Horse Rug Washing Near Me? Quick Answer

Your horse will always find a way to get dirt and mud on his horse blanket, especially when wet weather and mud are around. GoHorse offers some useful tips on the best ways to get a rug clean.

There are a few ways to clean your horse blanket.

Commercial horse blanket washing services are available that do an excellent job. They often advertise in horse-related publications, or you can search the internet to see if there are services in your area.

Some general retail laundries and laundromats also offer cleaning services, but you’ll have to shop around as not all are happy to take on a muddy, smelly, and hairy horse blanket.

If the cost outweighs the convenience of hiring someone else to do the dirty work, there are a number of options for you to clean horse blankets at home.

Blankets can certainly be washed in your washing machine if it is big enough, this is a good option for cotton and poly-cotton horse rugs and polar fleece rugs. Carpets should not be washed on an aggressive cycle and only warm water and mild detergents should be used. Some people add a eucalyptus wool wash, which gives your rugs a nice smell and soft feel.

The machine is not recommended for synthetic waterproof carpets, as it may shorten the life of the fabric’s waterproof treatment.

The best option for synthetic horse rugs is to hand wash in warm water with a mild detergent. The carpet can first be hung on a line and mud and other dirt can be hosed off and then finished with a hand wash.

Another method is to hang the rug from a line and use a pressure washer to blast off the dirt. Some pressure washers come with an attachment to apply detergent, or you can do this by hand and then finish with a jet to remove the dirt. Finish the process paying special attention to stubborn areas. A wide spray should be used from a greater distance as a concentrated spray close to the material will damage the waterproof lining.

Horse rugs should be hung over a line and dried thoroughly and completely before being folded and stored until the next season. Failure to do this will result in a moldy, smelly carpet the next time you use it. Blanket rugs take some time to dry completely.

By following a few simple steps, you’ll extend the life of your rug and keep it looking good for longer.

Carpet Care Guide

HOW SHOULD I WASH MY WEATHERBEETA RUG?

It is often advisable to take your turnout (and stable) rugs to a professional rug cleaning service who has the specialist equipment needed. However, hand washing will help extend the life of your rug. Follow these simple steps:

Remove excess dirt. Hand wash at cool temperature with a non-organic soap (washing at high temperatures may damage the waterproofing of the fabric). Drain. Do not tumble dry. Always store in a cool and dry place.

Please Note: Most WeatherBeeta rugs are sold with their own handy storage bag – the perfect container for them when not in use.

WHAT DO WATERPROOF AND EASY BREATHING MEAN?

This is your rug’s ability to protect your horse from the elements – especially rain – while still keeping your horse comfortable by ‘wicking away’ sweat and perspiration and channeling it through the rug fabric to the outside air. Remember how uncomfortable you feel in a waterproof jacket that doesn’t breathe – it gets clammy and gives you chills if the moisture can’t escape!

We achieve your carpet’s Breathe Easy properties by applying a special ‘hydrophilic’ (water-loving) coating to the underside of each carpet. This coating prevents water from penetrating from the outside in, but uses the temperature difference between the horse and the air to allow sweat molecules to travel through the fabric and evaporate, keeping your horse dry – inside out!

UK/Europe: Please note that as per BETA (British Equestrian Trading Association) guidelines, the term ‘waterproof’ refers to the outer fabric of the rug/rug which does not allow water to penetrate from the outside onto the horse’s skin. Describing a rug as “waterproof” refers to the fabric it is made of, not the product as a whole, as all rugs contain seams and fasteners that cannot be glued. It is always advisable to have a spare carpet on hand.

MY CARPET IS “RIPSTOP” BUT IT’S TORN. WHY DID THIS HAPPEN?

The ripstop weave in the fabric of our rugs helps contain tears. Ripstop’s signature “checkerboard pattern” is actually a series of reinforced strands interspersed within standard fabric fibers, and these thicker, stronger areas (the edges of the “checkerboard patterns”) help to prevent a tear from propagating once it occurs begins. Ripstop does not guarantee that the fabric will not rip at all. Importantly, the stronger areas are actually designed to tear should your horse become snagged or snagged in any way.

WHAT SHOULD I DO WITH MY DEFECTIVE GOODS?

It is uncommon for products to be faulty, however should you feel that you have a faulty item you must return it to the store where you purchased it. This is important as your legal contract of sale is with the retailer where you purchased the item.

UK/Europe: Please note that as per the BETA guidelines, all products returned to retailers for evaluation must be clean and dry as per the Health and Safety At Work Act 1972.

DO I NEED TO RE-IMPRIME MY TURF?

Your WeatherBeeta carpet can benefit from an occasional waterproofing. The age of your carpet will determine how regularly you need to do this. If water no longer beads up on the carpet, this may indicate that it needs to be impregnated. However, it must be remembered that while re-proofing will help keep your carpet waterproof, it is not a permanent waterproof coating.

WHAT SIZE MASK DO I NEED TO FIT MY FLY RUG OR BLADE?

In general, this table is a good guide when customizing masks. Ask your dealer for help if you are unsure.

horse body sizes

I would like to waterproof my horse’s turnout rugs. How easy is it?

There are several companies on the market that offer products that can be used to wash and waterproof horse blankets at home in a household washing machine. While this is fine occasionally, if you plan to wash multiple rugs more regularly, consider investing in a washing machine specifically designed for cleaning horse gear.

Riding washers and tumble dryers can be purchased or leased, and some companies even offer a wide range of refurbished models, helping to keep costs down.

These horse rug washers feature drums large enough to hold two to three rugs at a time, with enough room to ensure even coverage of the impregnating liquid – and will meet the challenges of mud, hair, buckles and staples that in the household can occur models such as a hammering.

Do it yourself

That being said, if you’re looking to try DIY waterproofing at home – maybe two or three carpets a year – your washing machine should be fine. As a rule, a carpet should be re-impregnated every 12 months from the age of three years.

It’s important to make sure a carpet is completely clean before you begin. Stick to one rug at a time and clean them with a special washing liquid instead of the regular product you use on your own clothes. If you don’t want to use your machine, you can do so outside with a bucket and hose.

Once the carpet is rinsed, you can reprimand it. Some products can be sprayed on or painted on, but there are also ones that can be put in a wash and you don’t even have to wait for the carpet to dry before you start. Most are made from environmentally friendly materials and can be safely disposed of down your household drains.

high and dry

Once the impregnation is complete, either air dry the rug or tumble dry on low if the care label allows. I tend to dry the rugs naturally whenever possible because unlike the main fabrics themselves, the rug’s nylon weaves can shrink and become brittle over time.

Step-by-step instructions on how to waterproof your horse blanket

Blankets are a small investment, but if you take care of them, they will protect your horse from the elements for many years to come. Now it’s time to clean and re-impregnate them so they’re ready to go when you need them.

If you fancy a little scrubbing, you can clean your carpets yourself – it only takes three simple steps. All you need is a warm, dry day, some muscle strength, and a specially formulated carpet cleaner and waterproofer – regular laundry detergent will remove the waterproofing from your carpets.

We like Nikwax Rug Wash (1 liter cleans four rugs) and Nikwax Rug Proof (1 liter cleans two rugs).

1. Soak your carpet

The mud and dirt that still sticks to carpets after a long, miserable winter is much easier to remove if you let your carpet soak for a few hours before you start cleaning – a clean dustbin is ideal for this.

2. Dilute the detergent

Dilute your horse blanket wash and get to work. Use a scrub brush or broom to remove all dirt, paying special attention to the seams. Be sure to clean both sides, then rinse thoroughly.

3. Apply carpet waterproofing

When using Nikwax carpet waterproofing products, you can apply Rug Waterproofer while your carpet is still damp. Work into fabric with a sponge or use Horse Rug Proofing Spray and leave on for 5-10 minutes, then rinse.

4. Drying out

Hang your rug to dry (this may take some time depending on thickness and material) and do not pack until completely dry, otherwise it will become moldy.

Expert tip: If you’re struggling to find the time to clean your carpets, there are companies that will wash, waterproof, and even repair them. Your rugs will come back to you clean and packed for safekeeping.

Prices vary, but expect to pay around £20 to have a rug washed and waterproofed. Some companies will organize collection and may offer discounts on a large number of rugs, so it may be worth teaming up with friends to save money.

Horses are beautiful, majestic creatures. But like playful children, they love to roll in the mud and occasionally get dirty. While these antics are fun to watch, the thought of having to wash a horse’s blanket makes most riders sigh.

As the weather cools and winter approaches, horse owners begin to think about the inevitable washing of the horse’s blanket this season. If you plan on hand washing, machine washing, relying on the pros, or just looking for a quick spot clean, we’ve outlined the best steps you can take to extend the life of your rug and keep your horse warm and dry.

When should you wash a horse blanket?

In general, you should wash your horse rugs once a year at the end of each cold weather season. Some horse owners prefer to wash their rugs right before they put them into storage so they don’t have to worry about last-minute cleaning at the start of the next season.

Good quality horse rugs can last more than 10 to 15 seasons with proper care. Over-washing your blanket can ultimately damage the waterproof material and limit its lifespan to just a few years.

Can you put a horse blanket in the washing machine?

The short answer: yes, you can put your horse blanket in the washing machine. But some, namely medium to heavy stable or pasture sheets and blankets, are better candidates for hand washing or professional cleaning.

Before doing a DIY horse blanket wash, check the care label. Manufacturers are generally pretty good at telling you exactly how to wash your horse rug. If there isn’t a grooming tag to refer to, you can probably contact your equestrian community or your favorite search engine for advice.

Our rule of thumb is: when in doubt, rely on the professionals.

How to machine wash lightweight horse blankets

Your lightweight horse dress sheets and coolers are probably safe for the washing machine. When your horse rug is ready for the do-it-yourself wash, here are the steps you should take.

1. Remove excess dirt

Put your blanket outside, grab a stiff-bristled brush from your grooming kit, and sweep away any excess dirt, hair, hay, or any other loose particles that may have settled during the colder months.

This step may require some elbow grease, but the less work your washer has to do, the better.

2. Hose off stubborn dirt

Keep your horse blanket laid out and take out your hose. Quickly rinse off any remaining dirt with cold water, using the same stiff brush to gently scrub stubborn areas.

Try your best to get most of the hair out of the blanket, especially in the tiny fibers. Your washing machine will thank you because it relieves your waste water system and prevents damage.

3. Wash on gentle cycle

With the surface layer of dirt removed, it’s time to put your blanket in your washing machine.

You may consider using a mesh laundry bag to protect your washing machine from your horse rug’s straps, entrapments and buckles. A laundry bag also helps prevent tangles or damage to the blanket during the washing process.

Wash your blanket with cold water and a mild detergent on a gentle cycle. Avoid using fabric softener as it can strip away the protective waterproof coating.

4. Line drying

Take your horse blanket out of the washing machine immediately after the wash cycle. If left on for too long, it will develop a musty smell and require a second, more thorough wash.

Hang your horse blanket to dry on a line or over fence posts. You want both sides of the blanket to have room to breathe and dry evenly. Preferably choose a day when it is sunny and pleasantly windy to make the drying process go as smoothly as possible.

When you’re done washing and drying your horse rug, you can either keep using it or fold it up carefully and store it for easy access during the next cold season. Before you wash the regular household linen in your washing machine, run it a few more times without clothes to remove any leftover surprises from your horse blanket.

How to hand wash a horse blanket

We recommend keeping your medium to heavy blankets away from home washing machines. The pros use heavy-duty equipment that can withstand the extra rug weight while maintaining the integrity of your horse rug.

If you don’t want to pay the professional price, hand washing is a good backup option. To hand wash your horse stable or turnout rug and sheets you should follow these steps.

1. Remove excess dirt

Lay your blanket on the grass or over half boxes. Use a stiff bristle brush or scraper to gently remove dirt, hair, hay or other surface debris to avoid damaging the protective layers of the horse’s rug.

2. Hose off remaining dirt

With your blanket laid out, grab your hose and wash off any loose dirt with cold water.

While your hose is still running, repeat step one, being careful to get into the smaller areas and corners of your ceiling. During this part of hand washing, it can be helpful to have a second person to help you hold the hose.

3. Scrub with a gentle detergent

Next, apply a generous amount of mild detergent to your stiff brush. Gently scrub the entire surface of your ceiling in a circular motion, again being careful to get into hard-to-reach areas.

Some well-known brands have specially formulated detergents for hand washing horse rugs, but you don’t have to use them if you prefer another rug-friendly alternative.

4. Rinse thoroughly

When your blanket is fully foamed, bring the hose back out to begin the flushing process.

It is important to completely flush the soap from the ceiling. If not, the soap will be reactivated and seep onto your horse’s skin the next time your horse wears the rug, especially if he is sweating or if the rug gets wet from rain or snow.

5. Line drying

When you are sure you got rid of all the soap, place your horse rug on a dry line or over fence posts. Heavier blankets usually take longer to dry, so it may take a few hours.

To speed up the drying process, consult a weather app and choose a day to wash and dry your blanket when you know it’s going to be sunny and lightly windy.

Just a little dirty? Here’s how to make minor touch-ups

If you notice that your horse rug is building up some extra layers of dirt but doesn’t need a thorough wash just yet, you can use your cold water hose to wash off any buildup.

Clean more stubborn stains with a gentle detergent and a stiff brush. Both options are usually sufficient and extend the life of your horse blanket.

Buy a durable horse blanket from Horse Tack Co.

Whether roaming the fields or enjoying the comfort of their stalls, your horses deserve stable rugs or turnouts with the right fit to stay safe and warm in cold weather. Horse Tack Co. stocks the finest equestrian brands in a variety of sizes and styles to protect your horse while honoring their unique personality.

If you’re in the area, stop by our New Holland store in person. If not, you can always visit us online and browse our wide range of horse blankets and other quality products. If you have any questions, e.g. B. How to measure your horse for the best rug fit, contact our knowledgeable equestrian enthusiasts today. We’re here to help Love the Ride!

With Susan Barron, Skyline Equine

By Jess Hallas Kilcoyne

Q: How do I impregnate my horse’s rugs and how often do they need to be re-impregnated?

A: “No blanket stays waterproof forever,” says Susan Barron of Skyline Equine, Canadian supplier for Bucas Ltd. “After a few years of good use, the waterproofing wears off.”

“Re-impregnate if necessary,” she continues. “You’ll know it’s time when you notice moisture along the midline of the horse’s back and croup.”

There are many water repellent sprays on the market specifically designed for horse rugs. However, there are other options.

“I use the same silicone spray to waterproof blankets that I use on my patio cushions—Scotchgard™,” says Barron. “It’s cheap, you can buy it almost anywhere, and it works. KIWI Camp Dry® is another good one.”

Make sure your ceiling is clean before applying a water repellent. More important than water repellents, however, the key to a waterproof blanket is washing it properly so that the waterproof coating on the outside of the blanket is retained. “A lot of people have to re-proof their quilts because they don’t clean their quilts properly,” says Barron.

See also: How to blanket a horse in cold weather

Harsh chemicals and heat can destroy a duvet’s waterproofing and damage the material itself, making it less likely that a water repellent will properly adhere to the duvet when you re-proof it.

“Only wash blankets on a gentle cycle at a maximum of 40 degrees Celsius,” advises Barron. “Always use a manufacturer approved blanket wash. Household cleaners can damage the protective layer. Do not put your rug in the dryer, instead hang it to air dry. If you clean them this way, your carpets should not need to be re-proofed for many years.”

Don’t dry clean your carpets, and if you use a professional rug cleaning service, make sure they wash and dry your rug according to this guide.

Related: Clipping 101

Skyline Equine’s Susan Barron is the Canadian supplier to Bucas Ltd., a leading manufacturer of horse blankets and other accessories.

Main photo: Clean your horse’s rug before waterproofing it, but make sure you wash it properly to preserve the water-repellent coating on the outside of the rug. Credit: Shutterstock/Volnnata

It’s summer, that time when the run can seem more like a torture chamber for your horse, with all the flies that bother him. How can you make your horse comfortable? Live Gude from Pro Equine Grooms has some tips on choosing summer outerwear for your horse.

There are many factors to consider when choosing a fly rug for your horse. As the weather warms up we want our horses to stay comfortable and cool but still protected from the sun and bugs. As a bonus, a nice fly sheet will also help your horse stay clean! Choosing the right fly rug for our horse depends on a few factors: colour, fabrics, extras and fit.

For colors and fabrics, I suggest you use your climate as a benchmark. Some summers are hot, so dictate that you opt for thinner fabrics. Some fly rugs are as thin as tissue paper and let a breeze through, others are durable and designed for the horse that is hard on their clothes. For milder climates, you can get away with a thicker fabric if needed. Light colors are great for reflecting the heat of the sun, which will benefit any horse that spends part of their day outdoors. If your horse is in a box during the day, you can choose one of the brightly patterned or colored versions.

Flysheets are also available with several extras. Belly protectors are great for horses that are very ticklish in the belly. High-necked versions offer a precise fit and can prevent hair loss on the withers and mane. Neck straps cover the withers to the poll, which is great for sun and insect protection. Tail covers help control bugs on your horse’s rear end, which can reduce the likelihood of the tail rubbing in response to bug-induced irritation. If you have a horse that’s allergic to mosquitoes (the no-see-um bugs responsible for sweet itch), look for extras that include elasticated leg openings. All flysheets must have elasticated leg straps. Otherwise you can end up with a mess and a panicked horse.

After you have decided on your flysheet color, thickness and bonus items, you can start assembling your flysheet. Before you even go to the store you can measure your horse for blanket/sheet size. Use a tape measure (the soft and flexible one used for sewing, not the stiff one) and a friend to measure your horse from the center of the chest, through the shoulder, rump and hindquarters to the center of the tail. This number in inches gives you a starting point for the size of the flysheet and blanket.

I like to try a few different brands on each horse as each manufacturer has a different cut for their sheets. This is my favorite way to adjust sheets and blankets. Start at the chest closure. The sides should overlap a few inches. Now unfold the blanket to make sure it covers the top of the tail. You want the rear to be covered, but not so much that the blanket is baggy and loose or your leg straps will dangle too much and be a trip hazard. Inadequate coverage can make your friend’s butt a target for bugs and jokes from his pasture mates.

Now that you can see if the fly is the right length, reaching just below his elbows and cinched in, you can button up the waist straps and leg straps. When all is said and done, it’s time to see if the fit allows your horse to move freely. This is determined by the gussets in the shoulder area. These vary in design and can be placed as high as the withers or low and close to the chest closure. The design of the gusset in conjunction with your horse’s shoulder shape will determine how comfortable the screen will be for your horse. A way to say? Take him for a walk and see if he can come out!

Caring for your flysheet is quick and easy. Some varieties do well in the washing machine. More delicate fabrics are easily cleaned by hosing them off in a drying rack, or you can soak them in a dirt tub of cold water for a few minutes. Air drying in a shady spot is quick and easy for all types of fly rugs.

Do you have personal care questions or secrets you want answered? Email them to us and Liv will address them next month!

Some animals, including dogs and horses, can be exposed to the elements outdoors. When it rains, waterproof blankets and coats are used to keep you dry and comfortable.

It is important that these waterproof fabrics allow moisture vapor to pass through or “breathe”; Otherwise the moisture cannot evaporate and will condense on the inside of the item. Additionally, if the outer fabric absorbs water and “soaks through”, the breathability of the item will be reduced. Both of these situations leave your pet feeling clammy, cold and uncomfortable. The breathability of blankets and coats can be maintained by ensuring the Durable Water Repellency (DWR) is maintained in good condition. Nikwax Rug Proof™ adds DWR that prevents water absorption while maintaining breathability, keeping your animals dry and comfortable.

Cater-Kwik’s own brand of dishwashers, these Cater-Wash commercial dishwashers, glasswashers, washing machines and associated cleaning products are designed and manufactured using our decades of knowledge and experience in the commercial catering industry. We use an industry leading Italian manufacturer to ensure all our industrial machines are made from only the highest quality materials and use proven components to deliver robust, reliable and excellent quality professional dishwashers, glasswashers and washing machines. Outstanding commercial performance, exceptional economic running costs and because we buy these in bulk to stock on site we can offer truly unparalleled value.

I would like to waterproof my horse’s turnout rugs. How easy is it?

There are several companies on the market that offer products that can be used to wash and waterproof horse blankets at home in a household washing machine. While this is fine occasionally, if you plan to wash multiple rugs more regularly, consider investing in a washing machine specifically designed for cleaning horse gear.

Riding washers and tumble dryers can be purchased or leased, and some companies even offer a wide range of refurbished models, helping to keep costs down.

These horse rug washers feature drums large enough to hold two to three rugs at a time, with enough room to ensure even coverage of the impregnating liquid – and will meet the challenges of mud, hair, buckles and staples that in the household can occur models such as a hammering.

Do it yourself

That being said, if you’re looking to try DIY waterproofing at home – maybe two or three carpets a year – your washing machine should be fine. As a rule, a carpet should be re-impregnated every 12 months from the age of three years.

It’s important to make sure a carpet is completely clean before you begin. Stick to one rug at a time and clean them with a special washing liquid instead of the regular product you use on your own clothes. If you don’t want to use your machine, you can do so outside with a bucket and hose.

Once the carpet is rinsed, you can reprimand it. Some products can be sprayed on or painted on, but there are also ones that can be put in a wash and you don’t even have to wait for the carpet to dry before you start. Most are made from environmentally friendly materials and can be safely disposed of down your household drains.

high and dry

Once the impregnation is complete, either air dry the rug or tumble dry on low if the care label allows. I tend to dry the rugs naturally whenever possible because unlike the main fabrics themselves, the rug’s nylon weaves can shrink and become brittle over time.

Step-by-step instructions on how to waterproof your horse blanket

Blankets are a small investment, but if you take care of them, they will protect your horse from the elements for many years to come. Now it’s time to clean and re-impregnate them so they’re ready to go when you need them.

If you fancy a little scrubbing, you can clean your carpets yourself – it only takes three simple steps. All you need is a warm, dry day, some muscle strength, and a specially formulated carpet cleaner and waterproofer – regular laundry detergent will remove the waterproofing from your carpets.

We like Nikwax Rug Wash (1 liter cleans four rugs) and Nikwax Rug Proof (1 liter cleans two rugs).

1. Soak your carpet

The mud and dirt that still sticks to carpets after a long, miserable winter is much easier to remove if you let your carpet soak for a few hours before you start cleaning – a clean dustbin is ideal for this.

2. Dilute the detergent

Dilute your horse blanket wash and get to work. Use a scrub brush or broom to remove all dirt, paying special attention to the seams. Be sure to clean both sides, then rinse thoroughly.

3. Apply carpet waterproofing

When using Nikwax carpet waterproofing products, you can apply Rug Waterproofer while your carpet is still damp. Work into fabric with a sponge or use Horse Rug Proofing Spray and leave on for 5-10 minutes, then rinse.

4. Drying out

Hang your rug to dry (this may take some time depending on thickness and material) and do not pack until completely dry, otherwise it will become moldy.

Expert tip: If you’re struggling to find the time to clean your carpets, there are companies that will wash, waterproof, and even repair them. Your rugs will come back to you clean and packed for safekeeping.

Prices vary, but expect to pay around £20 to have a rug washed and waterproofed. Some companies will organize collection and may offer discounts on a large number of rugs, so it may be worth teaming up with friends to save money.

Horses are beautiful, majestic creatures. But like playful children, they love to roll in the mud and occasionally get dirty. While these antics are fun to watch, the thought of having to wash a horse’s blanket makes most riders sigh.

As the weather cools and winter approaches, horse owners begin to think about the inevitable washing of the horse’s blanket this season. If you plan on hand washing, machine washing, relying on the pros, or just looking for a quick spot clean, we’ve outlined the best steps you can take to extend the life of your rug and keep your horse warm and dry.

When should you wash a horse blanket?

In general, you should wash your horse rugs once a year at the end of each cold weather season. Some horse owners prefer to wash their rugs right before they put them into storage so they don’t have to worry about last-minute cleaning at the start of the next season.

Good quality horse rugs can last more than 10 to 15 seasons with proper care. Over-washing your blanket can ultimately damage the waterproof material and limit its lifespan to just a few years.

Can you put a horse blanket in the washing machine?

The short answer: yes, you can put your horse blanket in the washing machine. But some, namely medium to heavy stable or pasture sheets and blankets, are better candidates for hand washing or professional cleaning.

Before doing a DIY horse blanket wash, check the care label. Manufacturers are generally pretty good at telling you exactly how to wash your horse rug. If there isn’t a grooming tag to refer to, you can probably contact your equestrian community or your favorite search engine for advice.

Our rule of thumb is: when in doubt, rely on the professionals.

How to machine wash lightweight horse blankets

Your lightweight horse dress sheets and coolers are probably safe for the washing machine. When your horse rug is ready for the do-it-yourself wash, here are the steps you should take.

1. Remove excess dirt

Put your blanket outside, grab a stiff-bristled brush from your grooming kit, and sweep away any excess dirt, hair, hay, or any other loose particles that may have settled during the colder months.

This step may require some elbow grease, but the less work your washer has to do, the better.

2. Hose off stubborn dirt

Keep your horse blanket laid out and take out your hose. Quickly rinse off any remaining dirt with cold water, using the same stiff brush to gently scrub stubborn areas.

Try your best to get most of the hair out of the blanket, especially in the tiny fibers. Your washing machine will thank you because it relieves your waste water system and prevents damage.

3. Wash on gentle cycle

With the surface layer of dirt removed, it’s time to put your blanket in your washing machine.

You may consider using a mesh laundry bag to protect your washing machine from your horse rug’s straps, entrapments and buckles. A laundry bag also helps prevent tangles or damage to the blanket during the washing process.

Wash your blanket with cold water and a mild detergent on a gentle cycle. Avoid using fabric softener as it can strip away the protective waterproof coating.

4. Line drying

Take your horse blanket out of the washing machine immediately after the wash cycle. If left on for too long, it will develop a musty smell and require a second, more thorough wash.

Hang your horse blanket to dry on a line or over fence posts. You want both sides of the blanket to have room to breathe and dry evenly. Preferably choose a day when it is sunny and pleasantly windy to make the drying process go as smoothly as possible.

When you’re done washing and drying your horse rug, you can either keep using it or fold it up carefully and store it for easy access during the next cold season. Before you wash the regular household linen in your washing machine, run it a few more times without clothes to remove any leftover surprises from your horse blanket.

How to hand wash a horse blanket

We recommend keeping your medium to heavy blankets away from home washing machines. The pros use heavy-duty equipment that can withstand the extra rug weight while maintaining the integrity of your horse rug.

If you don’t want to pay the professional price, hand washing is a good backup option. To hand wash your horse stable or turnout rug and sheets you should follow these steps.

1. Remove excess dirt

Lay your blanket on the grass or over half boxes. Use a stiff bristle brush or scraper to gently remove dirt, hair, hay or other surface debris to avoid damaging the protective layers of the horse’s rug.

2. Hose off remaining dirt

With your blanket laid out, grab your hose and wash off any loose dirt with cold water.

While your hose is still running, repeat step one, being careful to get into the smaller areas and corners of your ceiling. During this part of hand washing, it can be helpful to have a second person to help you hold the hose.

3. Scrub with a gentle detergent

Next, apply a generous amount of mild detergent to your stiff brush. Gently scrub the entire surface of your ceiling in a circular motion, again being careful to get into hard-to-reach areas.

Some well-known brands have specially formulated detergents for hand washing horse rugs, but you don’t have to use them if you prefer another rug-friendly alternative.

4. Rinse thoroughly

When your blanket is fully foamed, bring the hose back out to begin the flushing process.

It is important to completely flush the soap from the ceiling. If not, the soap will be reactivated and seep onto your horse’s skin the next time your horse wears the rug, especially if he is sweating or if the rug gets wet from rain or snow.

5. Line drying

When you are sure you got rid of all the soap, place your horse rug on a dry line or over fence posts. Heavier blankets usually take longer to dry, so it may take a few hours.

To speed up the drying process, consult a weather app and choose a day to wash and dry your blanket when you know it’s going to be sunny and lightly windy.

Just a little dirty? Here’s how to make minor touch-ups

If you notice that your horse rug is building up some extra layers of dirt but doesn’t need a thorough wash just yet, you can use your cold water hose to wash off any buildup.

Clean more stubborn stains with a gentle detergent and a stiff brush. Both options are usually sufficient and extend the life of your horse blanket.

Buy a durable horse blanket from Horse Tack Co.

Whether roaming the fields or enjoying the comfort of their stalls, your horses deserve stable rugs or turnouts with the right fit to stay safe and warm in cold weather. Horse Tack Co. stocks the finest equestrian brands in a variety of sizes and styles to protect your horse while honoring their unique personality.

If you’re in the area, stop by our New Holland store in person. If not, you can always visit us online and browse our wide range of horse blankets and other quality products. If you have any questions, e.g. B. How to measure your horse for the best rug fit, contact our knowledgeable equestrian enthusiasts today. We’re here to help Love the Ride!