How to Clean a Felt Saddle Pad: Pro Secrets for Like-New Results

Cleaning felt saddle pads properly extends their life and keeps your horse comfortable during rides. As an equestrian with over 15 years of experience, I’ve tried numerous methods to maintain my saddle pads, and I’m sharing the most effective techniques I’ve discovered. Did you know that 78% of saddle fit issues stem from dirty or misshapen pads?  Let me guide you through an effective process on how to clean a felt saddle pad which I use weekly to keep my felt pads in pristine condition, saving you time and money on replacements.

Why Clean Your Felt Saddle Pad Regularly

Regular cleaning of felt saddle pads prevents skin irritation for your horse and extends the life of your equipment. Dirt, sweat, and hair buildup can create pressure points that cause discomfort during rides. When felt becomes matted with debris, it loses its shock-absorbing properties.

I make it a habit to inspect my pads after each ride. The dark patches of dried sweat and dirt you see are not just unsightly—they harbor bacteria that can lead to skin problems for your horse. Clean pads maintain their thickness and shape, ensuring proper saddle fit and weight distribution.

Materials Needed for Cleaning Felt Saddle Pads

How to Clean a Felt Saddle Pad: Pro Secrets for Like-New Results, Materials Needed for Cleaning Felt Saddle Pads

To clean your felt saddle pad effectively, gather these supplies:

I recommend using mild detergents specifically designed for wool or delicate fabrics. Regular laundry detergents contain harsh chemicals that can damage felt fibers. My personal favorite is Woolite Dark or specialized equestrian tack cleaners that maintain the integrity of the felt.

Step-by-Step Cleaning Process for Felt Saddle Pads

Remove Loose Dirt and Hair

Begin by taking your pad outside and removing as much loose hair and dirt as possible. I use a curry comb in circular motions across the entire pad. This loosens embedded dirt and hair that has worked its way into the felt fibers.

Next, use a vacuum with an upholstery attachment to suction away the loosened debris. Pay special attention to the areas that contact your horse’s back, as these accumulate the most sweat and dirt.

Spot Cleaning Techniques

For light cleaning between deep washes, spot cleaning works wonders. I dampen a clean cloth with a mixture of water and a small amount of mild detergent. Gently blot stained areas rather than rubbing, which can damage felt fibers.

For dried sweat marks, use a slightly more concentrated cleaning solution. Apply it to the affected area and press with a clean, damp cloth to lift the stain. Repeat until the cloth comes away clean.

Deep Cleaning Methods

When your pad needs thorough cleaning, fill a large basin or bathtub with lukewarm water—never hot, as it can shrink felt. Add a small amount of wool detergent according to package instructions.

Submerge your saddle pad completely and gently press down to allow the water to penetrate the felt. Avoid wringing or twisting, which damages the structure of the pad. Instead, press and squeeze gently to work the detergent through the fibers.

Allow the pad to soak for 15-20 minutes for heavily soiled areas. Use your fingers to work the detergent into particularly dirty spots with gentle pressure.

Hand Washing Instructions

After soaking, drain the dirty water and refill the basin with clean, lukewarm water. Press the pad gently to release detergent and dirt. Repeat this rinsing process until the water runs clear.

I typically rinse my pads three to four times to ensure all detergent is removed. Residual detergent can irritate your horse’s skin and attract more dirt.

Machine Washing Considerations

Some felt pads can be machine washed, but I only recommend this for certain types. Check the manufacturer’s instructions before attempting. If machine washing is approved, use the delicate cycle with cold water and minimal spinning.

Place the pad in a large mesh laundry bag to prevent excessive agitation. Never use fabric softeners as they coat the fibers and reduce the natural properties of the felt.

Stain Removal from Felt Saddle Pads

Common Stains Found on Saddle Pads

Different stains require different approaches. The most common stains on felt saddle pads include sweat, oil from your horse’s coat, mud, and manure.

Specific Techniques for Sweat Stains

Sweat stains respond well to a paste made from baking soda and water. I apply this paste to yellowed areas and let it sit for 30 minutes before rinsing thoroughly.

For stubborn sweat marks, a mixture of hydrogen peroxide and water (1:4 ratio) works effectively. Apply with a clean cloth, blot, and rinse thoroughly.

Methods for Removing Oil Stains

Oil stains require an absorbent powder like cornstarch or talcum powder. I sprinkle it generously over the stained area and let it sit overnight to draw out the oil. Brush away the powder and repeat if necessary.

For persistent oil stains, a small amount of dish soap can break down the oils. Apply directly to the stain, work in gently with your fingers, and rinse thoroughly.

Approaches for Mud and Dirt Stains

Allow mud to dry completely before attempting to clean it. Once dry, brush off as much as possible with a stiff brush. For remaining stains, a mixture of vinegar and water (1:3 ratio) helps dissolve mineral deposits left behind.

Drying Your Felt Saddle Pad Correctly

Air Drying Techniques

Proper drying prevents mildew and maintains the shape of your saddle pad. After rinsing, press excess water out gently—never wring or twist. Lay the pad flat on clean towels and press more towels on top to absorb moisture.

I place my pads outdoors in a shaded area with good airflow. Direct sunlight can fade colors and damage felt fibers. Flip the pad every few hours to ensure even drying.

What to Avoid When Drying Felt

Never use a clothes dryer for felt saddle pads. The heat and tumbling action will shrink and distort the pad. Also avoid hanging pads to dry, as the weight of the water will stretch the material.

Reshaping the Pad During Drying

As your pad dries, periodically check its shape. Gently reshape any areas that appear distorted. I run my hands over the surface to detect any lumps or uneven spots that need attention.

Drying Time Expectations

Expect your felt pad to take 24-48 hours to dry completely, depending on humidity and thickness. Ensure the pad is 100% dry before storing or using it again. Any remaining moisture can lead to mold growth or damage to your tack.

Maintaining Your Felt Saddle Pad Between Cleanings

How to Clean a Felt Saddle Pad: Pro Secrets for Like-New Results, Maintaining Your Felt Saddle Pad Between Cleanings

Daily Care Tips

After each ride, I turn my pad upside down and place it in a well-ventilated area to dry. This prevents moisture from being trapped against saddle trees or racks.

Use a soft brush to remove loose hair and dirt after the pad has dried completely. This simple step prevents buildup between deep cleanings.

Weekly Maintenance Routine

Once a week, give your pad a more thorough brushing with a curry comb. Check for any beginning signs of matting or compression in the felt fibers.

If you notice slight compression, use wool cards to gently lift and separate the fibers. This restores loft and cushioning properties to the felt.

Storage Recommendations

Store clean, dry saddle pads flat on a shelf rather than hanging them. If you must stack multiple pads, place acid-free tissue paper between them to maintain their shape.

Keep pads in a dry, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight. I store mine in cotton pillowcases to protect from dust without trapping moisture.

Brushing Techniques

When brushing felt pads, always work in the direction of the fibers. Start from the center and work outward with gentle, consistent strokes. Hard brushing can pull fibers and create thin spots.

Tips to Extend the Life of Your Felt Saddle Pad

How to Clean a Felt Saddle Pad: Pro Secrets for Like-New Results, Tips to Extend the Life of Your Felt Saddle Pad

Rotation System for Multiple Pads

I recommend owning at least two felt saddle pads and rotating their use. This gives each pad time to completely dry and recover its loft between rides.

Label your pads with dates to track usage and ensure even rotation. This system helps distribute wear and extends the life of all your pads.

Protective Measures During Use

Consider using a thin cotton sheet between your horse and the felt pad. This sacrificial layer catches most of the sweat and oil, protecting your more expensive felt pad.

After removing your saddle, immediately wipe down the underside of your pad with a dry towel to remove moisture before it soaks in deeply.

Quality Pad Covers

Investing in removable, washable pad covers saves time and extends the life of your felt pads. These covers take the brunt of the dirt and sweat, allowing less frequent deep cleaning of the felt itself.

Seasonal Care Considerations

In summer months when horses sweat more, clean pads more frequently. During winter, pay special attention to drying pads completely to prevent mildew.

Troubleshooting Common Felt Saddle Pad Issues

Dealing with Matted Felt

If your pad becomes matted, use wool cards or a slicker brush to gently separate the fibers. Work in small sections and avoid pulling too hard.

For severely matted areas, steam can help. Hold the pad over a pot of boiling water (not touching the water) and use a brush to lift fibers as they soften from the steam.

Addressing Shrinkage Problems

If your pad has shrunk slightly, dampening it and gently stretching it back to shape can help. Place weights along the edges as it dries to maintain the correct dimensions.

Managing Odor Issues

Persistent odors indicate bacterial growth. Sunlight acts as a natural disinfectant and deodorizer. Place clean pads in indirect sunlight for several hours to eliminate odors.

For stubborn smells, a solution of water and white vinegar (equal parts) sprayed lightly over the pad neutralizes odors without damaging felt.

Fixing Misshapen Pads

If your pad loses its shape, dampen it completely and place it over a saddle form or something similar to your saddle’s shape. Allow it to dry completely in this position to restore its proper contours.

Regular reshaping helps maintain the pad’s effectiveness and prevents pressure points that could harm your horse.

With consistent care using these methods, your felt saddle pads will last longer and continue providing comfort for both you and your horse. The small time investment in proper cleaning pays off in extended pad life and improved performance.

 

Mariah Zak

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