Leather Saddle Clean and Care Step by Step

A leather saddle plays a big part in your everyday riding, whether you’re out hacking, training at home, or competing. To keep it looking smart and feeling good to ride in, regular care goes a long way. Saddles put up with a lot—sweat, mud, rain, dust, and daily wear—so giving yours a proper clean helps maintain its shape, comfort, and performance over time.

This step-by-step guide covers everything you need to know about looking after your leather saddle, from cleaning to conditioning to choosing the right products. We’ve also included answers to some of the most commonly asked questions from riders and horse owners alike.

Let’s get straight into it.

How do you clean a leather saddle?

Cleaning a leather saddle properly starts with removing loose dust and dirt. Use a soft brush or cloth to give it a quick wipe-down, then apply a saddle soap with a damp sponge. Work in circular motions, gently lifting sweat and grime without soaking the leather. Always wipe away any excess and let the saddle dry naturally—out of direct heat or sunlight.

Once dry, you can follow up with a conditioning balm to keep the leather soft and prevent it from drying out. The process doesn’t take long and makes a big difference to the feel and life of your saddle.

What’s the best product to clean a leather saddle?

We always recommend using products designed specifically for equestrian leather. They’re made to clean and protect without damaging stitching or drying out the hide.

Our leather care products contain natural ingredients, including natural oils, fats, and beeswax.

Kind to your tack and easy to use in day-to-day routines. Avoid household cleaners or wipes—they might seem handy, but often contain alcohol or ingredients that can ruin your leather saddle over time.

How often should you clean a leather saddle?

As a rule of thumb, a quick clean after each ride keeps things manageable. A deeper clean once a week works well if you're riding most days. If you're riding less often, you can get away with doing it monthly—just don’t leave it too long, especially in winter when dampness can settle in tack rooms.

It’s also worth giving your saddle a proper once-over before a big event or competition. No one likes scrambling to clean gear the night before. In short, as many times as you need to.

How do you stop a leather saddle from cracking?

Cracked leather is often caused by a lack of moisture and improper storage. Conditioning the saddle regularly is the easiest way to keep the leather fibres soft and flexible. Make sure to work conditioner into the seat, flaps, and girth straps—all areas that take the most strain.

Also, check the underside of your saddle. The panels and knee rolls need just as much care as the visible parts. Use a small amount of balm and rub it in gently with your hands or a soft cloth.

One of our Cavaletti riders, Jess, conditions her GP saddle every fortnight and swears it’s the reason it’s still in top shape after three seasons of use.

What’s the safest way to store a leather saddle?

Storage matters more than most people realise. Saddles left in damp, dark corners or exposed to direct heat can start to warp, crack, or even grow mould.

Store your saddle on a proper rack that supports the tree evenly. Keep it somewhere dry, ideally with good airflow, and avoid plastic covers, which can trap moisture. Instead, go for a breathable cotton saddle cover or leave it uncovered if the space is dust-free.

If you’re planning to leave the saddle unused for a while, give it a clean and light condition first. Then check on it every couple of weeks to make sure everything is still in good condition.

Need help checking fit or want to explore a different model? You can visit our Find a Fitter page to book a consultation or try a new saddle through our 14-day trial with no pressure.

How to clean your leather saddle: Step-by-step

1. Remove fittings
Take off stirrup leathers, irons, girths, and numnahs so you can get to every part of the saddle.

2. Dry wipe
Use a cloth or soft brush to remove hair, dust, and dry dirt.

3. Clean with soap
Apply leather soap with a damp sponge in small, circular motions. Don’t drench the saddle—just dampen the surface enough to lift grime.

4. Wipe and dry
Use a clean cloth to remove any residue and let the saddle dry naturally.

5. Condition
Once the saddle is dry, apply a small amount of leather balm. Rub it in gently, especially on high-contact areas. It should absorb easily and leave a smooth finish.

6. Optional polish
Buff with a dry cloth if you want a bit of shine.

The full clean can take as little as 15–20 minutes once you’re in the habit.

Why it matters

A clean saddle isn’t just about appearances. Dirt and sweat can harden leather, affect stitching, and even cause uneven pressure on your horse’s back. A leather saddle that’s looked after lasts longer, rides better, and is more comfortable for both horse and rider.

Plus, if you’re planning to resell or upgrade in the future, a saddle in good condition holds its value far better than one that’s dried out or neglected.

We’re here to support you

Looking after your leather saddle is one of the easiest ways to improve your riding experience. It protects the saddle’s shape, keeps your horse comfortable, and means fewer repairs (and headaches) down the line.

If you’re unsure about the current fit or want to try a different model altogether, you can explore our full range and request a 14-day trial. You can also book a fitting with one of our experienced professionals.

Have any questions? Just get in touch with the Cavaletti team—we’re always happy to help.

Leather Saddle Clean and Care Step by Step