Rub-a-Dub-Dub, Should I Really Put a Horse Blanket in My Tub?
Thursday, February 28th, 2008
Regular washings of your horse’s “laundry” are very important as proper care and maintenance keep them hygienic and serviceable for many years to come.
Blankets, saddle pads and leg wraps require routine cleaning as the ammonias found in urine and manure act like acid on fabric. This greatly reduces the strength and overall longevity of the garment. This soiling not only impairs functionality but also increases the risk of fungal skin conditions.
While there are many local blanket repair and laundry services available here are a few helpful hints should you decide to take on your own housekeeping details!
- Remove any dirt or debris from exterior shell.
- Using a stiff-bristled brush loosen patches of hair from interior lining. To make the process easier and more thorough use a shop vacuum, as excessive hair can damage your washing machine.
- Remove detachable leg and chest straps, untie tail cords and fasten Velcro closures and bellybands.
- Tie or rubber band buckles with socks to protect the inside of wash tub.
- Place leg wraps in zippered lingerie bags to keep from knotting during wash and drying cycle.
- Use a front load machine without an agitator whenever possible.
- Follow manufacturer’s directions for washing and drying of the garment. As wool blankets and coolers may require professional dry cleaning.
- Use appropriate cleaning solutions: While Ivory Snow products are excellent mild soaps for non-waterproof garments; it is recommended that non-detergent brands such as Nikwax, Natures Blend or comparable products be used to maintain the integrity of waterproof materials.
- Dissolve laundry products in lukewarm water prior to adding garments.
- Blankets with waterproof outer shells should be loaded into machine inside out so that water will flush thru the fabric. Place non-waterproof blankets with dirtiest side facing outward. If using a home washing machine make sure blankets are laid carefully around the agitator, keeping all straps inside the blanket.
- While line drying is preferred, use caution when using dryers as temperatures can vary. Excessive heat can shrink or melt nylon materials and bindings. Cotton leg wraps and saddle pads can be tumbled dry on cooler temperature settings.
Take care of your investment by laundering and making repairs. When not in use the best choice for long term storage is a sealable airtight container in your tack room where the garments will be protected from dampness, direct heat and rodents. It is advisable to never store dirty blankets between seasons.
For a complete line of equine laundry equipment for your horse barns visit:
www.professionallaundry.com