How to store horse blankets: A complete guide for horse owners.

A quality horse blanket represents a significant investment. With heavy-weight turnouts costing $200 or more and even lightweight sheets running $50-$100, replacing your horse's wardrobe every few years isn't practical or budget-friendly. The good news? Proper storage can extend the life of your blankets by years, sometimes decades.

At Kensington, we've spent over 70 years protecting horses with durable gear designed to last. We know that how you store your blankets matters just as much as how you use them. This guide covers everything you need to know about storing horse blankets, from cleaning and folding to choosing the right storage solution for your barn.

Why proper horse blanket storage matters

Storing blankets correctly isn't just about organization, though a tidy tack room certainly helps. The real stakes are higher: your horse's health and your wallet.

Mold and mildew prevention. Blankets stored damp or in humid environments develop mold and mildew quickly. These fungi don't just smell bad. They can cause skin irritation and respiratory issues for your horse. Worse, mold spreads. One damp blanket can contaminate an entire storage container.

Pest protection. Mice, rats, and insects love nesting in warm, undisturbed fabric. They chew through straps, urinate on insulation, and render expensive blankets unusable. Proper storage creates a barrier between your investment and these unwanted visitors.

Fabric preservation. UV exposure, extreme temperatures, and moisture all break down blanket materials over time. Turnout blankets lose their waterproofing. Stable blankets develop weak spots. Proper storage protects the technical fabrics that make modern blankets effective.

Organization and accessibility. When a cold snap hits or an unexpected storm rolls in, you need the right blanket now. Proper storage means knowing exactly where to find it, in the right size, clean and ready to use.

Preparing blankets for storage

Before you fold a single blanket, preparation is essential. Skipping these steps undermines everything that follows.

Clean before storing

Never store a dirty blanket. Dirt, sweat, and ammonia from urine break down fabric fibers and attract pests. You have two cleaning options:

Professional cleaning. Many areas have blanket washing services that pick up, clean, repair, and return your blankets. This is the easiest option and often the most thorough. Professional services typically charge $15-$40 per blanket depending on weight and condition.

DIY cleaning. If you prefer to wash blankets yourself:

• Brush off loose dirt and hair before washing

• Use a blanket-specific wash or colorless mild dish soap

• Wash in a commercial machine or large home washer on cool settings

• Never use fabric softener (it compromises waterproofing)

• Hang dry completely - never tumble dry (it compromises waterproofing)

Inspect for damage

Once clean and dry, examine each blanket thoroughly:

• Check all stitching for loose threads or separated seams

• Inspect buckles and clips for cracks or rust

• Look for tears in the outer shell and lining

• Test elastic leg straps for stretch and integrity

• Examine fleece at the withers for wear

Repair minor issues now. Small tears become large ones when blankets sit unused. Many blanket manufacturers offer replacement parts, or you can use a blanket repair kit for quick fixes.

Re-waterproof if needed

Turnout blankets lose waterproofing over time. Before storing, test yours by sprinkling water on the surface. If it soaks in rather than beading up, re-waterproofing is in order.

Spray-on waterproofers offer the best coverage for targeted areas. Apply to a clean, dry blanket following the product instructions, and allow adequate drying time before storage. Some professional cleaning services include re-waterproofing in their package.

How to fold horse blankets for storage

Proper folding prevents wrinkles, protects straps, and maximizes storage space. The technique differs slightly depending on your storage method.

Folding for long-term storage

This method creates a compact, rectangular package that fits neatly in bags or bins:

1. Lay the blanket on a clean, flat surface with the surcingle (belly band) side facing up

2. Fold the blanket at the spine so the belly side faces you

3. Bring the belly straps up and tuck them onto the blanket body to prevent tangling

4. Fold the back and front of the blanket toward the middle, reducing width by a third

5. Fold the bottom of the blanket up to the top

6. For lightweight sheets and coolers, fold once more for extra compactness

Folding for stall hanging

If you use blanket bars or racks during the season, this fold keeps blankets tidy and accessible:

1. Lay the blanket flat, folded at the spine with the belly band side up

2. Tuck belly straps onto the blanket body

3. Fold the blanket over so the spine and bottom edge meet

4. Pick up the blanket from the middle and fold in half

5. Fold in half again for a neat package that hangs well

The goal is a fold that stays put when hung and doesn't let straps dangle where they can catch or tangle.

Best horse blanket storage solutions

The right storage solution depends on your space, budget, and how often you access your blankets. Here are the most effective options, ranked by use case.

Storage bags

Best for: Long-term off-season storage

Breathable storage bags protect blankets from dust, pests, and moisture while allowing air circulation. Look for bags made from waterproof vinyl or heavy-duty canvas with secure closures.

Pros:

• Protect against moisture and pests

• Easy to label with horse name, size, and blanket weight

• Stackable when filled

• Reusable year after year

Cons:

• Quality bags cost $20-$40 each

• Take up more space than vacuum bags

• Not ideal for daily access

For the best protection, choose bags with reinforced seams and double-stitched handles. Some bags include clear windows for easy identification without opening.

Plastic totes and bins

Best for: Basements, tack rooms, and areas with rodent concerns

Heavy-duty plastic storage bins offer excellent protection against pests and moisture. They're stackable, durable, and widely available.

Pros:

• Completely pest-proof when sealed

• Stackable for efficient space use

• Inexpensive ($10-$25 per bin)

• Available in clear options for easy identification

Cons:

• Can trap moisture if blankets aren't completely dry

• Rigid shape doesn't accommodate odd-sized items well

• Plastic can become brittle in extreme temperatures

Choose bins with tight-fitting lids and consider adding desiccant packets for extra moisture control in humid climates. Label each bin clearly with contents to avoid unnecessary opening.

Vacuum-sealed bags

Best for: Limited storage space, maximum compression

Vacuum storage bags remove air to compress blankets into compact packages. They're particularly useful for storing multiple blankets in small spaces.

Pros:

• Reduce storage volume by 50-70%

• Protect against moisture, dust, and pests

• Work with any folding skill level

• Inexpensive per bag

Cons:

• Compression can affect insulation loft over time

• Bags can puncture and lose seal

• Not ideal for frequent access

• Requires vacuum or hand pump

As one horse owner on the Chronicle Forums noted: "I use large vacuum bags, and love them. I am not able to fold blankets into the pretty square that fits nicely into a trunk. The vacuum bag is very forgiving, and no matter your folding skill, you are left with a nice compact package."

Blanket racks and bars

Best for: Daily or seasonal use, active blanket rotation

Wall-mounted or portable blanket racks keep blankets accessible and allow air circulation. They're ideal for blankets in regular rotation.

Pros:

• Easy access to frequently used blankets

• Allows damp blankets to air dry

• Keeps blankets visible and organized

• Portable options available for shows and travel

Cons:

• Exposes blankets to dust and barn air

• Not suitable for long-term storage

• Requires wall space or stall front access

Options range from simple stall-front bars to elaborate rolling racks with multiple arms. Choose based on your space and how many blankets you need to keep accessible.

Stall front organizers

Best for: Small spaces, keeping daily-use blankets handy

Hanging organizers attach to stall doors or walls, providing enclosed storage without consuming floor space.

Pros:

• Space-efficient

• Protects blankets from barn dust

• Keeps daily-use items accessible

• Easy to move between stalls

Cons:

• Limited capacity (typically 1-2 blankets)

• Can block stall visibility

• Requires secure attachment to prevent swinging

These work well for horses with one or two daily-use blankets that you want protected but accessible.

Seasonal storage tips

Blanket storage needs change with the seasons. Here's how to handle transitions.

Spring and summer storage

When warm weather arrives, it's time to store winter gear:

• Clean all heavy blankets before storing

• Inspect for damage from winter use

• Repair or note needed repairs

• Store in cool, dry location away from direct sunlight

• Add moth repellents or cedar blocks for natural pest control

• Consider professional cleaning for heavily soiled items

Take time to organize by size and weight. When fall arrives, you'll thank yourself.

Fall and winter preparation

Before cold weather hits:

• Remove blankets from storage a week before needed

• Air out to eliminate any storage odors

• Inspect for damage that developed during storage

• Check fit (horses change shape over the off-season)

• Re-waterproof turnouts if needed

Don't wait until the first cold snap to discover a blanket needs repair.

Climate considerations

Your local climate affects storage needs:

Humid regions: Prioritize moisture control. Use desiccant packets in storage containers, ensure blankets are completely dry before storing, and check stored blankets monthly for mold signs.

Dry climates: Less concern about moisture, but dust is your enemy. Use sealed containers or bags even in dry areas.

Temperature extremes: Avoid storing blankets in uninsulated attics or sheds where temperatures swing wildly. Extreme heat can damage waterproof coatings. Extreme cold can make fabrics brittle.

Common horse blanket storage mistakes to avoid

Even experienced horse owners make these errors. Avoid them to protect your investment.

Storing damp blankets. This is the fastest way to ruin expensive gear. Even slightly damp blankets develop mold in sealed containers. When in doubt, hang blankets for an extra day to ensure complete dryness.

Using airtight containers without moisture control. Plastic bins seal tightly, which is great for pests but traps any residual moisture. Add desiccant packets and ensure blankets are bone dry before sealing.

Ignoring pest prevention. Mice can chew through fabric bags and even thin plastic. In barns with rodent issues, use heavy-duty plastic bins or metal storage trunks.

Folding with straps dangling. Loose straps tangle, catch on other blankets, and create wear points. Always tuck straps onto the blanket body before folding.

Storing in direct sunlight. UV rays degrade fabric and fade colors. Even in storage, keep blankets away from windows and direct sun exposure.

Forgetting to label. Unlabeled storage means opening every container to find what you need. Label with horse name, size, and blanket weight for easy identification.

Protecting your blanket investment

Proper storage aligns with a simple truth: quality horse gear is built to last. At Kensington, we've stood behind that belief since 1954 with our lifetime guarantee on protective products.

The same philosophy applies to your blankets. Whether you've invested in our Supermesh® or 1200D turnout blankets, or quality gear from another manufacturer, proper care extends usable life significantly. 

Textilene® fabrics, like those used in Kensington's protective gear, benefit particularly from proper storage. The specialized weave that provides 90% UV protection and 78% air permeability maintains its properties best when stored clean, dry, and protected from extreme temperatures.

Think of storage as the final step in your blanketing routine. Clean, inspect, repair, fold, and store properly. Your horse (and your budget) will thank you.

Keep your horse blankets ready for every season

Storing horse blankets properly isn't complicated, but it does require consistency. The key steps are simple: clean thoroughly, dry completely, inspect carefully, fold neatly, and store in appropriate containers for your climate and space.

Whether you choose storage bags, plastic bins, vacuum-sealed bags, or a combination, the goal is the same: protecting your investment so it's ready when your horse needs it.

At Kensington, we believe in shielding what matters most. That means building blankets that last and helping you care for them properly. Explore our winter turnout blankets and protective gear, all backed by our lifetime guarantee, and give your horse the protection they deserve season after season.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to store horse blankets for long-term off-season storage?

For long-term storage, use breathable storage bags or heavy-duty plastic bins with tight-fitting lids. Ensure blankets are completely clean and dry before storing. Add labels with horse name, size, and blanket weight for easy identification when you need them again.

Can I store horse blankets in plastic bins?

Yes, plastic storage bins are an excellent option for storing horse blankets. They keep out moisture, dust, and pests. Just make sure blankets are completely dry before sealing, and consider adding desiccant packets in humid climates to prevent trapped moisture.

How should I prepare horse blankets before storing them?

Always clean blankets before storage by washing according to manufacturer instructions or using a professional service. Inspect for damage and make repairs. Ensure blankets are 100% dry to prevent mold. For turnout blankets, test and refresh waterproofing if needed.

Is it okay to store damp horse blankets if I leave the container slightly open?

No. Even slightly damp blankets can develop mold and mildew, which spreads quickly and ruins fabric. Always hang blankets until completely dry before storing, even if that means an extra day of drying time.

What's the best way to store horse blankets if I have limited space?

Vacuum-sealed storage bags are ideal for limited space, reducing blanket volume by 50-70%. Alternatively, use stackable plastic bins or storage bags that can be slid under beds or stacked in closets. Prioritize storing only clean, dry blankets to maximize space efficiency.

How do I prevent pests from getting into stored horse blankets?

Use heavy-duty plastic bins with tight lids for the best pest protection. For fabric bags, ensure closures are secure and consider adding cedar blocks or moth repellents. Store containers off the floor when possible, and inspect stored blankets periodically for signs of pests.

Should I fold horse blankets differently for different storage methods?

Yes. For bins and bags, fold blankets into compact rectangles with straps tucked to prevent tangling. For hanging storage on racks or bars, fold blankets to create a neat package that stays put and doesn't let straps dangle where they can catch.