Proper maintenance of your equestrian equipment is essential to extend its lifespan and performance. In this blog, we explain how to best care for your Kentucky Horsewear products. Although this guide is specifically designed for Kentucky items, the tips can also be useful for other brands.
Wash at 30 degrees
Many Kentucky products can be safely machine washed at 30°C. These include:
Halters and lead ropes:
Remove any dirt or sand before washing for a more effective clean.
Fly veils:
Can be washed without issue.
Fly masks:
Always close the zipper before washing to prevent damage to the mask or your washing machine.
Girths with artificial sheepskin lining:
The liner can easily be removed and washed to eliminate dirt and sweat.
Half pads:
Make sure to remove the memory foam insert before washing to protect it.
Saddle pads:
Regular cleaning helps prevent chafing. For best results, remove all hair from the lining before washing.
Bandages and leg protectors:
Ensure the Velcro straps are fastened properly and place them in a laundry bag to prevent tangling.
Rugs:
If needed, apply a fluorocarbon treatment after washing to restore water-repellent properties.
Important Aftercare
Always allow all items to dry completely before reuse. This not only extends the life of your gear but also helps prevent mold growth and unpleasant odors.
Pro tip: For embellished items like halters, fly veils, and saddle pads—especially those with crystals or decorative stones—turn them inside out and place them in a laundry bag before washing. This protects delicate details from damage or loss and also helps safeguard your washing machine.
Hand wash
Some items, such as horse toys, are best cleaned by hand to keep them in top condition. It's important to pay special attention to cleaning these items, as horse toys tend to be heavily used and can get dirty quickly. Hand washing provides a gentler method that helps preserve the materials—especially for toys with delicate fabrics or fillings.
Use warm water and a mild soap, and make sure to rinse thoroughly to remove any soap residue that could cause irritation to your horse. Allow the toy to air dry completely before giving it back to your horse.
Kentucky Tack Cleaner & Boots Cleaner
For items made of artificial leather, such as leather halters and girths, the Kentucky Tack Cleaner is the perfect solution.
We also offer the Kentucky Boots Cleaner, specially designed to add shine to your Kentucky tendon boots made of (T)PU. Simply spray the product onto the boots and wipe them down with a dry cloth. This will leave your boots looking as good as new - clean, shiny, and ready to impress!
Conclusion
Proper maintenance is essential for every Kentucky product to ensure a longer lifespan and optimal performance. Do you have questions about how to care for a specific item? Feel free to contact us—at Emmers Equestrian, we're always happy to help!
