How to clean wool fleece.
Whether you have a 5 Star Saddle Pad with our optional 100% Pure Wool Fleece Lining or a 5 Star Mohair Cinch with a fleece lining, regular cleaning helps keep your tack looking great and performing at its best.
Our fleece is made from the same premium 100% pure wool found in our saddle pads, offering exceptional breathability, moisture management, and comfort for your horse. With proper care, your wool fleece will continue to provide years of reliable performance.
Start by Removing Loose Dirt & Hair
Before washing, remove as much loose dirt, dust, dried sweat, and horse hair as possible.
One of the easiest and most effective ways to do this is with a shop vacuum. Vacuuming lifts debris from deep within the wool fibers, making the cleaning process more effective while helping preserve the fleece.
Cleaning Your Wool Fleece
Because our fleece is 100% pure wool, you should clean it using the same process we recommend for every 5 Star wool saddle pad.
Before You Begin
Water Temperature
Ideally, use lukewarm water (86°F / 30°C). Hot water can damage the wool’s natural elasticity.
Cleaner
Always use a neutral pH (pH 7) cleaner like 5 Star Saddle Pad & Tack Cleaner. Never use acidic soaps or harsh detergents, as they can damage natural wool fibers.
Cleaning Process
- Lightly rinse the fleece with lukewarm water.
- Apply 5 Star Saddle Pad & Tack Cleaner generously to the wool.
- Allow the cleaner to sit for 15–20 minutes to break down sweat, dirt, and buildup.
- Using a clean sponge or soft brush, gently work the cleaner into the fleece if needed.
- Rinse thoroughly until the water runs clear, ensuring all cleaner is removed from the wool fibers.
For Deep Cleaning
If your fleece-lined saddle pad or cinch hasn’t been cleaned in a while, or has heavy sweat and dirt buildup, we recommend using the same overnight soaking method we recommend for our wool saddle pads.
Extended soaking allows the cleaner’s natural enzyme and microbial action to penetrate deep into the wool fibers, helping restore softness, flexibility, and the wool’s natural moisture-wicking performance.
Complete Soaking Instructions
Read our article for the full step-by-step cleaning process:
Soak to Activate: The Key to Deep Cleaning Your Saddle Pads →
Drying & Storage
- Hang your fleece-lined tack to dry in a well-ventilated area out of direct sunlight. Depending on humidity and airflow, drying may take a couple of days.
- Never use high heat or place fleece in a clothes dryer.
- Store your tack where air can circulate freely to help maintain the natural structure and performance of the wool.
More Than a Saddle Pad Cleaner
Made with eco-conscious ingredients, 5 Star Saddle Pad & Tack Cleaner is environmentally friendly and safe for both people and animals.
From 100% pure wool saddle pads and 100% pure wool fleece linings to mohair tack, leather tack, blankets, boots, saddles, bridles, breast collars, and halters, it’s designed to safely clean and protect the equipment you depend on every day.
Bonus Tip
Here’s one more reason to keep a bottle in your tack room or horse trailer: It also works great for removing bugs from your truck, trailer or windshield after a long haul.
Protect Your Investment
Routine cleaning helps preserve the natural performance of 100% pure wool while extending the life of your equipment. Whether you’re caring for a fleece-lined saddle pad, a fleece-lined mohair cinch, or your favorite 5 Star wool saddle pad, using the proper cleaning method keeps your tack cleaner, your horse more comfortable, and your investment protected for years to come.