The Ultimate Equestrian Washing Guide: Breeches, Shirts and Saddle Pads
Equestrian clothing, such as breeches and saddle pads, plays a crucial role in ensuring comfort and safety while riding. However, after intense riding sessions, these garments can become soiled and sweaty, leading to unpleasant odors and potential damage if not cleaned properly. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the essential steps to wash your equestrian clothing effectively, preserving their quality and extending their lifespan. Let's dive in!
Sort and Prepare Your Laundry:
Before starting the washing process, sort your equestrian clothing by color and fabric type. This step ensures that dark and light-colored items won't bleed onto each other and prevents any damage to delicate materials. Be sure to remove any extra horsehair and debris from the clothing before tossing them into the washing machine.
Read the Care Label:
Every piece of equestrian clothing comes with a care label that provides valuable information about the fabric and specific washing instructions. Follow these guidelines carefully to avoid any unintentional damage to the garments. We created our care labels with much thought.
Pre-Treat Stains:
Breeches and saddle pads can accumulate tough stains from mud, grass, or horse sweat. Pre-treat any visible stains with a stain remover or a mixture of baking soda and water before placing them in the washing machine. Gently rub the stained areas to ensure the solution penetrates the fibers effectively.
Choose the right Detergent:
Using the appropriate detergent is crucial to maintain the integrity of your equestrian clothing. Opt for a mild, phosphate-free detergent designed for delicate fabrics. Avoid harsh chemicals, bleach, or fabric softeners, as they can break down the fibers and reduce the clothing's durability.
Washing Saddle Pads
Saddle pads usually absorb a significant amount of sweat and dirt. To clean them thoroughly, rinse off excess dirt before placing them in the washing machine. Wash saddle pads separately to prevent them from tangling with other clothing items.
To even take better care of them place them into a bedsheet for example so the wholes of the washing machine will not damage your saddlepad.
Wash them inside out (pearls on the inside) not higher than 30 degrees, no softener.
Washing Breeches & Shirts
For breeches, turn them inside out before washing to protect the outer surface and preserve any decorative elements. Use the delicate or hand wash cycle with cold water. Avoid overcrowding the washing machine, as it can lead to inadequate cleaning and unnecessary wear and tear.
Wash on 30 degrees, no softener, for dark breeches and shirts black laundry detergent and for shirts with white details (e.g. silhouette shirt) only white detergent! Do not use color detergent for our clothing.
Drying:
Air drying is the best method for drying equestrian clothing. Hang breeches and saddle pads on a clothesline or lay them flat on a clean, dry surface. Direct sunlight can fade colors, so opt for a shaded area or indoors. Avoid using a dryer, as the heat can cause shrinkage or damage to the fabrics.
Maintenance Tips:
To extend the lifespan of your equestrian clothing, consider the following maintenance tips:
a. Regularly inspect and mend any loose threads or small tears to prevent further damage.
b. Store your equestrian clothing in a clean, dry place away from direct sunlight and potential rodent infestations.
c. Wash your saddle pads only when needed. "Overwashing" damages the fabrics and makes the life of all your equestrian wear shorter.
Conclusion:
Taking care of your equestrian clothing, particularly breeches and saddle pads, is essential to ensure a comfortable and safe riding experience. By following these simple steps and using the right washing techniques, you can maintain the quality of your clothing and prolong their lifespan significantly. With regular cleaning and proper care, your equestrian clothing will be ready to support you during your thrilling rides for years to come. Happy riding!