Damp, mould and tack: what to do next

Pause before cleaning

Take the item out of regular use and photograph what you found. Note when it was last checked and which nearby items were stored with it. A cleaned surface is not evidence that the underlying leather or stitching is sound.

Carr & Day & Martin warns that mould can affect the leather fibres and advises separating affected tack from other items. Follow the saddle maker's cleaning guidance and the instructions for any compatible product. Do not combine household chemicals or assume a method intended for one finish is suitable for another.

Check the place as well as the saddle

• Look for a recent leak or wet item stored beside the tack.
• Check the back of a cupboard and the underside of any cover.
• Note whether the problem affects one position or the whole room.
• Tell the yard owner about building defects before returning equipment.
• Write down the action taken and arrange a further inspection.

This is a practical investigation list, not a diagnosis of the building. If damp keeps returning, ask an appropriate building professional about the cause. Buying another leather product will not repair a roof or explain condensation inside a cupboard.

Decide whether professional inspection is needed

If leather, stitching or attachments look questionable, ask a saddler before using them. Village Saddlery says defective stitching needs prompt repair and tack should be checked whenever it is used. Tell the saddler how long the equipment was stored and show the photographs from before cleaning.

Storage won't fix a saddle that doesn't fit. Have your saddle checked by a qualified saddle fitter (Society of Master Saddlers register), especially after it's been stored for a long time.

Damaged, mouldy or stiff tack can rub or break. Check stitching and leather before every ride, and ask your saddler or vet if your horse shows soreness.

Once the storage problem has been addressed, use our saddle storage checklist to establish a new routine.