How to Inspect & Maintain Your Horse Blankets & Sheets for Longevity

Horse gear is an investment—and like any good investment, the better you care for it, the longer it will last. Blankets and sheets take a beating from weather, turnout antics, and daily wear, but with regular inspection and maintenance, you can extend their lifespan and keep your horse comfortable season after season.

Step 1: Regular Inspections

• Check fasteners & straps: Look for stretched or broken buckles and surcingles. Replace hardware before it fully gives out. 

• Examine seams: Reinforced stitching can loosen over time—catching small tears early prevents larger rips.

• Look for rub marks: Areas around the shoulders, chest, and withers often show early signs of wear.

Step 2: Proper Cleaning

• Frequent rinses: Shake out dirt and hair weekly; hose off sheets during fly season.

• Seasonal deep clean: Wash blankets at the end of winter and fly sheets at the end of summer. Use equine-safe detergents and always air dry to maintain waterproofing and fabric strength.

• Avoid fabric softeners: They weaken waterproofing and attract dirt.

Step 3: Smart Repairs

• Patch small tears immediately: Waiting lets the rip spread. Fabric repair kits are easy to keep on hand.

• Replace worn straps & Velcro: Don’t throw out a whole sheet for one damaged strap—most can be repaired or replaced. The surcingles and leg straps on our sheets and blankets are fully replaceable!

• Professional repairs: For larger jobs, local blanket repair services can restore gear for a fraction of the cost of buying new.

Step 4: Off-Season Storage

• Clean before storing: Dirt and sweat left behind can cause mold.

• Use storage bags or bins: Keeps pests, dust, and moisture out. Our Blanket Storage Bag is a perennial favorite for seasonal stall front storage!

• Label by size/weight: Saves time when blanket season rolls around again.

When to Repair vs Replace
If the fabric is heavily shredded, waterproofing is completely compromised, or the fit is no longer right for your horse, it may be time to invest in a replacement. Fortunately, high-quality blankets and sheets, when cared for properly, can last for many years. At Kensington, we stand behind our products with our Lifetime Guarantee, too!

Conclusion
A little routine maintenance goes a long way in preserving your horse’s gear. Regular inspection, timely cleaning, and smart storage not only extend the life of your blankets and fly sheets but also protect your investment. Best of all, your horse stays comfortable, protected, and ready for every season.