You want the best for your horses but don’t have time to constantly replace blankets or worry about how well they protect your horse from the elements.
Don’t worry! We’ve got you covered with our guide on how to waterproof horse blankets.
With this step-by-step guide, you’ll learn the exact technique to waterproof your horse’s blankets so they stay protected in any weather.
We will guide you in choosing the best waterproofing products, applying them properly, and maintaining your blankets so they keep performing.
So give yourself peace of mind, and let’s look at the solutions for waterproofing your horse’s blankets.
5 Reasons Why You Need to Waterproof Horse Blankets?
1. To protect the horse from rain, sleet, and snow:
Waterproofing a blanket helps to ensure that your horse is kept warm and dry when out in inclement weather.
Horses can’t stay dry independently and need your help to keep them comfortable and warm outdoors. They can’t hold against cold and wet weather, and a blanket will provide additional protection from the elements.
2. To protect the blanket from rain and mud:
Waterproofing your horse’s blanket will protect it from getting soaked in the rain or mud. This will help preserve it for longer, ensuring you get more use out of your investment.
Waterproofing also helps keep dirt and other debris from sticking to the blanket’s material, making cleaning easier.
3. To prevent mold and mildew growth:
Mold and mildew can be problematic in blankets that aren’t waterproofed. The moisture from rain and mud can provide the perfect breeding ground for these fungi, and their presence can cause health issues for your horse.
Waterproofing helps to keep these organisms from building up, allowing you and your horse to enjoy the blanket without worry.
4. To add extra insulation:
Waterproofing your horse’s blanket can provide an extra layer of insulation, helping to keep your horse warm even in the harshest weather.
This can be especially important during cold winter months when you need all the help you can get to keep your horse warm and comfortable.
5. To increase longevity:
Waterproofing a horse blanket helps it last longer because it prevents water absorption. Water absorbed into your horse’s blanket can shorten its lifespan as it quickly wears out the material.
Waterproofing your blanket can help you get many years of use out of it, saving you the cost and hassle of replacing it too often.
By waterproofing your horse’s blanket, you can help protect them from the elements while also increasing its longevity. So if you’re thinking about waterproofing your horse blanket, look for the guided steps we’ve provided below.
6 Simple Steps on How to Waterproof Horse Blankets
Step 1: Clean the blanket thoroughly.
Before you waterproof the blanket, it’s important to clean it properly. Use a gentle detergent and warm water to remove dirt, debris, or sweat from the blanket. Allow it to dry completely before moving on to the next step.
Step 2: Apply a good waterproofing spray or wax.
Once the blanket is completely dry, you’ll want to apply a good waterproofing spray or wax. Look for a product specifically designed for horse blankets and follow the instructions on the label carefully.
Step 3: Spray on evenly.
Slowly and evenly apply the waterproofing spray or wax to the entire blanket, taking care not to miss any spots. If you are using a spray, ensure that the nozzle is at least 8 inches away from the material to ensure an even application.
Step 4: Allow the waterproofing to dry.
After applying the waterproofing spray or wax, let it dry completely before using the blanket on your horse. Depending on the product and the temperature, this could take anywhere from a few hours to a couple of days.
Step 5: Reapply as needed.
Check your horse’s blanket often. See if it has any wear or damage. Depending on the weather and how much time your horse spends outside, you might need to put waterproofing on it again.
Step 6: Store the blanket properly.
When you are not using the blanket, it’s important to store it properly to help preserve its waterproofing. Avoid storing the blanket in direct sunlight or an area that is too cold or damp.
Also, ensure the blanket is completely dry before putting it away, as moisture can damage the waterproofing.
Following these steps can help keep your horse’s blanket waterproof and in top condition for years. That way, your horse can stay comfortable and dry in any weather.
Choosing Waterproofing Product for Your Horse Blankets:
Check if the Product is Suitable For the Blanket Fabric:
Read the label when you buy something to make your horse’s blanket waterproof. Make sure it is made for the fabric your blanket is made from.
Certain products may not be suitable for certain fabrics, so it’s important to read all the information on the label before purchasing.
Make Sure it’s Water-Based:
Look for a water-based product to ensure that it is safe to use on your horse’s blanket. Water-based waterproofing products are easy to apply and will not leave a messy residue.
You should look for a product that contains no harsh chemicals or solvents, as these can harm your horse’s coat.
Check for an Odorless Product:
Many waterproofing products have strong odors, and horses have sensitive noses. You should look for an odorless product, as this will help reduce any unpleasant smells associated with the waterproofing process.
This will ensure that you and your horse won’t be distracted by a strong smell while working with the blanket.
Check if the Product is Pet-friendly:
When selecting a waterproofing product, select one that is pet-friendly. You should look for a product that contains no harsh chemicals or solvents, as these can harm your horse’s coat. Also, check that it is not toxic.
Make Sure the Product is Breathable:
Your horse’s blanket needs to be breathable to stay dry and comfortable in all weather conditions.
A good waterproofing product will help ensure your horse’s blanket stays breathable, allowing air to move freely between the fabric and the coat. This will help keep your horse cool in the summer and warm in the winter.
Consider Reviews:
Before purchasing a waterproofing product, it’s important to do your research and read customer reviews. Doing this will help you choose the best product for your horse’s blanket.
Reading reviews will also help you identify products that may have performance issues or be difficult to apply.
Use these tips to pick the best waterproofing product for your horse’s blanket. It will ensure your horse stays dry and comfortable, even in bad weather!
How to Maintain a Horse Blanket After Waterproofing?
After waterproofing a horse blanket, it is important to maintain the coat’s protection. Proper maintenance will help your horse remain dry and comfortable in all weather conditions. To start, brush off any dirt or debris immediately after use.
This helps to prevent fibers from clumping and adds to the life of the coat. When the blanket is dry, brush it thoroughly to remove all built-up dirt and debris. Make sure to get into seams and difficult spots like the neck area.
When storing the blanket, ensure it is completely dry before hanging or folding it. This will help prevent mildew from forming on the fabric and decrease wear. It’s also best to avoid direct sunlight when storing the coat.
Regularly cleaning and maintaining your blanket will ensure that it will remain waterproof and keep your horse comfortable. If you notice any signs of wear or damage, it is important to replace the blanket quickly.
Overall
Waterproofing a horse’s blanket is an important step to ensure the comfort of your animal. When selecting a product for waterproofing, make sure it is water-based and odorless with no harsh chemicals or solvents.
Additionally, you should look for pet-friendly and breathable products so air can move freely between the fabric and coat.
Now that you know how to waterproof horse blankets, why not give it a try today? If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out for help.
Happy waterproofing! 🙂