What causes leather tack to dry out even when it is stored indoors?

Read time: 3 minutes

Overview

Leather tack can dry out indoors because indoor storage is not always as stable as it seems. Central heating, low humidity, poor cleaning, old sweat and dirt, or leather that has already started to age can all leave it stiff, dull or cracked.

In many cases, the issue is about storage conditions and routine care rather than one single fault. A quick check of where the tack is kept, how it has been cleaned, and how often it is conditioned can usually point you in the right direction.

Things To Check

1. Check whether the tack is stored near radiators, heaters, boiler cupboards, dehumidifiers or direct sunlight.

2. Look for white marks, stiffness, flaking, fine surface cracks or areas that feel rougher than the rest.

3. Think about how the tack is cleaned after use, especially if sweat, dust or old polish may have been left behind.

4. Check whether the leather has been over-cleaned with strong soap, detergent or very hot water.

5. Make sure the tack is not being folded, hung under tension or stored in a way that creases the same areas repeatedly.

6. See whether other leather items stored in the same place are also drying out, which can point to the room conditions.

7. Check the age and condition of the tack, as older leather can become dry more quickly even with regular care.

Common Causes

The most common cause is low humidity indoors, especially if the tack is stored in a warm room or near heat sources. Leather can slowly lose natural oils in these conditions.

Inadequate cleaning is another common reason. Sweat, dirt and old product build-up can stop leather from staying supple and may make it feel dry or brittle.

Using the wrong cleaning method can also contribute. Harsh soaps, too much water, or cleaning too often without reconditioning afterwards may leave leather stripped and dry.

Less commonly, the leather may simply be older, thinner or of lower resilience, so it shows wear more quickly even in decent storage conditions.

What To Do

Move the tack away from direct heat and strong sunlight if possible, and keep it in a place with steadier temperature and humidity.

Clean off sweat, dust and old residue using a leather-safe routine that suits the type of tack, then let it dry naturally before storing it.

Recondition the leather in small amounts and build up gradually rather than soaking it. Too much product at once can leave leather greasy without really improving its condition.

Store saddles, bridles and straps on suitable supports so they keep their shape and do not crease unnecessarily.

If the leather is already cracking deeply, feels weak, or the stitching and fittings are affected, it may be safer to stop using it until it has been assessed or replaced.

Products That May Help

If you are reviewing your tack care routine, a dedicated leather care range may help you keep cleaning and conditioning consistent without overdoing it.

Leather & Tack Care

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