How you can waterproof horse rugs – H&H’s final information

We all know the the great outdated British climate is all the time positive to dish out some moist and wild climate, so it’s probably that many horses will put on turnout rugs sooner or later. So, to assist your horse or pony stay heat and dry, right here is our full information on how one can waterproof horse rugs…

How are rugs waterproofed?

When most rugs are made, a water-resistant membrane is utilized to the underside of the material to supply the waterproof high quality. How waterproof the rug stays, each initially and over time, relies upon an excellent deal on the standard of this membrane, as the standard additionally marks the distinction between cheaper and costlier rugs .

One of the best ways to test your rug is waterproof is to make use of a sink or massive tub, lay the rug excessive and create a small indent – make sure you select an space of the rug with no fittings. Then pour a glass or two of water into the indent and permit the water to pool. The denier layer ought to maintain the water and never permit any seepage to the within.

How you can waterproof horse rugs

Firstly, cleansing is vital relating to rug care and preserving your rugs in the absolute best situation.

Correct care merchandise and strategies are vital. Many rug producers present cleansing directions for every particular person rug, and you must stick to those directions as typical detergents depart behind residues that hurt water-repellency.

Some producers suggest washing your rugs in a specifically designed wash bag, which will help to stop the breakage of any straps, pockets, and buckles which are connected to the rug.

By no means use material softener, because it deteriorates the rug’s breathability, water-repellency, and wicking capabilities.

Water-repellency gained’t final endlessly. Over time, the factory-applied water-repellency will put on off, however you shouldn’t throw your rugs away at this level, as you may clear them completely after which re-add water-repellency, whereas sustaining breathability.

There are various water repellent sprays, such because the Lincoln waterproofing aerosol, and washes, comparable to this product from Nikwax, particularly formulated for horse blankets accessible in the marketplace.

Skilled rug cleaners suggest that you simply waterproof and re-waterproof your rugs as soon as annually utilizing equestrian rug waterproofing brokers. Alternatively, you may ship your rugs to a rug cleaner and waterproofing specialist, the place they may deal with your rugs for you.

Tips about waterproofing a horse rug – and how one can hold it waterproof

• Machine wash artificial rugs with warning, following the rug producer’s directions in addition to checking the capability of your washer.
• Solely use chilly water when washing an artificial rug to assist forestall damaging the membrane – you’ll spoil the waterproofing totally in case you use scorching or heat water
• Keep away from utilizing detergents or any kind of chemical on artificial waterproof rugs as this may injury the waterproofing membrane.
• Don’t use excessive stress when washing your rugs as it should injury the rug pores and can permit water to leak by instantly.
• By no means use a harsh bristled brush to clean the outer denier, you may spike the membrane
• By no means put a rug away damp or sweaty for lengthy durations of time. Mould will eat away on the membrane over time.
• UV will ultimately have an effect on the liner over a protracted time period. When rugs aren’t getting used, keep away from leaving them out in direct solar for days or even weeks at a time.
• Earlier than storing your rug away, guarantee it’s dry and at room temperature. Don’t take immediately from a heat sunny clothesline and pack it away, as this may be detrimental to the waterproofing membrane. Enable the rug to chill down and air at room temperature for just a few hours earlier than storing.
• As soon as your rug is able to be saved, folding them into massive laundry baggage will assist to maintain them clear, dry and safe.

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H&H options, racing and point-to-point editor

Gemma is an skilled journalist, having been a part of the H&H crew since 2014, who’s obsessed with all equestrian sports activities, together with racing and point-to-pointing. She has loved driving out for prime trainers Nicky Henderson and Charlie Appleby and took half in a charity Flat race at in August 2018. Gemma’s reporting skills have taken her to quite a few five-star occasions round Britain and Europe, in addition to European championships.