How to clean and care for different bit materials
Hands up anyone else who grew up learning about cleaning tack and bits when most bits were stainless steel, maybe with a Happy Mouth here or a Nathe bit there for a handful of horses? Now, we’re lucky to have so many options, with copper and sweet iron, titanium, leather, gel and plastic mouthpieces, so that there’s something for virtually every horse and pony out there.
That means it’s worth reading up on how to care for those materials - after all, caring for our bits and tack helps everything last as long as possible and avoid sudden issues when we’re in the saddle. When it comes to bits, it’s also better for our horses, as a clean, smooth surface allows the bit to sit and move as it should, hopefully promoting softer contact and clear communication. A crusty, dirty mouthpiece is unpleasant at best and uncomfortable at worst! Dried on grass and other gunk can harden into bumps that could rub or irritate your horse’s lips and corners. And those cleaning sessions also give you a chance to examine the bit for any changes that might indicate general wear and tear or even a developing tooth issue.
In this blog, we take a closer look at how to care for different bit materials, including what to use and when to clean them, and what to look out for when you check your bits for wear and tear.
How often should you clean your bit?
A rinse after every ride! A quick rinse under warm water after every ride is the simplest way to stay on top of bit care. It only takes a few seconds but prevents residue drying into stubborn layers. If you’re riding several horses in quick succession, rinsing under a tap is much more hygienic than repeatedly dunking into a communal bucket – it removes the grime rather than redistributing it.
A weekly deep clean… Alongside daily rinsing, aim for a more thorough clean once a week. This fits easily into a general tack-cleaning routine and gives you a chance to check the bit properly. A weekly clean allows you to:
• Remove any stubborn build-up in joints
• Inspect the mouthpiece for rough spots or sharp edges
• Check how the bit is wearing, particularly around ring holes
• Rotate to a different bit if you use more than one
• This is also the ideal time to look closely at how the material is ageing, especially if you use softer mouthpieces such as gel, plastic or leather.
How to clean and care for different bit materials
Different materials bring different benefits, for example warmth, flexibility, lightness, taste, salivation or simply the feel a horse prefers. But each material needs slightly different handling to keep it in good condition. Here are some of the key things to know about caring for the most common materials used today.
Stainless steel
Stainless steel is incredibly practical: durable, smooth, easy to clean and naturally hygienic. A quick rinse removes the bulk of debris, and a weekly wash with warm water and mild detergent is generally enough. A soft brush helps you reach inside joints and around loose rings. As stainless steel is already corrosion-resistant, you don’t need anything more than this. In fact, harsh cleaners or metal polish can do more harm than good by scratching the surface.
Copper, cyprium, aurigan and other copper alloys
Copper-based metals encourage horses to salivate, which many riders find improves softness and acceptance. They are usually used for just part of the mouthpiece, for example a roller, and cleaning them is straightforward: warm water, mild soap and a soft cloth.
Keep an eye out for verdigris, which is a greenish-blue patina that forms from copper oxidation. This patina is toxic to horses and humans, so it's important to dry copper bits thoroughly after cleaning them to prevent it from appearing and being ingested.
Sweet iron or black iron
Sweet iron is designed to rust lightly, creating the ‘sweet’ flavour that encourages mouthing. This oxidation is part of the design, but it still needs gentle care. Rinse after each ride and dry it immediately, as leaving moisture on the surface can lead to excessive rust. A nylon brush works well for weekly cleaning, and avoiding abrasive tools will help keep the protective blue/black layer intact. Sweet iron bits are happiest in dry environments, so storing them in a damp tack room can shorten their lifespan.
Titanium
Titanium bits are lightweight, hypoallergenic and warm very quickly in the horse’s mouth, which is one reason they appeal to sensitive horses. They are also extremely durable and low maintenance. Most of the time, a rinse is enough, only occasionally adding mild detergent. As with other metals, a soft brush helps keep joints free from grit. You’ll rarely see tarnishing or damage on titanium but still check the moving parts regularly.
Plastic and polymer bits (e.g., Nathe, Happy Mouth)
These are ideal for horses who dislike the feel of metal or who need a softer, slightly flexible mouthpiece. Because the material is softer, it needs gentler cleaning. Rinse after every ride, and once a week give it a clean with mild soap and a soft cloth. Avoid hot water, alcohol-based cleaners or anything abrasive, as these can dry, crack or weaken the surface. Keep an eye out for teeth marks, as deep grooves can make the bit uncomfortable and may be a sign it needs replacing.
Gel-coated bits (e.g., Acavallo)
Gel bits offer exceptional softness and can be very helpful for sensitive mouths. However, they can pick up debris easily. Rinse immediately after riding and use only mild soap and a soft cloth for weekly cleaning. Heat and sunlight can affect the texture over time, so store gel bits somewhere cool and out of the sun. As with plastic mouthpieces, check regularly for teeth marks or signs of the coating lifting.
Leather mouthpieces
Leather is warm, natural and often chosen for horses who don’t enjoy rigid mouthpieces. Because it’s an organic material, leather needs particular care. Wipe it with a damp cloth after each ride to remove saliva and apply a natural and non-toxic leather conditioner (olive oil is a good choice) sparingly, as too much softens the fibres and shortens the lifespan. Never soak a leather bit and always leave it to dry naturally somewhere with good airflow. Any signs of cracking, stretching or mould mean it’s time to reassess the bit.
Rubber bits
Rubber bits provide a thicker, softer feel and can help horses who prefer more cushioning. They should be rinsed after every use and cleaned weekly with mild soap and a soft cloth or sponge. Rubber can degrade under heat or harsh chemicals, so avoid strong cleaners or leaving the bit in the sun. As soon as you see the surface start to split or crack, it’s time to replace it.
Deep cleaning your bit
While daily rinsing goes a long way, a deeper clean keeps your bit functioning at its best. Removing the bit from the bridle allows you to access every nook and joint. A toothbrush or soft detailing brush is ideal for reaching hinges and ring holes. Once the bit is clean and dry, run your fingertips along the mouthpiece to check for anything sharp or uneven as your fingertips can detect small issues that your eyes cannot.
If you ever feel a catch or raised spot under your fingertips, don’t ignore it. That can cause rubs or sores and may suggest the bit is nearing the end of its life.
Storing your bits properly
Good storage is the final step in bit care. Wherever possible, keep bits dry and away from damp air. Bits stored loose in a trunk can knock against each other, so a dedicated bit bag or hanging bridle bag is helpful. Soft materials like plastic, gel and rubber are best kept out of direct sunlight, while leather needs airflow so moisture doesn’t sit on the surface.
When should you replace a bit?
Even with excellent care, no bit lasts forever. It’s time to consider replacing yours if you notice:
● sharp edges or pitting
● looseness in joints or worn ring holes
● cracks or splits in rubber, gel or plastic
● deep tooth marks on soft materials
● excessive rust on sweet iron
● cracked or warped leather
If you’re not sure whether a bit is still safe or comfortable to use, our team is always happy to chat to you and see what we think!