How to remove stains from white riding pants?
White riding pants are a must-have for competitions, symbolizing elegance and precision. But between dust, mud, sand, saddle leather, and even manure stains, dirt is inevitable. So how can you keep your white riding pants looking impeccable? Horse Pilot shares its best tips for removing stubborn stains while preserving the quality of your technical fabrics.
Why are white riding pants difficult to maintain?
The fabrics used for riding pants are designed to offer flexibility, durability, and breathability. This means that the technical fibers are often more sensitive to harsh products or high-temperature washing. White fabric shows up even 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, gently dab 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 horse riding and how to treat them:
Manure/mud/dirt
Once the stain is dry, brush it gently with a dry brush. Wash with an enzymatic stain remover suitable for technical textiles.
Leather grease/saddle grease
Sprinkle with Sommières clay or talcum powder. Leave for a few hours, then brush. Next, apply a fabric stain remover before washing.
Food stains (coffee, chocolate, juice, etc.)
Rinse with cold water. Dab with a mixture of water and Marseille soap. Then wash at a low temperature (30°C).
Blood stains
Rinse immediately with cold water. Apply diluted sodium percarbonate or an enzymatic stain remover. Avoid hot water and bleach, which are too harsh on technical fibers.
Step 3: Machine wash (or hand wash)
The recommended temperature is 30°C, on a gentle cycle, without excessive spinning. Use a detergent without optical brighteners, designed for technical clothing. Add an oxygen-based stain remover if necessary. For Horse Pilot pants, a gentle wash preserves the breathability, stretch, and durability of the fabrics.
Step 4: Drying and finishing
Avoid the dryer; instead, dry in the open air, in the shade. Ironing is not necessary for Horse Pilot stretch models.
Pro tips for keeping your white riding pants looking good
Always pre-treat exposed areas (inside of calves, buttocks) with a waterproofing fabric spray
Wash your pants after each use
Keep one pair of pants for training and another for competitions
Why choose Horse Pilot white breeches?
Our white riding pants are designed to combine technical features, comfort, and ease of care:
Water-repellent and stain-resistant fabrics
Ergonomic seams to prevent chafing
Multi-directional stretch for total freedom of movement
Easy to care for, while retaining their bright white color after washing
Conclusion
Staining white riding pants may seem complicated, but with the right techniques and products, it is possible to keep your pants perfectly clean, competition after competition. Horse Pilot supports you with clothing designed to withstand the demands of equestrian sports, while remaining easy to care for.