Saddle soap belongs in every tack room and boot closet. It lifts the dirt and grime that dull smooth leather, then lubricates the fibers so they do not dry out and crack. Use it on saddlery, work boots, shoes and other smooth leather that needs a reset after muddy rides, wet weather or a long dry spell.
Work it into a lather with a damp sponge, soft brush or cloth, wipe away the residue, and let the leather dry before you condition and buff. The result is leather that stays supple, holds its strength and takes a shine.
Highlights
- Lifts dirt and grime from smooth leather
- Conditions fibers to help prevent brittleness
- Keeps saddles, boots and shoes supple
- Works into a lather with a damp sponge or brush
- Wipes clean with a damp cloth
- Buffs up after conditioning
At a glance
| Product type | Leather cleaner and conditioner |
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| Form | Paste |
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| Use on | Saddlery, boots, shoes and smooth leather |
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| Application | Damp sponge, soft brush or cloth |
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| Finish | Buffs to a shine |
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| Color transfer | None on leather |
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| Storage | Cool, dry place away from direct sunlight |
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How to use it
Work in small sections and keep the leather damp, not soaked:
- Brush loose dirt and debris off the leather with a soft-bristled brush before applying saddle soap.
- Dampen a clean sponge, soft bristle brush or cloth with water so it is damp, not dripping wet.
- Rub the dampened applicator on the saddle soap to build a lather, then apply the lather to the leather in a circular motion, working in small sections.
- Work the lather gently into the leather, focusing on stains, dirt or grime; use a little pressure if needed but avoid scrubbing delicate or unfinished leather too vigorously.
- Wipe off excess saddle soap with a clean, damp cloth after each section to remove dirt and soap from the leather's pores.
- Repeat applying saddle soap in small sections until the whole surface is cleaned; repeat the process if the leather is particularly dirty.
- Let the leather air dry completely before applying a leather conditioner or protective product.
- After conditioning, buff the leather with a clean, dry soft bristle brush or soft cloth to restore shine and luster.
- Store saddle soap in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
- Test saddle soap on a small, inconspicuous area first to check compatibility and results.
Good to know
- Follow with a leather conditioner once the leather is fully dry, then buff for shine.
- Work a little lather at a time in small sections so dirt lifts instead of spreading.
- Keep the soap cool and dry, away from direct sun, so it stays easy to work.
- Test on a hidden patch first, especially on delicate or unfinished leather.
Mud season and show season both put leather to the test, so keep a tin in the tack room and another by the boots.