A properly cared for saddle can last a lifetime. Here, we give a brief overview of caring for your saddle.

Caring For Your Saddle

The Flexible Delrin Panels
The Delrin flexible panels need to be cared for appropriately to ensure they are able to flex accurately and properly. The panels and inserts need to be oiled frequently depending on how much you ride your saddle. The mounts that hold your flexible panels to your saddle are manufactured from steel or hardened steel. To prevent rusting of the mounts, WD-40 should be applied in moderation. It is also important to oil the washers and mounts; we recommend 3-In-One oil. While caring for your panels, make sure you oil all four mounts and the panels. Upon completion of the above steps, flex the panels to guarantee the even distribution of the oil.

Cleaning Rule of Thumb
Cleaning your saddle is an important role in expanding its life. There are many factors that cause your leather to harden and/or crack: sweat, dirt, and not enough moisture. Leather is a robust, sturdy material that requires frequent care to remain that way. The rule of thumb is to clean your saddle at least every three months or more as needed.

Cleaning Your Saddle
Seek out a safe location to clean your saddle and place it on your stand. To begin cleaning you will want to remove dust and dirt with a dry, soft cloth or rag. If your saddle needs quick cleaning, water will do the trick. If your saddle needs a deeper cleansing, a bar of glycerin soap and some water work very well. Begin washing your saddle one section at a time, front and back. Areas that touch your horse such as stirrup leathers, the back of the fenders, and all straps need extra cleaning. For those hard to reach areas and crevices, a soft bristled brush works efficiently. Next, rinse off all the soap with the least amount of water as possible using a rag or sponge. Now you want to let your saddle dry out, using a fan is acceptable. It is recommended that you DO NOT set your saddle in the sun or near heat while it is drying.

Conditioning Your Saddle
After your saddle has completely dried, it is time to condition it. Many of the food oils such as peanut and olive oil work well for conditioning. These food oils have a tendency to darken the leather, so you will want to test in an inconspicuous area. We recommend Aussie Conditioner which contains bees wax made by The Fiebings Company. Aussie leaves your saddle leather soft and supple.

Storing Your Saddle
When storing your saddle, find an environment that is neither hot nor dry. Hot temperatures cause the leather to dry and damp environments cause the leather to stretch out of shape or possibly mold. Next you will want to place your saddle on a stand that is tall and broad. It is important that your stirrups are not dragging the ground because this can cause the fenders to become warped. The stand should be wide enough to properly support the skirts. If a stand is too narrow, your saddle could curl. After placing your saddle on your stand of choice, check everything over. Make sure your skirts are sitting properly and all of your strings/straps are hanging down beside the saddle. We recommend you cover your saddle with a sheet or a commercial saddle cover. Refrain from using plastic as a cover, because plastic holds in moisture and will cause your saddle to mold.
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