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Grubby Rugs - Care Tips
We are only too aware that horses and their equipment are expensive. The cost of rugs and tack alone can run into thousands. Yet sometimes we are presented with mud encrusted top of the range rugs that have been left all summer in the corner of a tack room to fall victim to mildew and rodents. Rug linings are often matted with sweat and or shed hair and many rugs have minor damage that is hidden by grime.
Sometimes the need for cleaning and repair does not become apparent until the end of the year when the rugs are brought out again for re-use. The problem is then the workload is too busy that we get inundated with URGENT last minute requests. In the Autumn we are unable to process orders in such a short space of time.
The best time to send your Winter rugs to be cleaned is in the Spring and Summer when they are no longer needed. They can then be returned to you in a restored condition and neatly packed ready for storage.
This is also a good time to check for any alterations or adjustments that may need doing.
Please be specific when asking for repairs, unless instructed otherwise ALL repairs will be undertaken. Likewise, if repairs are not requested then none will be done. So please check your rugs carefully and be specific with all your requirements.
To Proof or not to Proof
Even if your rug is not very old, if your horse rolls a lot and or rubs against walls and fences, these actions all contribute to breaking down the waterproofing properties. Soil and sand contain abrasive particles that get into the fibres and rubs & scatches damage the outer shell.
For a small outlay you will have extra protection and peace of mind.
Please remember that no amount of proofing will protect 100% against prolonged exposure to the British weather. It is always advisable to have a spare and not to expect to go through the Winter with just one rug.
Hang your rugs up regularly to air and dry out. Damage can be caused to the materials when rugs are left wet. Mould and mildew rot the materials and the buckles will also rust and disintegrate. All this mixed with the sweat hair and wet muddy conditions, provides a cocktail of disaster for your expensive rugs.
When it is particularly muddy it is advisable to remove the excess and dry the rug. Never leave your rugs wet. It doesn't take long for the damage to happen. Try leaving a pair of muddy jeans in a bag in a damp wet corner somewhere and you will see how quickly the damage accurs!