How to Wash and Care for a Horse Blanket

Posted by Mary's Tack & Feed on 28th Dec 2021

How to Wash a Horse Blanket: Expert Advice from Mary’s Tack and Feed

When it comes to caring for your horse’s gear, few items are as challenging as horse blankets. They’re big, bulky, and built to withstand tough weather — but that also means they need proper care. If you’ve ever wondered how to wash a horse blanket, whether you can clean waterproof horse blankets, or how to dry them without causing damage, you’re not alone.

At Mary’s Tack and Feed, our team of experienced riders and horse caretakers helps horse owners every day with blanket care questions. Below, we’re sharing expert tips to help your horse blankets last longer, perform better, and keep your horse comfortable all season long.

How Often Should You Wash a Horse Blanket?

One of the most common questions we hear is how often horse blankets should be washed. The answer: less is more.

In general, horse blankets only need a deep cleaning once per year, typically at the end of the winter season. Over-washing can wear down fabrics, weaken stitching, and damage waterproof coatings. Spot cleaning muddy or sweaty areas during the season is usually enough.

Can You Wash a Waterproof Horse Blanket?

Yes—you can wash a waterproof horse blanket, but it must be done carefully.

Heat and harsh detergents can break down waterproof coatings, so it’s essential to:

Use cold water
Choose a horse blanket–safe detergent
Avoid fabric softeners entirely

We suggest Orvus WA Paste, a blanket-specific paste designed to clean thoroughly while protecting waterproof and breathable materials, along with grooming brushes that make prep work easy.

How to Wash a Lightweight Horse Blanket or Sheet

Lightweight horse blankets, stable sheets, and coolers are usually safe for home washing machines if cleaned properly.

Step-by-Step: How to Wash a Horse Blanket at Home

Remove dry debris first
Hang the blanket over a fence or lay it flat outside and use a hard-bristled grooming brush to remove hair, dirt, and shavings.
Rinse with a hose
Hose off mud and grime to prevent clogging your washing machine.
Machine wash on gentle
Place the blanket in a mesh laundry bag to protect straps and buckles. Wash on a gentle cycle in cold water using a mild horse blanket detergent.
Air dry only
Hang the blanket on a clothesline, blanket bar or fence. Avoid dryers — heat can shrink fabric and ruin waterproof coatings.

Pro tip from our team: remove the blanket from the washer promptly to prevent mildew odors.

How to Wash a Heavy or Winter Horse Blanket

Heavy winter horse blankets are usually too large for standard washing machines. Hand washing is often the safest option.

How to Wash a Heavy Horse Blanket

Brush off hair and dirt using a stiff grooming brush.
Hose the blanket thoroughly with cold water.
Scrub gently using a blanket-safe detergent and circular motions.
Rinse completely until no soap remains.
Hang to air dry, allowing plenty of time before storage.

Keep your blankets and gear in top shape after washing with durable brushes, blanket cleaners, and deordorizers from Mary’s Tack & Feed.

When It’s Time to Replace a Horse Blanket

Sometimes, washing reveals what dirt was hiding — thin insulation, cracked waterproofing, or worn straps. If your blanket no longer keeps your horse warm and dry, it may be time for a replacement.

Mary’s Tack and Feed carries trusted horse blanket brands along with all the tack, grooming tools, and care supplies you need. Contact us for expert help choosing the right blanket for your horse and climate.

As always, follow the manufacturer’s care guidelines, and if you have questions about how to wash a horse blanket or which products to use, our knowledgeable team is happy to help.