Hi folks, Keith here. Yesterday, I chimed in on a horsemanship Q&A group about blanketing horses during the winter months. Someone in the group asked me to share my response as a separate post, so their community could benefit from it too. Winter blanket care can be a challenge, especially without an enclosed barn, so I’m happy to pass along some tips that can make life easier for you and your horses.
Tips for Keeping Blankets and Horses Dry in Winter
1. Use a Drying Rack or Blanket Bar
Find a spot where you can hang the blankets to air out properly. If you can rig up a rack or bar in a sheltered area, it’ll help airflow reach the underside of the blanket and dry it faster.
2. Invest in Breathable, Waterproof BlanketsMake sure your blankets are fully waterproof and breathable. Without these features, moisture can seep in or build up from sweat, leaving your horse damp and uncomfortable.
3. Layer with a Wickable Liner
A moisture-wicking liner is a handy addition under the blanket. It pulls sweat and dampness away from your horse, keeping the inside of the blanket drier. Liners are also easier to wash and dry than the main blanket.
4. Rotate BlanketsHaving a second blanket on hand is a big help. Rotate them regularly so one can dry completely while the other is in use. This way, your horse is always wearing a dry blanket.
5. Use a Tarp or Roofed Area
If you don’t have an enclosed barn, set up a tarp structure or move the blankets to a covered space overnight to keep them safe from dew, frost, or light rain.
6. Brush or Shake Off Moisture
When the blanket’s inside is only slightly damp, brushing or shaking it out can help speed up the drying process.
7. Try a Portable Blanket Dryer
A portable blanket dryer or heated drying rack can be a game-changer for winter care. They’re an investment, but they make drying blankets much faster and easier.
8. Create a Weather-Proof Drying Spot
Set up a windbreak around a small drying area using hay bales or panels. This helps blankets air out without getting damp again from the environment.
Winter care can sometimes feel like a hassle, but small tweaks to your setup can make all the difference. Keeping blankets dry helps ensure your horse stays warm and comfortable, no matter what the weather throws at you.
If you’re looking for even more practical advice on horse care, I’ve got something special for you inside our Building Trust Not Tension: The CCU Club. There, I have an entire interview with veterinarian Crystal Christman about the care and keeping of your horse in the winter, plus general horse care insights from Julie Parsonage and other great tips. It’s packed with knowledge to help you navigate all aspects of horse care year-round.
Take care, and as always, happy horsemanship.
-- KJS
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