How to Clean and Store Your Leather Headstall and Breast Collar Set

June 17, 2025

Introduction

Leather horse tack, like a headstall and breast collar set, is more than just gear—it’s a rider’s pride and a horse’s comfort. A well-maintained leather tack set not only enhances the appearance of your horse but also ensures long-term durability and riding safety. If left dirty or improperly stored, the leather can crack, dry out, or deteriorate faster than expected.

Whether you ride casually or are preparing for a rodeo, show, or trail, regular cleaning and correct storage of your western leather headstall and breast collar set are essential. In this blog, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know—from choosing the right products to step-by-step cleaning and expert storage advice.

Let's start this blog with this short description

Why Cleaning and Storing Matter

Leather is a natural material that breathes and responds to its environment. It absorbs sweat, dust, moisture, and even chemicals from the atmosphere. Over time, these elements can weaken leather fibers, causing stiffness, discoloration, and cracks. A neglected tack set could compromise your horse's comfort and your ride quality.

By cleaning and storing your tack set properly:

You extend its life.
You maintain the leather’s flexibility.
You preserve its rich, aesthetic appearance.
You improve riding performance and safety.

Essential Supplies You’ll Need

Before you start, gather the following tools:

Soft-bristled tack brush or sponge
Clean lint-free cloths or towels
Glycerin saddle soap or pH-balanced leather cleaner
Leather conditioner or oil
Toothbrush (for hard-to-reach areas)
Water bucket with lukewarm water

Note: Avoid using harsh detergents, alcohol-based cleaners, or excessive water as they can damage the leather's natural oils.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Clean Your Leather Headstall and Breast Collar Set

Step 1: Disassemble the Tack Set

Start by gently removing the headstall and breast collar from your horse. Disassemble any buckles, conchos, or removable decorative parts. This will make it easier to clean every surface thoroughly.

Step 2: Remove Loose Dirt and Hair

Use a soft brush or dry cloth to wipe away dirt, mud, or horsehair. Focus on areas around buckles, tooling patterns, and stitched edges. These places collect the most grime.

Step 3: Clean the Leather Surface

Wet a soft sponge with warm water and wring it out. Apply a small amount of glycerin soap or leather cleaner onto the sponge. Rub the leather gently in circular motions. Avoid soaking the leather—use only a damp sponge.

Pay special attention to:

Browband and cheekpiece areas
Underside of the breast collar
Billet ends and keeper loops

Use a toothbrush for engraved or tooled details and tight corners.

Step 4: Wipe Off Excess Moisture

Once you've cleaned every section, use a dry towel to wipe away any soap residue and excess moisture. Never leave the leather tack wet for long periods, as this can lead to mildew or stiffness.

Step 5: Let It Air Dry Naturally

Place the tack on a clean, dry towel or hang it in a shaded area to dry naturally. Avoid direct sunlight, heaters, or blow dryers, as high heat can shrink or damage leather.

How to Condition Your Leather Tack

Conditioning your leather tack is just as important as cleaning it. It restores the natural oils, improves flexibility, and prevents cracking.

Step 1: Choose the Right Conditioner

Select the best quality leather conditioner or oil specifically designed for equestrian leather gear use. Look for products that are made from natural ingredients like beeswax, lanolin, or neatsfoot oil, which nourish and soften the leather without weakening it. Avoid conditioners with harsh chemicals, as they can dry out or crack the leather over time. If your tack is made of premium leather like Argentina cowhide, use a conditioner that protects both the finish and the tooling. Apply it regularly, especially after cleaning, to maintain flexibility, extend the life of your tack, and keep it looking new for every ride. Avoid petroleum-based conditioners, which can clog pores and reduce leather's breathability.

Step 2: Apply Conditioner Evenly

Use a soft cloth or your fingertips to apply a small amount of conditioner. Massage it into the leather using circular motions. Focus on high-stress areas like the browband, billet ends, and where buckles bend the leather.

Don't over-apply—too much conditioner can attract dust and leave the tack sticky.

Step 3: Let It Absorb

Let the conditioner soak into the leather for a few hours or overnight. Wipe off any excess with a clean cloth. Your leather tack should now feel supple, soft, and hydrated.

Caring for Conchos, Buckles, and Hardware

Metal parts like buckles and conchos need care, too. Dirt or rust buildup can ruin the overall appeal and function of your tack set.

Use a damp cloth or soft toothbrush to clean buckles.
For tarnished hardware, use a small amount of metal polish (ensure it doesn’t touch the leather).
Dry and buff with a clean cloth for a sparkling finish.

If your tack set features engraved or antique copper or brass, be extra gentle. These finishes can wear off with harsh scrubbing.

How Often Should You Clean Your Tack?

Frequency depends on usage. Here’s a general guideline:

Daily riders: Light cleaning after every use, deep cleaning once a week.
Occasional riders (1-2 times/week): Deep clean once or twice a month.
Show tack: Clean before and after each show to maintain appearance.
Stored tack: Clean and condition every 2-3 months to prevent drying.

How to Store Your Leather Headstall and Breast Collar Properly

Storing your tack set correctly is just as important as cleaning. Improper storage leads to mold, mildew, dryness, and permanent creasing.

Do’s for Proper Storage

Hang properly: Use a tack rack or padded hook to hang the headstall and breast collar naturally without bending.
Use breathable covers: If you’re storing long-term, cover the tack with a cotton cloth or breathable fabric—not plastic—to avoid moisture buildup.
Keep away from direct sunlight: UV rays fade and weaken leather.
Maintain stable temperature and humidity: Ideal storage is a cool, dry, and well-ventilated room.
Use moisture absorbers: Silica gel packs or cedar chips can help control humidity.

Don’ts for Storage

Don’t store in plastic bags.
Don’t fold or crease your tack tightly.
Don’t keep tack in damp, unclean, or pest-prone areas.

Pro Tips to Extend the Life of Your Western Tack Set

Always check stitching and hardware after cleaning.
Don’t allow sweat or water to dry on the tack—clean after each use.
Rotate the tack if you ride often to reduce wear and tear on a single set.
Avoid storing tack near oils, chemicals, or paints.

Conclusion

A clean, conditioned, and well-stored leather headstall and breast collar set can last for many years and continue to perform beautifully ride after ride. Your horse will thank you for the comfort, and you’ll take pride in the polished, elegant look of your gear. Whether you’re a rodeo competitor or a casual western rider, tack maintenance is a fundamental part of responsible horsemanship.

By following the steps in this guide, you can keep your western tack set looking as good as new, rain or shine, trail or show.

Have any special tips for tack cleaning or a favorite conditioner you swear by? Share your thoughts in the comments below or tag us on social media with your tack care routines!