Grooming tools and brushes
Which brush is which, and what is it for? Explore curry combs, brushes, hoof tools and the rest of the grooming kit. Each item briefly explains what it is, where on the horse you use it and what to watch for.
What's in a grooming kit?
A basic grooming kit usually holds these tools. Tap one to see what it is for.
Grooming a horse
A sensible basic order for grooming a horse, from hooves to shine.
Curry combs
Handheld tools with nubs or teeth that loosen dirt and loose hair and massage the skin.
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Rubber curry comb
A rubber curry comb is a handy tool with soft rubber nubs that loosens loose hair, mud and dried sweat.
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Plastic curry comb
A plastic curry comb has stiffer teeth than the rubber version and tackles caked mud more firmly.
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Metal curry comb
A metal curry comb is a curry comb with metal rings or teeth, mainly meant for cleaning brushes and sometimes for removing dead winter coat.
Brushes
From hard brushes for coarse dirt to soft brushes for shine and the face.
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Dandy brush
A dandy brush (hard brush) has long, stiff bristles to sweep away loose dirt and mud.
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Body brush
A body brush (soft brush) has short, soft bristles that smooth the coat and pick up fine dust.
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Finishing brush
A finishing brush is an extra-soft brush for the very last touch-up of the coat.
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Face brush
A face brush is a small, extra-soft brush for the sensitive skin of the head.
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Massage brush
A massage brush is a flexible rubber brush with nubs that cleans and massages at the same time.
Mane and tail
Combs and brushes to detangle and care for the mane and tail.
Hoof tools
Tools to pick out and clean the hooves.
Other grooming tools
Sponges, mitts and scrapers for washing, finishing and drying.
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Sponge
A sponge is a soft sponge to clean sensitive areas with a little moisture.
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Wash mitt
A wash mitt is a glove or cloth used wet to wash or wipe down.
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Grooming mitt
A grooming mitt is a rubber or sheepskin glove for dry grooming and for sensitive horses.
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Sweat scraper
A sweat scraper is a curved tool of rubber or metal to scrape excess water or sweat off the coat.
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Shedding blade
A shedding blade is a loop or strip with small teeth to remove loose winter coat during shedding.