddle Fitter does not focus on tack cleaning, it is a regular part of my day-to-day and an important part of leather tack ownership. Well maintained leather lasts longer and will stay in better shape for you for years to come (it aids with resale value, should you find yourself needing to sell your tack, too!).

From cleaning and prepping consignment saddles to supporting saddle fit clients with quality cleaning and reconditioning services, I've had a chance to develop a regular tack care routing and try a product or two over the years. I'm excited to share the results of my learning and experiences with you here today.

MY REGULAR TACK CARE PROCESS

DAILY:

Wipe down all tack with saddle soap or tack cleaning and conditioning wipes.

Wash or brush down all saddle pads to remove dirt, hair, and debris that can rub your horse's back with build up. If you brush down your pads, use a stiff brush but not so stiff that it will snag at the material.

Clean your bit in a bucket or with bit wipes.

WEEKLY:

Clean and condition all tack with cleaner and either this conditioner or this one; not wipes.

Clean any suede with suede cleaner, not traditional leather cleaner.

Polish any hardware with cleaner and tarnish remover. I like the wipes for regular use. They're easier on the leather than a lot of the chemicals if you do happen to accidentally get some on it. If you know what material your hardware is made of, use a specific cleaner for it. This one is for more general use.

SPRING/FALL (TWICE A YEAR)

I like to do more of a deep clean on my tack. I pull it all apart and ensure I get in all the nooks and crannies.

First I soften any leather that has become stiff with oil. My favorite is Neatsfoot oil, but it can darken leather so if you're wanting something that will have less of an impact on your leather color, or for lighter leather, I recommend Otter Wax oil.

I also protect and seal my tack at this time of year, to protect it from rain/snow in the winter and from dust/sun in the summer.

And that is The Western Saddle Fitter's tack care routine.

Summed up:

*All links and images will direct you to Amazon. I am not an Amazon affiliate, but this is the most centralized place I knew of to link from. I highly recommend checking out your local tack shop / preferred online realtors to see if they have any of the products you're interested in first.

Kristin Bowers, of The Western Saddle Fitter, is a mobile independent saddle fitter based in the Boise, Idaho metro area. She serves horses and riders throughout the Northwest through saddle fitting appointments, consignment sales, and educational opportunities.

You can reach out to her at thewesternsaddlefitter@gmail.com, 208.614.2466, or on social media (Facebook and Instagram).