Introduction: How to Clean an English Saddle

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Hi! do you have a saddle in desperate need of cleaning than this is the tutorial for you, enjoy!

Supplies

s a d d l e - s o a p

L e a t h e r - c o n d i t i o n e r

L e a t h e r - b a l m

s i l v e r - p o l i s h

S p o n g e

B o w l - o f - w a t e r

Step 1: Saddle Soap

Wet a sponge and ring it out until it is slightly damp. rub it in the saddle soap and apply to the saddle rubbing the sponge in small circles. Let it dry.

Step 2: Leather Conditioner

I use Mondega liquid leather conditioner in a spray bottle, but if you are using it from a tin or a bottle look for steps below.

S p r a y : Spray onto your saddle and rub into the leather with you sponge then let it dry.

T i n : Rub sponge into the tin rub onto leather and then let it dry.

B o t t l e : squeeze onto the sponge and apply to saddle rubbing it into the leather let it dry.

Step 3: Leather Balm

Ok, this step is pretty much the same as the others, rub the sponge into the balm and then apply to leather this is pretty much just to shine it up and look all shiny, rub onto the saddle and let dry. It will be a little bit sticky so just don't touch it otherwise you can get fingerprints in the finish.

Step 4: Silver Polish (optional)

Ok, this step is optional so you can skip it if you want. If you have any silver logo's on your saddle (real silver) you can take some silver polish and use it to make you saddle makers logo shine! squeeze a drop of polish on your finger (make sure to shake it first!) and dab it onto the silver. Wait a minute for it to dry (it does not have to be fully dry just wait a minute for it to soak in) When it's ready you can take your sponge and wipe of the polish.

Step 5: Stirrup Leathers and Irons

repeat all the steps from before (except for the silver polish!) on the leathers you can take a soapy old toothbrush and scrub at the irons if you would like.

Step 6: Put on Your Cover

If you have a saddle cover (I would highly recommend one!) you can put it on now. It just like putting fuzzy socks on after a pedicure it seals in the moisture and keeps it looking great and dust-free!