Saddle Care
Proper saddle care is important for the life and preservation of your leather saddle. Here are a few tips and tricks to keep your saddle in tip top shape for years.
Cleaning your saddle
Before cleaning if possible, place your saddle on a saddle stand.
Wipe off all surface dirt with a damp cloth or sponge.
Use your favorite glycerine saddle soap with the least amount of water possible to create a good lather.
Clean entire saddle, removing attachments if needed (they can be cleaned separately), and you can use a soft bristled toothbrush to clean the tooling on the saddle and other small areas that are hard to reach.
After cleaning the entire saddle thoroughly, rinse off with warm water using as little water as possible, but be sure to get all of the soap off.
Let your saddle dry naturally, but keep it out of the sun.
After your saddle is completely dry, a leather conditioner can be applied if desired.
Saddles should be cleaned every couple of months or so if used every day. Less used saddles should be cleaned a few times a year.
Between cleanings, use a damp cloth to wipe off surface dust and dirt.
Storing your saddle
Store your saddle out of the sun in a dry area.
Saddle covers are great to keep dust and dirt off your saddle. If you don't have a saddle cover, a old sheet or something similar will work just fine. Never use plastic to cover your saddle as it can cause your saddle to mildew.
If you travel a lot, a padded saddle carrier comes in handy and helps protect your saddle.
Squeaky Saddle?
Baby powder does the trick. Pour it into every nook and cranny you can find. It won't hurt your saddle and it squashes the squeak!