Spring Clean Your Tack Room Like a Pro 🌸🧼

As equestrians, we know the tack room is the heart of the stable. It holds everything we need to care for our horses and enjoy our rides — but it can also become a chaotic catch-all, especially after a long, messy winter. With spring in full swing and show season just around the corner, there's no better time to give this vital space the attention it deserves.

Whether you’re prepping for pony camp, gearing up for eventing season, or just enjoying more daylight in the saddle, a clean, organized tack room sets the tone for a smooth and stress-free spring and summer.

Step 1: Empty the Room (or at Least the Shelves)

Let’s face it — tack rooms are magnets for extra gear. Over the winter months, it’s easy to stash things away with the best intentions, only to forget what’s hiding on the back shelf. Start by removing as much as you can from the space — or at the very least, clear off the shelves and bridle racks.

Sort your gear into three simple categories:

• Use Now: Items you’ll need throughout spring and summer.

• Use Later: Winter gear that can be stored until next season.

• No Longer Use: Broken or unused items that need to be donated, repaired, sold, or tossed.

Don’t be afraid to be ruthless here — if something hasn’t seen daylight in two years, it’s probably time to let it go!

Step 2: Deep Clean Your Equipment

Winter grime lingers long into spring — mud, dust, and hair cling to every surface. Now’s the time to give your equipment the deep clean it deserves.

• Leather items like saddles, bridles, and reins should be cleaned and conditioned to preserve their lifespan and keep them supple.

• Fabric gear (like saddle pads and wraps) should be de-haired and washed. Most items can be laundered at home, but bigger pieces like blankets may need to be sent out to a professional wash service.

• Plastic or synthetic gear should be wiped down with disinfectant to remove germs, mold, and mildew.

Let everything dry thoroughly before moving it back into the tack room.

Step 3: Clean the Room Top to Bottom

With your gear out of the way, now’s your chance to tackle the room itself. Start from the ceiling and work your way down:

• Remove cobwebs and debris from the ceiling, rafters, and light fixtures.

• Wipe down shelves, bridle hooks, and bin lids.

• Sweep (and mop, if needed) the floor. Don’t forget corners and under shelving units — winter mud and hay bits love to hide there.

This step is often skipped, but it makes a huge difference in how fresh and functional your tack room feels.

Step 4: Organize and Restock Thoughtfully

Now that everything is clean, it’s time to bring your gear back in — with purpose.

• Create designated zones for items: one for daily-use tack, one for grooming supplies, one for barn tools, etc.

• Use vertical space smartly: High and low shelves are great for out-of-season gear like heavy winter blankets or quarter sheets.

• Label bins and hooks to help everyone in the barn find what they need quickly.

Most importantly, keep your frequently used items within easy reach. You’ll save yourself (and your barn friends) loads of time during busy riding days.

Bonus Tip for 2025: Invest in Smart Storage

This year, more equestrians are turning to smart solutions for storage — think clear labeled bins, weatherproof blanket bags, magnetic wall racks, and even app-controlled tack lockers. If you're upgrading your space this year, consider options that offer long-term convenience and protection for your gear.

Taking time now to declutter and refresh your tack room will pay off all season long. Whether you're heading to the ring, the trail, or just out for a relaxed ride, having a clean and functional space sets the tone for a more enjoyable experience with your horse.

Happy cleaning — and even happier riding!