A good horse rug is an investment, and with the right care your Ruby Rose Horse Rug can last season after season. Whether it’s your go-to canvas rug, a jute rug for coat shine, or a magnetic rug for recovery, keeping them clean and properly stored helps maintain comfort, fit and performance.
Here’s how to get the most out of your horse rugs.
Washing Your Horse Rugs
Dust, sweat and mud build up fast, especially through an Australian summer. Keeping your rugs clean not only helps your horse’s coat but also extends the life of the fabric and waterproofing.
Light Refresh (After Each Ride)
Use a stiff brush to remove dried mud and hair. This quick habit goes a long way in keeping your rugs fresh and breathable.
Machine Washing (Lightweight Rugs Only)
Pop lightweight rugs like mesh rugs or cotton sheets into a large front-loader with cold water and a mild detergent. Avoid bleach or fabric softeners as they’ll damage waterproof coatings and fibres.
Hose Down and Scrub (For Heavy Rugs)
For canvas rugs, rainsheets, winter rugs, PVC and jute rugs:
Rinse well and allow to drip dry.
Hang over a fence.
Hose off mud and sweat.
Gently scrub with mild soapy water.
Drying
Never use a dryer or leave rugs on direct heat. Air dry in shade or a breezy area. Heat can damage waterproof membranes and shrink natural fibres.
Horse Rug Longevity Tips
Keeping your horse comfortable and your rugs looking great doesn’t take much, just a few smart habits.
- Rotate Rugs: Alternate between a couple of rugs to reduce daily wear and UV exposure.
- Check Fit Often: Watch for shoulder rubs or slipping. A well-fitted rug prevents friction and extends lifespan. Most Ruby Rose Horse Rugs include satin shoulder linings to help with this.
- Repair Early: Patch or stitch small tears before they grow. A little effort now saves replacing an entire rug later.
- Store Clean: Dirt and sweat can attract pests and weaken fabric over time.
Storing Horse Rugs Between Seasons
When the weather changes, proper storage makes all the difference.
- Make sure each rug is completely dry.
- Fold neatly and store in a tub or breathable storage bag.
- Keep them somewhere cool, dry and away from rodents or moisture.
Bonus tip: Label your tubs by size or rug type to make it easier when the seasons change.
A Final Word from Ruby Rose Horsewear
We design our rugs to be tough, practical and beautiful, made to stand up to real Australian conditions. With a little care, they’ll keep your horses comfortable and looking sharp all year round.
Got a question about washing or storing your rug, or not sure which rug suits your horse best? Send us a message – we’re always happy to help.
