When should I worry about mould damage on horse leather tack? | arlo.® Atlas
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Overview
If mould is only on the surface, the tack may often be cleaned and dried safely. You should worry more if the leather feels weak, smells strongly musty even after cleaning, has deep staining, or starts cracking, peeling or losing shape, because that can mean the tack is no longer reliable to use.
Mould usually points to damp storage or poor air flow, but other factors can be involved too. The key is to check both the leather itself and how it has been stored before deciding whether it’s still usable.
Things To Check
1. Check whether the mould is just a light surface film or whether it has left dark staining, cracking or a powdery layer that keeps returning.
2. Feel the leather for stiffness, flaking, softness in the wrong places, or areas that seem thinner than the rest.
3. Look at stitching, buckles, holes and straps for weakness, rust, mould build-up or any sign that the tack is coming apart.
4. Smell the tack. A slight damp smell may improve with airing, but a strong musty smell that lingers can suggest ongoing moisture problems.
5. Check where the tack has been stored for damp walls, poor ventilation, closed cases, saddle covers holding moisture, or direct contact with wet kit.
6. Compare affected areas with the rest of the tack. If only one section is damaged, it may be localised. If several parts are affected, the whole item may need closer inspection.
7. Make sure any signs you see are not from sweat, dirt or old conditioning products, which can sometimes look like mould at first glance.
Common Causes
The most common cause is damp storage, especially if tack has been put away before it was fully dry.
Poor ventilation in tack rooms, cases or cupboards can let moisture sit on the leather and encourage mould growth.
Dirty tack can also hold sweat and grime, which gives mould more to feed on and makes leather harder to keep in good condition.
Less commonly, repeated drying next to heat sources can leave leather brittle, so it may look damaged even if the mould itself was only mild.
In some cases, older leather has simply reached a point where it no longer copes well with moisture and starts to break down more easily.
What To Do
Take the tack out of use until you’ve checked it properly. If the mould is light, brush off loose debris gently outdoors first, then clean the leather using your normal tack care routine and let it dry naturally in a well-ventilated space.
After cleaning, condition the leather if it feels dry, but avoid overloading it with product. Too much moisture or oil can make storage problems worse if the tack is still kept in a damp place.
Move the tack to a drier, better aired area and check rugs, saddle cloths, brushes and storage cases nearby, as these can all hold damp. If the same issue keeps coming back, look at the storage environment rather than just the leather itself.
If the leather is cracked, sticky, warped, or the stitching and fittings look compromised, stop using that item until it has been inspected by a qualified saddler or replaced.
When To Contact A Vet
A vet is not usually needed for mould on tack unless your horse has had direct contact with mouldy equipment and then shows skin irritation, hair loss, rubbing, or sores afterwards. If that happens, it’s worth getting the skin checked so you can rule out a reaction or secondary infection.
Products That May Help
If you’re looking after leather tack that has been affected by damp storage, this collection can help support a sensible cleaning and care routine.
Related Questions
Can I still use tack if it has a bit of mould on it?
How do I stop leather tack going mouldy in storage?
When should I replace mould-damaged tack instead of cleaning it?
Atlas is here to support owners with practical, easy-to-understand guidance. It is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If you're concerned about your animal's health, symptoms worsen, or something doesn't feel right, contact your vet.