How best to soften an old saddle?

[feisty_filly]

Iv just bought a beautiful western saddle that's been imported from the states, but unfortunately I think it's sat in someone's shed for the last few years and is very stiff!
Iv given it a clean with soap and its had a few layers of neetsfoot oil but I'm wondering if anyone has any other tips to hurry it along?

 

[OldNag]

I would hold off on the neatsfoot and use a good balm like Effax or Jeffries.... do it in stages.

 

[Abbeygale]

Ko chao line. Miracle stuff

 

[Fourlegsgood]

I would hold off on the neatsfoot and use a good balm like Effax or Jeffries.... do it in stages.

Yep, agree with that. I like the Devoucoux leather balsam because it doesn't leave any residue behind but any other good quality one will do the trick. I also agree about not using neatsfoot.

 

[wes]

I always thought neatsfoot on the back side of the leather and a good wax balm on the front

 

[3OldPonies]

Ko Cho Line on the back of the leather, put quite a smearing on and leave to soak in for 24 hours before rubbing in and removing any excess. Clean the 'topside' as normal with a good quality leather cleanser/feed.

 

[Mariposa]

I used Dubbin to soften a pair of very very stiff boots ( they'd been sat out in the damp all winter...totally my fault!) - made a big difference, might work with a saddle?

 

[feisty_filly]

Thanks everyone. Iv been using Carr & Day & Martin conditioner today (just whipping a bit on and leaving then repeating a couple of hours later) and its really making a difference.
When do people think the best time (if any) is to use neetsfoot oil?

 

[wes]

When do people think the best time (if any) is to use neetsfoot oil?

Or why not...My wife got a new Ideal dressage saddle and it came with instructions to apply neatsfoot oil to the back and wax the front before use

 

[cremedemonthe]

Oil won't condition leather/hide as well as leather conditioner.
I've sent you some info on leather care, Oz