How often are you meant to clean your tack?

Actually just the flaps and underside of fenders that collect dirt and sweat need to be cleaned fairly regularly but not necessarily after every ride. It's a judgement call. I've cleaned hundreds of saddles, some with literally a crusty buildup of grime and sweat and after a good cleaning the leather doesn't seem to have suffered.

I really don't see the necessity in cleaning after EVERY single ride, but it is important to clean it often.

I only clean my (synthetic) saddle and (leather) bridle when I show. I'm never even sure I do a good job of it.

I'm planning on buying a nicer saddle soon; I suspect I'll get much better about cleaning tack once I have something that will really hurt to replace!

I think it depends on the products you use, as well. What you SHOULD do is contact the manufacturer of your tack and ask what the care instructions are. (but who really does that?) Washing too often can wear down the leather, and oiling too often can wear down the stitching. The quality of the leather and stitching will make a difference, too. At a minimum, I always wipe down my tack with an all-purpose leather cleaner and wipe down the bit after every ride to remove surface dust and grime that can cause sores on my horse. In the summer, I try not to use saddle pads more than twice before washing, so I have a collection of pads to use. As someone else said, it's important to clean regularly so that you can examine your tack for cracks or pieces that may need replacement.

Thanks for these comments, they're all very helpful. :)

The old threads were waxed linen and yes one could oil a saddle only within an inch of stitching. Nowadays the threads are polyester for sun and rain resistance and it is pretty resistance to the oils.

Wow, after every ride?

Seems a little much for me..
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