Gather Your Saddle, Bridle and Headcollar (and any other leather items you have)!
- Stübben Saddle Soap (for that deep clean)
- Stübben Hamanol (for conditioning)
- Soft sponge or cloth
- Clean, dry towel
- A bucket of warm water, I always add a dash of washing up liquid
- A little brush, nail brush or toothbrush for stubborn spots
Clean First:
Start with a good clean! Dampen your sponge or cloth in warm soapy water, wring it out so it’s not dripping, and give your leather a good clean all over. This is also the time to check your tack for any signs of wear, breakage and that the stitching is in good order. The important areas to check are cheek pieces, reins, girth straps and stirrup leathers.
TIP: You can use a nail/toothbrush for any stubborn spots, especially around the stirrup bars or buckles or where areas of grease can build up.
Stübben Saddle Soap comes with a sponge in the pot, we don’t wash this sponge and leave it immersed in the product. If you add a few drops of water to the saddle soap and then rub a bit of Stübben Saddle Soap onto it. Gently work the soap into the leather with circular motions. Don’t rush—this is where the magic happens. Focus on the areas where the leather has the most build up (stirrups, reins, noseband, etc.).
Rinse & Wipe:
Once you’ve worked the soap into the leather, take a clean, damp cloth to wipe away any excess soap. This is key so the leather doesn’t dry out. You want the leather clean, not soaked. If the soap has frothed up due to your sponge being too wet, this is when you can remove the excess with your cloth.
Condition with Hamanol:
Time to pamper your tack! Hamanol is your best friend when it comes to softening and conditioning leather. We recommend you only use it once a month, as part of your tack cleaning routine. Using a clean, soft cloth, apply a small amount of Hamanol. Rub it gently into the leather with circular motions, paying extra attention to any areas that might be slightly more dry.
TIP: If you have any really well-worn leather, you can leave it overnight with a little extra Hamanol to let the leather soak it in for an even deeper conditioning.
Buff and Finish:
Grab a clean, dry cloth and buff your tack to a nice sheen, whilst removing any excess product. Not only does this bring out the shine, but it helps to condition the leather and restores its natural colour.
Let It Dry:
After cleaning and conditioning, let your tack dry naturally—never place it in direct sunlight or near heat sources (no heaters, please!). You should also follow this if you have been caught out in the rain. If you are lucky enough to have a heated tack room, this will also help you keep your tack in tiptop condition and keep the dreaded mould at bay.
And boom, you’re done! Your tack is ready for action, soft, shiny, and ready to make a good impression at your yard.
A little TLC for your leather goes a long way. You’ll keep your tack looking gorgeous while helping it last for years. Now, go show off your polished tack the next time you ride!
