I brought home my dads old saddle that has been sitting in my grandparents garage collecting dirt dobber nests and all sorts of other grime. I'd like to clean it up and recondition it. Any ideas on how to start?

Saddle soap and some conditioner?

DallasAggies01 said:

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Saddle soap and some conditioner?

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It might be that easy, but I didn't know if I should/could maybe wash it with dawn to get rid of most of the dirt first before hitting it with saddle soap and conditioner.

I'd use a damp rag to pick up most of the dirt and dust, and wipe it dry with a clean cloth. Then proceed with saddle soap.

Use Murphy's oil soap mixed in with some water to get all of the grime off. After the saddle is cleaned off use Skidmore's leather cream to hydrate it by working it in either with your hand or what I prefer, a piece of sheepskin. This is what we did for most of our tack in PMC and what I continue to use with all of my leather that sees continuous use and wear.

Thanks Cannon

In my 15+ years experience taking care of my saddles I have found Skidmore's to be superior to any products available at my local TSC or feed store. If the shipping is high when placing an order online give them a call & they will work something out.

http://skidmores.com/proddetail.asp?prod=lc

Z Jones ... I have a collection of old cavalry saddles and the guy at the cavalry museum at Ft. Riley told me to use Pecards Antique Leather dressing. He said for a very dirty saddle to use Murphys Saddle Soap but to immediately apply the Pecards after that or it would dry the old leather out. You can order the Pecards direct. 1-800-467-5056. www.pecard.com

You may only need to wipe off the dust, but after that apply "neatsfoot oil" to recondition the leather. It's inexpensive and perfect for the task, and I'd think it's available at Tractor Supply or Ag supply store.

Edit to add: just checked, and neatsfoot oil is available at WalMart, so it's everywhere.

Lexol!