Maintenance and care of driving harnesses: tips for extending service life and optimising performance
The maintenance and care of driving harnesses is essential to ensure the longevity of this valuable equine accessory and to optimise performance. Whether you are a passionate horse owner or a professional trainer, the correct care of harnesses not only ensures a long service life, but also the safety and comfort of your horses. But what's the best way to do this? Don't worry, we've put together the most important tips and facts for you!
Introduction to the world of driving harnesses
Driving harnesses are an essential part of equestrian equipment and are used in a wide variety of areas - from leisurely carriage rides to sporting activities and professional use. These complex leather works are robust and durable, but like all equipment, they require adequate care to keep them in perfect condition.
Leather in general is a natural product and is subject to external influences such as moisture, dirt and wear and tear. As much as we rely on the properties of leather, a certain amount of care must be invested in order to fully utilise its benefits.
Why is the care of driving harnesses so important?
In addition to ensuring that your harnesses look good, proper care prevents damage such as cracks, brittleness or excess wear and tear. A well-maintained driving harness can last for decades and prevents you from having to make expensive replacement purchases at regular intervals.
- Security: Undamaged crockery minimises the risk of accidents caused by defective material.
- Comfort: Well-groomed leather is more supple and adapts better to the shape of your horse.
- Aesthetics: Shiny and well-preserved crockery simply makes more of an impression!
Steps for effective maintenance and care of driving harnesses
1. regular cleaning is the be-all and end-all
Start your care routine by carefully cleaning the harness. Dust and dirt are unforgiving and act like sandpaper on the leather.
- Remove all attachments and place the crockery on a flat surface.
- Use a soft brush or a clean cloth to wipe off coarse dirt or dust.
- Use warm water and a special leather soap to clean the harness thoroughly. Make sure that you do not soak the leather to prevent it from hardening.
- Allow the harness to dry naturally - direct sunlight or heat sources can damage the leather.
2. proper care with leather grease or oil
Now is the time to give the leather some love. There are numerous care products on the market, including leather greases and oils, which can give your harness a new shine. But beware: oils can stain the leather if used incorrectly!
Pay attention to the following points during use:
- Do not use too much product. A thin layer is usually enough.
- Work the care product into the leather in circular movements.
- Remove excess grease or oil with a clean cloth.
3. regular inspection and minor repairs
The leather parts, buckles and seams should be inspected regularly. You can often rectify any defects yourself before they cause major damage. If necessary, fit replacement parts or use a sewing needle to fix loose connections.
Additional tips and tricks
Want to get even more out of your driving harness? Here are some tips to help you optimise your harness care routine:
- Store the crockery correctly: Dark, dry and well-ventilated rooms are ideal for storing your leather accessories.
- Avoid moisture: Leather should never be stored for long periods when wet, as this can promote mould growth.
- Prevent wear due to friction: Regularly check the points at which crockery items touch each other and adjust the setting if necessary.
Conclusion
The maintenance and care of driving harnesses may seem time-consuming at first, but it is an unavoidable part of horse care that should not be taken lightly. By giving your harnesses the attention they need, you not only ensure their functional use for many years to come, but also ensure the safety and comfort of your horses. So, grab the cloth and the cleaning bucket - your harnesses will thank you!
FAQs
How often should I clean my driving harness?
It is advisable to clean the harness after every intensive use to remove dirt and dust that could damage the leather. Thorough cleaning and care with leather care products should be carried out at least every few months, depending on the frequency of use.
Can I use normal soapy water for cleaning leather?
Avoid using normal soapy water, as this often dries out the leather and makes it porous. Instead, you should use special leather soaps that gently clean the material and preserve its suppleness.
How can I avoid cracks in the leather?
Cracks are often caused by dryness or excessive strain. You can avoid them by regularly treating the leather with grease or oil and not putting too much strain on the harness. A regular check of the leather quality is also helpful to recognise problems at an early stage.
What to do if the crockery gets mouldy?
If mould appears, clean the leather as quickly as possible with a product specially designed for this purpose. You should then allow it to dry thoroughly and ensure that it is stored in a dry, well-ventilated room in future to prevent mould growth.
Should I look after my harness differently in winter?
In winter, it is particularly important to care for your harness regularly, as cold and moisture can harden the leather and make it brittle. Use products that are suitable for extreme weather conditions to optimally protect your harness. More frequent inspections are also advisable to recognise winter wear in good time.
