Preparing a white horse for the show ring requires the right products as white coats can easily become stained from grass, mud, or stable life. This means thorough and careful cleaning is essential to achieve that dazzling, judge-pleasing finish. With the correct approach, you can bring out your horse’s natural brilliance while keeping their skin and coat healthy.
Preparing your horse for washing
Before you begin, make sure your horse is securely tied in a safe, non-slip area. Groom them thoroughly to remove loose hair, dust, and surface dirt as this makes the washing process more effective and helps prevent grit from scratching the coat.
It’s also an opportunity to check for cuts, swelling, or signs of illness, catching potential issues early. Grooming also strengthens the bond between horse and handler, creating trust and relaxation through consistent, gentle contact. In short, it’s a daily ritual that supports both physical health and emotional connection.
Remember to have all your horse bathing supplies ready, including buckets of warm water, a sponge, a sweat scraper, and your chosen shampoos.
Choosing the right shampoo
For an all-over clean, a high-quality equine shampoo is essential. Lincoln Classic Horse Shampoo offers nourishing care for your horse’s skin and coat, producing a deep clean without stripping natural oils. It is gentle enough for regular use, yet powerful enough to lift ingrained dirt from even the thickest manes and tails. Work the shampoo in thoroughly using circular motions, paying special attention to the legs, belly, and tail as these areas are prone to staining.
Tackling stubborn stains
White horses are notorious for stubborn grass, manure, and stable stains. After the main wash, you may need a targeted whitening product. NAF Brighter Than White is ideal for this step. Its formula can be mixed into a paste and applied directly to problem areas, such as knees, hocks, or tail ends, helping to neutralise discolouration. Leave it on for the recommended time before rinsing thoroughly to reveal a crisp, bright white finish.
Rinsing and drying
Rinse your horse well to ensure no shampoo or whitening product remains, as residue can cause irritation. Use a sweat scraper to remove excess water, then allow the horse to dry naturally in a sheltered area or use a cooler rug if the weather is chilly. For tails, gently squeeze out water and brush through with a wide-tooth comb to prevent tangles.
Final show-day finishing touches
Once dry, give your horse a final groom to smooth the coat and enhance shine. A chalk block or a final application of NAF Brighter Than White on the legs can provide that last-minute sparkle before stepping into the ring. Always check for any stray stains and touch up as needed to keep your presentation immaculate.