[icyssunset]

I was just wondering how you would go about applying neatsfoot oil to your bridle? A lady I work with told me to just soak it overnight in the oil, but her bridles always feel so slimy and gross! So can you do it a different way so it isn't so disgusting?

[Heavenly Jumper]

I just use a sponge brush applicator. I put on several thin layers once a month after I clean it. The thin layers soak in fast...

There is no point in saturating your leather in oil so that it feels nasty!

[Xiphias]

I don't use neats foot oil, but I apply my tanner's oil, with a cotton ball, and let it soak in....sometimes I go over it a couple times, letting it soak in each time...Cathy

[Temposmom]

Too much "oil" will clog up the leather pores and so more is NOT a good thing, under normal circumstances. A balsam is grand as it does help restore the natural balance to the leather. If you do use the Neatsfoot, make sure it is "pure" the "compound" has a petroleum mix and that is not friendly to the stitches.

[icyssunset]

Its pure neatsfoot oil. I am using it to darken up my bridle.

[Preppy_Ponies]

I just put on a thin layer with either a sponge or a paint brush. Then I put it out in the sun . The sun helps the oil absorb better and then dries up what the leather doesn't need. Don't oil too often just when the leather needs it.

[harli36]

Apply the oil to the underside of the leather, not the top. If you put it on the top it will get that slimy feeling to it. I apply mine with a small paint brush. Then after you put the oil on it put a coat of gylcerine soap on to help hold the oil in.

[LuckyAshley]

I use neatsfoot oil (pure) after cleaning with some saddle soap on all of my tack except my light oil show set. All I do is take a clean old sock or rag and poor some neatsfoot oil on it, and just rub it all over the leather (underside and top) really good. Then I'll just use my hands and really work the oil in. It's best to do this on a warmer day out in the sun so that the oil soaks in better. I've never had any problems with my tack getting all slippery etc.

Good luck!
-Ashley

[JumpingBean]

I usually use Hydrophane oil, but I apply it the same way I do Neatsfoot. I take the bridle apart and clean it, then brush a thin layer on with a rag, then flex the piece of leather slightly to encourage it to soak up oil, apply more oil, and repeat until it has finished soaking it up. I don't mean crease it or distress it -- just a gentle bend. And be careful doing even this much to extremely stiff/dry leather. My bridles are wonderfully supple without being greasy, and this is typically what I do with them.

I have occasionally soaked a bridle, but it tends to make them really nasty like you said unless you spend a looong time getting rid of the excess oil. For me this involves wiping, hanging out in the sun, flexing, wiping, and repeat as often as necessary.