STEP 01 • BEFORE THE FIRST RIDE
TEST FIRST
Test a small, inconspicuous area to confirm colorfastness.
APPLY LIGHTLY
Apply light, even coats to the woven wool according to the manufacturer's directions. Avoid oversaturating the pad.
PROTECT THE LEATHER
Do not apply Scotchgard™ Fabric Water Shield to the wear leathers. Shield the leather while spraying the wool, then allow the pad to dry completely before use.
Already using your pad? It can still be treated once the wool is clean and completely dry.
STEP 02 • AFTER EVERY RIDE
A few simple habits after each ride can help keep your Saguaro pad clean and ready for its next use.
Use a shop vacuum to remove loose horse hair, dust, and dirt. You can also use an air compressor or compressed-air blower to blow debris from the wool. Avoid picking or pulling at embedded hair, as wool yarns can pull when snagged.
Normal horse sweat and everyday moisture are expected. After use, allow your pad to air out naturally rather than immediately enclosing it in a pad protector or carrying case.
Before storing or covering your pad, make sure it is completely dry. Never store your pad while damp.
STEP 03 • WHEN CLEANING IS NEEDED
Saguaro pads are woven with dyed wool yarns. When cleaning is necessary, use as little moisture as possible and avoid saturating the pad.
When cleaning is necessary, use minimal moisture and carefully spot clean only the affected area rather than washing the entire pad. Test cleaning products on a small, inconspicuous area first.
Do not soak, hose, pressure wash, machine wash, or submerge your pad. Excessive moisture can increase the risk of color bleeding or dye migration, particularly where dark colors are woven beside lighter colors.
If your pad becomes very wet, place it in a well-ventilated area and allow it to dry naturally and completely. Do not machine dry, apply concentrated heat, or aggressively rub wet wool. While wet, avoid placing the pad against other fabrics or surfaces that could be affected by possible color transfer.
Some color transfer can occur with dyed wool when heavily saturated. This does not necessarily indicate a defect.
STEP 04 • IF A YARN END APPEARS
Because Saguaro pads are woven from individual wool yarns, you may occasionally notice a small yarn end protruding from the surface. As colors and shapes change throughout the woven pattern, one yarn ends and another begins. These secured yarn ends can occasionally work their way to the surface with normal use. This does not mean your pad is unraveling or damaged.
Never pull on a protruding yarn. Pulling can unnecessarily disturb the surrounding weave.
Use sharp scissors and hold them flat and parallel to the surface of the pad.
Carefully trim the protruding yarn as close to the woven surface as possible. Trimming the exposed end will not affect the integrity of the pad or cause it to unravel.
Not sure what you're seeing? Send us a clear photo before trimming it, and we'll be happy to take a look.
STEP 05 • BETWEEN RIDES
Proper storage and transportation help protect the shape, weave, and wear leathers of your Saguaro pad.
Store your pad in a clean, dry area away from prolonged direct sunlight and excessive humidity. Avoid tightly folding, crushing, or stacking heavy items on top of it. Give the pad enough space to maintain its natural shape.
Saguaro Show Pads include a complimentary pad protector designed to help keep dust, dirt, and debris off your pad between uses. The built-in handle adds convenience, but the protector is intended primarily as a protective cover rather than a heavy-duty travel case.
For frequent hauling and showing, our embroidered carrying cases provide additional protection during transportation. The carrying cases feature mesh sides for increased airflow and are designed specifically for carrying and traveling with your pad.
STEP 06 • AS NEEDED
The leather wear patches on your Saguaro pad are genuine leather. A little routine care helps keep them clean, conditioned, and looking their best.
After use, wipe away dust and surface dirt with a soft, dry cloth. For heavier buildup, use a slightly damp cloth and allow the leather to air dry naturally.
When the leather begins to feel dry, apply a small amount of quality leather conditioner with a clean cloth. Use light coats rather than saturating the leather.
When cleaning or conditioning the wear leathers, keep leather-care products on the leather and away from the woven wool. Oils and conditioners may darken or stain wool yarns.
Genuine leather naturally develops character with use. Slight changes in color, texture, and finish over time are normal.
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