Most Mohair gear won’t need to be washed more than once a year. Even then, a basic rinse in a bucket of water, and running a hose over it, will loosen the sweat and dirt enough to easily wash away! If you notice parts that are getting hard or crunchy, even just taking a hard brush to it will oftentimes work most of the dirt free, without even needing to use water. If you’re riding in clay-based mud, etc, then water could definitely be needed to get it clean. However, if the side against the horse is free of debris and is still soft and pliable, it probably doesn’t need to be washed yet.
Check out the easy steps below for cleaning your Mohair gear! With breastcollars, just remove your leather pieces before following these steps.
STEP 1:
Remove any burrs/stickers gently. You can also brush with a hard brush on the back side of the cinch to knock dirt/sweat loose.
STEP 2:
Swish or dunk in a bucket of cool water, holding by the buckles. You can add a small amount of horse shampoo of gentle soap (Woolite, etc) if desired.
STEP 3:
If the cinch is REALLY dirty, you can let it soak for a few minutes. Rinse with a hose until the water runs clear. Lay flat or hang to dry out of direct sunlight.
DO NOT: Powerwash (can damage the fibers!), use a washing machine (can “felt” the Mohair!) , hot water (can weaken the dye molecules and cause fading!) or remove the felted in hair – (this acts as extra padding for the horse.)
As always, if you ever have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us!
