How to Clean a Saddle: Step-by-Step Guide

How to Clean Your Martin Saddle

A Step-by-Step Guide

Keeping your saddle clean isn't just about looks; it protects your investment and keeps the leather in good working condition for years to come. Here's a simple, tried-and-true process for cleaning your saddle the right way.

Step 1

Blow Off the Dust

Start by blowing your saddle off with an air compressor, getting into the tooling, crevices, and any hard-to-reach spots as best you can. This clears away loose dust and dirt before you introduce any water or cleaner.

Step 2

Wash Your Saddle

For washing, use regular dish soap that you put into a bucket with water. If you choose to use Dawn soap, since it is a degreaser, it will lift a little oil out of your saddle so it’s important to remember to add that back in. As a famous saddle maker once put it: if it's safe enough for baby ducks, it's safe enough for a saddle; and it tends to do a better job pulling out deep dirt and grime than some leather-specific products. If you'd rather use an actual leather cleaner, Bentley's Liquid Glycerine is a solid choice.

Step 3

Re-Rough a Roughout Seat (If Needed)

If you want to re-rough your roughout while the saddle is still damp, take a small wire brush and rough up the leather with small, circular motions.

Step 4

Let It Dry Completely

After you've got your saddle clean, it's extremely important to let it dry completely. If you think it's dry, let it sit a half day longer just to be safe. If it's cold outside, bring your saddle inside to dry rather than leaving it out in the elements.

Step 5

Oil Your Saddle

Once your saddle is fully dry, it's time to oil it.

  • Roughout leather: Use pure neatsfoot oil.
  • Smoothout leather: We recommend a light coat of neatsfoot oil then do a coat of aussie cream. 

The best way to apply oil is with sheepskin pads. A little oil goes a long way, so apply very light coats to start, you can always add more, but you can't take oil away once it's on. Keep in mind this process will darken your saddle a few shades. If a darker color isn't something you want, it's best to find a dedicated saddle cleaner instead of an oil-based conditioner. The first few rides back in your saddle, don’t wear your favorite pair of jeans as there may be a little oil transfer.