Can You Oil a Saddle Too Much?
May 7, 2009 by Saddle Sense
Filed under General Saddle Topics, Saddle Tips
The answer to this important question is an emphatic YES.
Over time, excessive application of oil will break down the fibers in the leather and weaken it. Leather does need oil, but much less than most folks think. Applying a good coat of oil once a year will usually be sufficient.
On the other hand, there’s no such thing as cleaning your saddle too much. This can range from a quick dusting with a soft cloth to a full cleaning with a glycerin soap. And you certainly want to do a good cleaning prior to applying oil or you will trap the dirt in the pores of the leather.
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Careful when oiling your saddle, some oils won’t absorb like they should. (ex. having more oil on your jeans than leather) Determining when you should oil your saddle depends how much you use it, or how much moisture its exposed to. I found pure light oils work the best, and haven’t any complaints on cleaning and conditioning.