Before our products are assembled, a heavy coat of warm, pure neatsfoot oil is applied. After the oil has penetrated well into the leather, a coating of R.M. Williams leather dressing is applied. The dressing is a rich animal rendering with a great deal of body. It not only beads water, it also leaves the leather firm yet pliable.
Any new leather will break in more readily with a regular application of leather dressing. It is important not to saturate leather with too much oil.
If the leather begins to feel mushy, discontinue oil use until some of it is allowed to evaporate and the leather is once again firm. Pliable and firm, not soft and mushy.
New leather needs frequent care for the first few months. The feel and appearance of the leather will tell you how often the care is needed. It is also important to keep salts washed from the flesh side, in particular the fenders. Clean with soap and water, rinse and apply another coat of dressing.
When cleaning a dirty saddle, remove all obvious dirt and grime. With a damp sponge, clean thoroughly with saddle soap and warm water, rinse and allow to almost dry, then apply a coat of oil.
There are many ways to care for leather and many dressings that can be used. Your main concern is to keep your saddle clean and well lubricated. Your reward will be many years of satisifactory service.