How should you care for your equestrian clothing?

When you think of the word “equestrian”, you probably imagine someone in full equestrian attire. Riding pants, a leather helmet, and some tall riding boots are all pieces of apparel synonymous with horseback riding. However, while these items are necessary for participating in equestrian activities, they are not the only items you should be concerned with keeping clean. Equestrians also need to keep their uniforms clean and looking their best both on and off the horse. Luckily, there are many products on the market designed to make cleaning uniforms easier and more efficient. In fact, many companies have even started creating special cleaning products just for equestrians. This article will explore some of these options so you can find the best cleaning products for your needs and keep your uniforms in tip-top condition at all times.

Loofahs

Loofahs are excellent for cleaning uniforms made from synthetic materials such as polyester, which can trap dirt and dust much more easily than natural fabrics. Natural fabrics such as cotton and linen can be easily damaged by lye and bleach, so a loofah is a good alternative for cleaning them. A loofah can also be used to clean leather items such as the inside of a riding helmet. However, a loofah is not a good option for cleaning wool or any other fabric that contains animal byproducts.

Bleach

Bleach is a very effective cleaning product that can be used to clean clothing and other items made from synthetic fabrics. You can use a light bleach solution to clean most synthetic garments, but you must be careful not to overdo it. Overly strong solutions will cause synthetic fabrics to yellow and become discolored, and they can also damage the fabric by eroding the dyes that have been added to it. Be sure to use a mild bleach solution when cleaning synthetic fabrics to avoid damaging the fabrics.

Vacuum cleaner

A vacuum cleaner is a good option for cleaning the inside of helmets, boots, and other items that are not made from synthetic materials. However, you should only use the lowest setting for synthetic materials, as too strong a vacuum will cause synthetic fabrics to stretch and become misshapen. It is best to clean synthetic fabrics with a damp cloth and water to avoid stretching them too much.

Hot soapy water

Hot soapy water is a good option for cleaning synthetic fabrics, such as polyester, that are not coloured. You can also use hot soapy water to clean wool and other natural fabrics that are not treated with chemicals. You should avoid using hot water to clean natural fabrics if the water is very hot or if they are made from cotton, as these fabrics can shrink and become damaged.

Conclusion

Equine clothing is made from a variety of fabrics, including synthetic and natural materials. Synthetic materials are generally easier to clean, but synthetic fabrics can be damaged by strong cleaning products. Natural fabrics, such as cotton, can be damaged by cleaning products, but they are easier to maintain. The best way to clean all types of fabrics is to use a damp cloth and water.