How to Store Tack Like a Pro
Whether you're a casual weekend rider exploring trails or a seasoned equestrian competing at top levels, the way you store your tack plays a pivotal role in your riding experience. Your tack—saddles, bridles, bits, pads, and accessories—is more than just gear. It’s an investment in your safety, your horse’s comfort, and your overall enjoyment in the saddle. Yet, it’s often overlooked when it comes to daily care and storage.
Poorly stored tack can lead to cracked leather, mold, rusted bits, or even lost or damaged pieces—turning pre-ride prep into a frustrating scramble. On the flip side, a well-maintained, thoughtfully organized tack room can turn your barn routine into a smooth, satisfying process. It helps you keep track of everything, extend the life of your equipment, and ensures you’re always ready to ride with confidence.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll show you how to store tack like a pro—whether you're organizing a full tack room, a compact corner in your barn, or a mobile setup. From cleaning best practices to clever storage solutions and layout strategies, you’ll learn how to protect your gear, optimize your space, and ride with peace of mind.
1. Start with Clean, Conditioned Tack
The foundation of professional tack storage begins with cleanliness. Before placing any tack into storage—whether short-term between rides or long-term during off-seasons—it’s essential to thoroughly clean and condition each piece. Dirt, sweat, hair, and grime can cause significant damage over time, breaking down leather fibers and corroding metal components.
Leather Tack:
Start by wiping down leather gear (saddles, bridles, girths) with a damp, soft cloth to remove surface debris. Next, use a specialized leather cleaner or traditional glycerin soap to remove embedded dirt and sweat. Pay close attention to areas that contact the horse or rider, like stirrup leathers, reins, and girth points, as these tend to accumulate the most buildup.
Once clean, apply a high-quality leather conditioner to maintain suppleness and prevent cracking. Use a soft sponge or your hands to gently work it into the leather, and allow it to absorb fully before putting the tack away. Conditioning also helps protect against dryness caused by fluctuating temperatures and humidity.
Metal Hardware and Bits:
Bits, buckles, and metal fixtures should be cleaned with warm water and a mild soap to remove saliva and debris. Dry them thoroughly to prevent rust. Polishing with a soft cloth adds a final touch that keeps gear looking professional and ready for use.
Synthetic Tack:
Though easier to maintain, synthetic tack still benefits from regular cleaning. Use warm water and a non-abrasive cleaner, then allow the pieces to air dry fully before storage.
Pro Tip: Never store dirty tack. Moisture and bacteria trapped in grime can degrade leather, create unpleasant odors, and pose a risk of skin irritation to your horse. Clean tack not only lasts longer but also ensures comfort and safety for both rider and horse.
2. Choose the Right Environment
Where you store your tack is just as important as how you store it. Leather and metal components are sensitive to environmental changes, and improper conditions can lead to mold, mildew, rust, or cracking.
Ideal Tack Room Conditions:
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Temperature: 50–70°F (10–21°C)
- Humidity: 40–60% to prevent both drying out and mold growth
Avoid:
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Direct sunlight, which can bleach and dry leather
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Damp or uninsulated areas, which encourage mildew and rust
- Unheated garages or barns with major temperature swings
If your tack room doesn’t meet these standards naturally, consider:
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Dehumidifiers or climate control systems for consistent conditions
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Silica gel packs or moisture-absorbing containers in trunks and enclosed cabinets
- Installing insulation and weatherstripping for improved temperature regulation
A climate-controlled environment not only extends the life of your tack but also makes the space more pleasant to work in year-round.
3. Use Specialized Storage Solutions
To store tack like a professional, it’s important to use purpose-built storage equipment. These items are designed to support gear properly and preserve its structure and longevity.
Saddle Racks:
Opt for padded or anatomically-shaped racks that mirror the curve of the saddle tree. Avoid narrow or flat bars that can distort the panels over time. If space is limited, consider wall-mounted folding racks.
Bridle Hooks:
Curved hooks or rounded arms distribute pressure evenly and prevent deep creases in headstalls. Hanging bridles by the crownpiece ensures they keep their shape and remain untangled.
Tack Trunks:
A sturdy, compartmentalized trunk helps you keep grooming supplies, tools, gloves, wraps, and small tack items neatly contained. Choose models with separate compartments for better organization and to avoid metal contact that could cause scratching or corrosion.
Wall Panels & Pegboards:
Customizable wall systems make it easy to store halters, leads, martingales, spurs, and more. Use labeled bins or pouches for accessories and regularly used items, keeping everything visible and within reach.
4. Organize by Use and Season
A professional tack room isn’t just tidy—it’s efficient. One of the best strategies is to organize your equipment by function and frequency of use.
Everyday Use vs. Show Gear:
Keep frequently used tack within easy reach—perhaps on open racks or lower shelves. Store show or specialty items in dust bags or covers to protect them from wear and fading.
Seasonal Rotation:
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In summer, have fly gear, lightweight pads, and cooling wraps accessible.
- In winter, rotate in blankets, warm girths, and fleece-lined accessories.
Storage Tips:
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Use breathable fabric covers (never plastic) to protect from dust without trapping moisture.
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Label bins and shelves clearly, especially in shared spaces.
- Implement color-coded tags or bags to identify gear by horse, discipline, or purpose (e.g., “Trail,” “Jumping,” “Show Only”).
This system not only protects your investment but also streamlines your daily routine, saving time and minimizing stress before rides or competitions.
5. Regular Maintenance
Even when stored properly, tack requires routine checkups to stay in top condition. Leather, metal, and stitching naturally age and degrade, even when not in daily use. That’s why monthly maintenance is essential.
Inspection Checklist:
Leather: Look for signs of dryness, cracking, or mold. Lightly clean and recondition if needed.
Stitching: Pay attention to areas under stress, such as girth billets, reins, and stirrup leathers. Fraying or loose threads should be repaired immediately to avoid breakage during use.
Metal Fittings: Wipe down bits, buckles, stirrup irons, and decorative hardware to prevent tarnish and rust. For brass or stainless steel, a gentle polish can restore shine.
Pro Tip: Keep a small maintenance kit in your tack room with essentials like leather balm, tack sponge, stitching awl, and a multi-tool for quick fixes.
6. Travel & Show Prep Storage
Traveling with tack presents its own challenges. To store gear like a seasoned competitor, prioritize portability, protection, and ease of access.
Smart Show Storage Tools:
Foldable Bridle Racks: Compact and easy to set up in stall fronts or trailers.
Stackable Bins: Ideal for organizing grooming tools, wraps, first aid supplies, and miscellaneous items.
Travel Grooming Kits: Choose durable kits with multiple compartments and waterproof lining.
Waterproof Tack Bags: Protect saddles, bridles, and girths from rain, dust, and transport jostling. Look for padded options with handles and shoulder straps for ease.
Extra Tip: Prepare a pre-show checklist and keep it in your tack box to avoid last-minute scrambles.
7. Keep It Safe
Your tack is not just functional—it’s valuable. High-end saddles, customized bridles, and personalized accessories deserve extra protection.
- Security Measures: Lockable Tack Trunks: Ideal for storing prized items, especially in shared barns or at showgrounds.
- Secured Tack Room: Install locks or keypads on tack room doors and keep inventory access limited to trusted staff.
- RFID Tags or QR Labels: For large barns or riding academies, inventory systems using smart tags can help track gear, reduce loss, and simplify management.
Whether it’s safeguarding heirloom-quality bridles or simply keeping track of your daily essentials, smart security ensures peace of mind—so you can focus on your ride.
Storing your tack like a pro isn’t just about appearances—it’s about protecting your investment, streamlining your routine, and elevating the entire riding experience. With thoughtful planning, regular maintenance, and smart storage solutions, your tack room can transform into a space that reflects both your discipline and your passion. Whether you're preparing for a show or simply enjoying time at the barn, an organized and well-maintained setup ensures that your gear is always ready—just like you.
