A leather saddle or bridle lasts for decades if you keep it clean and supple. Sweat, dust and mud dry out the leather, making it hard and prone to cracking, especially at buckles and stitching. Here you will find products to clean and feed leather.
Two steps: cleaning and feeding
1. Cleaning. After every ride, wipe sweat and hair off the leather. For a thorough clean, use Excellent Leather Cleaner Spray (50 or 500 ml) or a classic saddle soap, such as the 330 gram bar with lemon scent. Work with a damp sponge, not a wet one, and undo buckles to get the inside surfaces too.
2. Feeding. Once the leather is dry, apply a thin layer of conditioner. Choose between Excellent Leather Dressing Natural (500 ml or 1 litre) and the Leather & Saddle Balm, in natural or black. The black balm keeps dark leather its colour.
The Bürsten Walter leather brush helps to work balm in and get seams clean.
Balm or dressing?
| Product | When |
|---|---|
| Liquid dressing | large surfaces such as a saddle, or leather that needs to absorb a lot |
| Balm | targeted application on straps and bridle |
| Saddle soap | quick cleaning with light conditioning in between |
Points to note
Never dry wet leather by the heater or in full sun: it shrinks and hardens. Do not use too much product, because an overloaded layer attracts dirt and makes leather limp. On new or light leather, test an inconspicuous spot first, because some products darken it. Store your saddle on a saddle rack, so it keeps its shape; you will find one in stable and field.
Related: grooming supplies and hoof care. Back to horse care.
Frequently asked questions
When should you condition a saddle?
That depends on use and weather. After a wet ride, or when the leather feels dull and dry, it is time; with daily riding, many riders do it every few weeks.
Can I also use saddle soap on a leather headcollar?
Yes, saddle soap is suitable for all smooth leather on horse equipment. Suede and nubuck need different care.
Why a black balm?
On black or dark brown leather, a coloured balm fills in small bare patches, so the leather stays even.