Horse Vacuums: a Deep-Clean Coat Even in a Thick Winter Coat

Horse Vacuums: clean right down to the skin

A horse vacuum sucks dust, scurf and loose hair straight out of the coat. An attachment with curry bristles loosens the dirt while the machine draws it away, instead of whirling it into the air. With a thick winter coat, with greys before a show or with horses that love to roll, this achieves far more than brushing alone. Many riders also value the massaging effect that vacuuming has on the horse.

Getting your horse used to it slowly

The humming and the airflow are unfamiliar to many horses at first. Let your horse sniff the switched-off vacuum in peace. Then switch it on at a little distance and praise calm behaviour. Start at the shoulder and neck, where most horses are not very sensitive, and slowly work your way on from there. With patience and several short sessions, the vacuum usually soon becomes routine, and many horses even enjoy it.

Spare parts and care

To keep the suction power high, knock out the filter regularly and replace it when needed. The hose and the curry attachment also wear over time and can be replaced individually. Empty the container after every use so that dust and hair do not build up. Store the machine in a dry place and do not coil the hose too tightly, so that it does not kink.

Frequently asked questions

Is a horse vacuum worth it for a leisure horse?
If your horse has a lot of dust in its coat, loves to roll or you have little time for grooming, the machine can pay off even without shows. It saves time, especially in winter and during the moult. For a horse that is only slightly dusty, a curry comb and body brush are enough.

Can I vacuum my horse in winter if it lives out?
A horse living out needs the natural grease in its coat as protection against wet and cold. With horses living out in winter, focus on vacuuming the saddle and girth area thoroughly and largely leave the rest of the coat alone.

Can I use the horse vacuum to clean rugs as well?
Yes, many riders also use it to remove hair and dust from rugs, saddle cloths and saddle pads. Make sure the attachment is clean again before you use it on your horse.