Felt saddle pads are a popular choice in Western riding.
They’re typically made of wool or a wool blend, such as wool and polyester, and are known for their excellent moisture-wicking properties and durability.
But as with any pad, sweat, dirt, and hair can accumulate over time. Wear spots or hardened patches of crud can potentially rub and irritate horses’ skin.
However, with periodic cleaning, a felt saddle pad can remain in tip-top shape, preserving its usefulness for years.
Cleaning doesn’t take much time or effort, and the payoff is worth it. Let’s take a look at how to do it.
Above – The Thinline Contour Western Ranch Round Skirt Pad
TL;DR Version
If you don’t want to read the entire article, check out the steps below:
| Step | Tools Needed | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Pre-cleaning | Stiff brush, rubber curry comb | Loosen dirt and hair in an outward direction. |
| Dry cleaning | Soft brush, air compressor | Remove debris after each ride, air-dry the pad. |
| Deep cleaning | Mild soap, cold water, soft brush | Scrub with soap, rinse with hose, lay flat to dry. |
| Rinsing | Garden hose with attachment, cold water | Rinse until water runs clean. |
| Drying | Flat surface, well-ventilated area | Lay flat, avoid hanging over a fence. |
| Avoid Mistakes | — | No power washing, no harsh chemicals. |
| Maintenance | Saddle pad liner, air dryer | Use liners, clean pad after few rides. |
Regularly Remove Excess Dirt and Hair
After every ride, check your pad for dirt, sweat, or hair buildup. Doing a quick cleanup is a good idea so things don’t get out of hand.
Use a stiff brush or rubber curry comb to loosen and brush away the dirt and hair, removing surface-level grime. This practice helps prevent dirt, hair, and sweat from embedding in the wool fibers. When dirt gets down deep, it can be tough to get out.
Remember to let your felt pad dry after sweaty rides to prevent moisture buildup and odors. Always air-dry it in a well-ventilated area.
Deep Cleaning with Water and Soap
Even with routine cleaning, you’ll probably occasionally need to wash your felt pad.
When the pad needs a deep clean, hand wash it with a mild liquid wool-wash soap and cold water. Don’t use hot water, which can shrink the wool fibers and damage the pad. For the same reason, never use heat to dry.
Gently scrub areas on the pad with visible stains or sweat buildup using a damp cloth or sponge.
Rinsing and Air-Drying
After washing, thoroughly rinse the pad to remove all soap residue.
We recommend rinsing with a hose because you can direct a steady stream of cold water over the pad, ensuring all soap and dirt are rinsed away.
Spray the water on the center of the pad and work outwards so all the hair and grime are pushed off the pad rather than into it. Once the water runs clear, the pad is ready for drying.
To dry, lay the pad flat in a well-ventilated area. Do not hang it over a fence or rail; this can warp the pad, causing uneven pressure during future rides. The pad should be completely dry before using it again to prevent mold and rain rot.
Avoid Common Mistakes
Avoid overwashing the pad, as this wears down the wool fibers and decreases its lifespan. Only wash the areas that need it.
Do not use power wash tools, pressure washers, or washing machines, as these can damage the material and break down the leather trim that may be on the pad.
Also, do not use harsh chemicals, which can degrade the wool and any leather present.
Addressing Soreness and Material Wear
If you notice any soreness in your horse’s back, examine the pad closely for uneven wear or compressed areas that may be causing pressure points.
Cleaning the pad often prevents dirt buildup, which can aggravate your horse’s skin. Replace any worn-out pads immediately to avoid further issues.
ThinLine Felt Saddle Pads – A Step Above Traditional Felt Pads
ThinLine offers a variety of felt saddle pads for western riders. Each pad includes two panels of our famous shock-absorbing ThinLine foam material, making our pads unique compared to traditional felt pads.
Why settle for a typical felt pad when you can choose one with ThinLine’s open-cell foam technology? Traditional felt pads are known for durability, but combined with ThinLine, the benefits to horse and rider multiply.
ThinLine is the only product endorsed by spinal surgeons, master saddlers, veterinarians, and professional trainers because of its superior shock-reducing capabilities. As all these professionals would tell you, when riding becomes less jarring, horses and riders win.
The ThinLine panels on our felt pads and felt liner are thin – 3/18 inches – yet absorb shock incredibly. Because they’re so slim, they add no bulk, making them a perfect complement to saddles that fit well.
On the other hand, if your saddle fit is less than ideal, all ThinLine felt saddle pads allow for shimming so you can address minor fit issues.
Another advantage riders will love is the stability that comes with a ThinLine pad. You’ll find it easier to balance and follow your horse because your horse’s movement is absorbed and transferred across the pad rather than up into your spine. Communication with your horse will be more refined.
We also offer options for wool or wool blend pads.
Our Square Premium Pro-Tech Felt Western Pad is made in the USA and constructed with the finest virgin Merino needled wool felt. Thinline panels are stitched on, and the pad has a breathable mesh spine band for optimal airflow.
If you prefer a wool blend, our Western Pro-Tech Round Skirt Felt Saddle Pad is made with Diamond Wool and a polyester blend. The polyester gives integrity and makes it easy to clean.
If you’re looking for a felt saddle pad that offers superior shock absorption and comfort for horse and rider, consider a ThinLine felt saddle pad. We offer a Western Felt Saddle Pad Money Back Guarantee to encourage you to give our felt pads a try!
Popular Questions
Below are common questions we get asked about cleaning felt pads.
How often should I clean my felt saddle pad?
There’s no set timeframe, but regular maintenance helps reduce the need for deep cleaning.
Check your pad after each ride. If you notice sweat buildup, dirt, or hair accumulation, brush the pad off with a rubber curry or stiff brush. If it’s sweaty, let it air dry in a well-ventilated place.
If you’re not that diligent with regular maintenance and notice grimy spots of dirt and sweat, it’s probably time to deep-clean the pad.
Can I machine wash my felt saddle pad?
No, you should not machine wash felt saddle pads. The agitation can damage the wool fibers and affect the shape. Instead, hand wash the pad with mild liquid wool-wash soap and cold water to maintain its integrity and longevity.
What is the best way to dry a felt saddle pad after washing?
After washing, lay the felt saddle pad flat in a well-ventilated area to dry completely. Avoid hanging it over a rail or using direct heat, which can warp the pad or damage the wool fibers. Rotate the pad occasionally to ensure even drying.