How to remove stains from white riding breeches? | Advice

Washing instructions for white riding breeches

White riding breeches are traditionally worn at equestrian competitions: show jumping or dressage events. They are white by tradition to allow better appreciation by judges of the rider's posture. Federation regulations generally specify "proper attire required".

It is therefore important for the competitor to keep their outfit impeccably clean. The horse environment is prone to staining equipment. It can be difficult to keep them white and clean, especially after a day spent on horseback.

In this article, we present tips and advice for maintaining your white riding breeches like new, so you can shine on the track.

Stains on your white riding breeches? Don't panic, we have several solutions for you, but don't immediately resort to machine washing!

If the machine doesn't remove the stain from your breeches, it will instead set the stain and make it more difficult to remove afterwards.

Why are white riding breeches difficult to maintain?

The fabrics used for riding breeches are designed to offer flexibility, durability, and breathability. This involves technical fibers often more sensitive to harsh products or high-temperature washing. White reveals the slightest dirt.

Step 1: Act quickly on the stain

The longer a stain remains on the fabric, the more it sets in. As soon as possible: you must gently blot the stained area with a damp cloth (do not rub dry). Avoid hot water, which sets certain stains (blood, proteins).

Step 2: Identify the type of stain

Here are the most common stains in riding and how to treat them:

Manure / mud / dirt

Gently brush dry once the stain is dry. Wash with an enzymatic stain remover suitable for technical textiles.

Leather grease / saddle grease

You should sprinkle with Fuller's earth or talcum powder. Leave for a few hours, then brush. Then, apply a textile stain remover before washing.

Food stain (coffee, chocolate, juice...)

Rinse with cold water. Dab with a mixture of water + Marseille soap. Then, wash at low temperature (30°C).

Blood stains

Rinse with cold water immediately. Apply diluted sodium percarbonate or an enzymatic stain remover. Avoid hot water and bleach, too harsh for technical fibers.

Step 3: Machine washing (or hand washing)

The recommended temperature is 30°C, in a gentle cycle, without too strong spinning. Use a detergent without optical brighteners, designed for technical garments. Add an oxygen stain remover if needed. For Horse Pilot breeches, gentle washing helps preserve the breathable, stretch properties and durability of the fabrics.

Step 4: Drying and finishing

Avoid the dryer, prefer air drying in the shade. Ironing is unnecessary on stretch Horse Pilot models.

Pro tips to keep your white riding breeches clean

Systematically pre-treat exposed areas (inside of calves, seat) with a textile waterproofing spray
Wash your breeches after each use
Keep a "training" pair and a "competition" pair

Why choose Horse Pilot white breeches?

Our white riding breeches are designed to combine technicality, comfort, and ease of care:

Water-repellent and stain-resistant fabrics
Ergonomic seams to avoid friction zones
Multidirectional stretch for total freedom of movement
Easy to maintain while keeping their competition white brightness after washing

Our related articles:

Maintaining your riding clothes

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