Looking after your used leather saddle: The ultimate guide

Check out our advice to keep your used saddle in tip-top condition!

Your saddle deserves your full attention to retain all the qualities of the leather and make sure it stands the test of time. Regular care using the right products is key to keeping it looking good, supple and comfortable.

This blog post gives you all our tips to take the best care of your saddle.

Pampering your saddle: step by step
Caring for your old leather saddle
Cleaning your old leather saddle

Why pamper your saddle?

Leather is a living material that actually ‘breathes’. By looking after your leather saddle, you’ll prevent cracks appearing, tears and possible injury to your horse.

Mud, sand, dirt, dust and sweat can all damage leather. But with regular saddle care you can tackle these external threats as this will help your leather saddle retain all its qualities.

Saddle care: Step-by-step

When you take delivery of your used saddle

A saddle that has been well-maintained from new shouldn’t hide any nasty surprises. Has your used saddle been oiled recently by the previous owner? If so, we advise you wait a year before oiling it again.

Next, follow our steps to keep your saddle in mint condition.

Daily routine: Cleaning

After each ride, wipe down your saddle with a cloth to remove any dirt. Then take some glycerine saddle soap.

Apply the soap with a wet sponge and rub softly if needed. Rinse your sponge well each time you use it.

Top tip from our experts: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush for stubborn spots or stains. It won’t damage to your leather saddle.

Regular care: Moisturising

– Leather conditioner:

If you ride very often, apply the conditioner once or twice a month after thoroughly cleaning your saddle. Use a sponge or a clean cloth to spread the conditioner over the clean and dry saddle.

– Leather oil:

Leather oil keeps your saddle leather supple but please take great care when using it.
Over-oiling your saddle can lead to:

• the dye seeping
•  the leather stretching

That’s why we recommend oiling your saddle once or twice a year after using it for the first twelve months. For a more even finish, try applying the oil with a clean paintbrush. It’s easier too.

Our leather oil comes in two sizes of bottle. Click here to find out more.

Our saddle-makers’ top tips

Smart storage

– Damp is danger: Best store your used saddle in a dry place. If dampness is present, clean your saddle more often with our saddle soap and apply some conditioner.

– Stay out of the sun: Don’t leave your saddle in direct sunlight. If your saddle gets wet, leave it to dry in the fresh air away from all sources of heat.

To keep your used saddle in mint condition, we also advise you protect it with a corresponding saddle cover.

Over-oiling

– Have you applied too much oil? Rinse your saddle with warm water, apply soap and rinse again with clean water. Leave it to dry for 24 hours then apply some leather conditioner.

Cracked leather

If your saddle leather is cracked, clean it thoroughly with a cloth and apply some leather oil to rehydrate it.

What products should you choose to care for your used saddle?

Using the right products is crucial.

Our Antarès products have been specially designed for aniline leather. If you buy other brands, make sure they match the finish on your saddle.

Always test new products on a less obvious part of your saddle and wait 24 hours to see the result.

Cleaning an old leather saddle

To breathe new life into an old leather saddle, first run it under some water. Then brush it gently with a soft-bristled brush and leave it to dry for 24 hours.

Now you’re ready to oil it to soften up the leather.
Finally, get into a regular cleaning routine so that the saddle gradually regains its original appearance. 

If you follow these guidelines your used leather saddle can have a new lease of life. If you take care of your riding tack it’ll repay you in comfort and longevity.

Visit our special webpage to find out about all our leather care products.

You too can set the standards with second-hand tack! 🙂