Proper care and maintenance of your Bombers bits ensures they remain safe, comfortable, and effective throughout years of use. 

Different Bombers materials require specific care approaches, and understanding these differences helps you maintain your equipment correctly while extending its working life.

General Bit Care

Regardless of the specific material, all Bombers bits benefit from consistent basic care:

After Every Use (Daily Care)

Immediate rinsing: As soon as you remove the bit from your horse's mouth, rinse it thoroughly under clean running water. Saliva contains enzymes that can degrade materials over time, and feed particles or debris can create rough spots or harbour bacteria. Don't wait until later—rinse immediately while saliva is still fresh and easy to remove.

Gentle cleaning: Use your fingers or a soft cloth to wipe all surfaces of the mouthpiece, paying particular attention to joints, links, and any textured areas where debris accumulates. For bits with rollers, barrels, or complex designs, ensure you clean around and between all moving parts.

Drying: After rinsing, dry the bit with a clean towel. While many materials tolerate moisture, proper drying prevents unnecessary oxidation, keeps leather components in good condition, and ensures the bit is ready for next use. Pay attention to joints and connections where water can collect.

Quick inspection: Each time you clean your bit, take a moment to inspect it. Run your fingers along the mouthpiece feeling for rough spots, sharp edges, or unusual wear. Check joints and links for tightness and smooth operation. This daily habit catches developing problems before they become serious.

Weekly Deep Cleaning

Thorough washing: Once a week, clean your bit more thoroughly using warm water and mild soap. A small amount of washing-up liquid or specialized bit cleaner works well. Use a soft cloth or sponge to clean all surfaces, then rinse extremely thoroughly—any soap residue left on the bit can cause mouth irritation.

Moving parts maintenance: For bits with rollers, barrels, waterford links, or other moving components, ensure these parts move freely. Gently work the moving elements while cleaning to remove any buildup that might cause sticking or rough operation.

Connection inspection: Examine all joints, links, rings, and connections. Check for wear, looseness, or developing problems. Moving parts will show wear over time—this is normal, but excessive wear, sharp edges, or loose connections require attention.

Storage

Dry environment: Store bits in a clean, dry location. While some oxidation is acceptable (even beneficial) for sweet iron, excessive moisture in storage isn't necessary and can cause problems with leather components or rubber elements.

Organized storage: Hang bits on individual hooks or bridle racks rather than tossing them into boxes where they can become tangled, damaged, or scratched by contact with other equipment. Proper storage prevents accidental damage and makes it easy to inspect bits regularly.

Separate from other metals: If storing multiple bits, avoid metals touching each other for extended periods. Different metals can cause galvanic corrosion through electrochemical reactions, particularly in humid environments.

Material-Specific Care

Different Bombers bit materials have specific characteristics and care requirements:

Blue Sweet Iron

Blue Sweet Iron is Bombers' signature material—the distinctive blue coating over sweet iron that provides all the acceptance-encouraging benefits of oxidation without the messy rust of traditional sweet iron.

Understanding the Material

Sweet iron is a specially formulated iron alloy that oxidizes (rusts) when exposed to moisture, creating a slightly sweet taste that encourages horses to salivate, mouth the bit, and relax their jaw. The Bombers blue coating slows this oxidation initially while preventing the orange-brown rust residue from transferring to everything it touches. As the bit is used, the blue coating gradually wears away in areas of highest contact, revealing the sweet iron underneath which then oxidizes as intended.

Normal Appearance Changes

The blue coating will wear: This is completely normal and expected. Areas where the bit contacts the horse's mouth most directly—particularly the bearing surfaces of the mouthpiece—will show wear first. The blue coating gradually thins and eventually wears through with use.

Orange-brown colouring will appear: Once the coating wears through, the exposed sweet iron begins to oxidize, creating orange-brown coloured areas. This is NOT rust in the damaging sense—it's the beneficial oxidation that makes sweet iron effective. This colouring is normal, expected, and actually desirable from a functional perspective.

Coating wear is not defective: Some owners worry when their new blue bit starts showing wear and orange patches. This is not a manufacturing defect or premature failure—it's the bit working exactly as designed. The blue coating is meant to wear gradually, revealing the functional sweet iron underneath.

Daily Care for Blue Sweet Iron

Rinse thoroughly after each use: Sweet iron oxidation happens when moisture (saliva) contacts the iron. Rinsing removes saliva, slowing the oxidation process slightly while preventing excessive buildup.

Gentle wiping: Use a soft damp cloth to wipe down the bit after rinsing. You can wipe away loose oxidation if you prefer, but you don't need to scrub aggressively—the oxidation layer itself is beneficial.

Allow to air dry: After rinsing and wiping, allow the bit to dry naturally. Don't apply oils, lubricants, or protective coatings to sweet iron mouthpieces—these interfere with the intended oxidation process and can create an unpleasant taste or texture for your horse.

Long-term Blue Sweet Iron Maintenance

Accept the oxidation: Over time, your blue sweet iron bit will develop more extensive orange-brown coloring as the coating wears and oxidation occurs. This is normal wear, not deterioration. The bit remains safe and functional—in fact, it's functioning better as the sweet iron is now fully exposed and oxidizing as intended.

Don't try to restore the blue: Some owners want to restore the original blue appearance. There's no benefit to this—the blue coating is aesthetic and functional initially, but once it wears, the sweet iron underneath is doing its job. Attempting to repaint or recoat can create unsafe or unpleasant conditions for your horse.

Clean excessive buildup: If heavy orange-brown residue builds up (particularly if you live in very humid areas or if the bit isn't used regularly), you can wipe this away with a damp cloth. Light scrubbing with a soft brush and warm water removes excess oxidation while leaving the beneficial layer intact.

Inspect for actual wear: The orange-brown colouring is oxidation, not wear. However, do inspect regularly for actual metal wear—thinning of the mouthpiece, wearing through of joints, or developing sharp edges. These indicate the bit is wearing out and may need replacement, which is separate from the normal oxidation process.

When to Replace Blue Sweet Iron Bits

Oxidation is not a replacement indicator: The presence of orange-brown colouring, even extensive colouring, is not a reason to replace the bit. Sweet iron bits can function perfectly well when completely covered in oxidation.

Actual wear is the indicator: Replace sweet iron bits when:

• Mouthpiece diameter has thinned significantly from contact wear
• Joints or links show excessive wear, looseness, or sharp edges
• Any part of the mouthpiece develops sharp edges or rough spots
• Structural damage occurs (cracks, breaks, deformation)

A well-maintained sweet iron bit can last many years, even as its appearance changes from blue to orange-brown.

Standard Stainless Steel

Many Bombers bits are available in stainless steel—a hypoallergenic, durable, neutral-taste material suitable for horses who don't need sweet iron encouragement.

Understanding the Material

Stainless steel is extremely durable, resistant to corrosion, and maintains its appearance well over time. It doesn't oxidize like sweet iron, doesn't require special treatment, and provides a neutral, consistent feel that many horses accept readily.

Daily Care for Stainless Steel

Rinse and wipe: After each use, rinse thoroughly and wipe dry. While stainless steel is corrosion-resistant, saliva and debris should still be removed promptly.

Dry thoroughly: Although stainless steel tolerates moisture better than some materials, proper drying prevents water spots and keeps any leather components or rubber elements in good condition.

Long-term Stainless Steel Maintenance

Occasional polishing: Stainless steel can be polished if you want to maintain a bright, shiny appearance. Use a soft cloth and appropriate metal polish following the product instructions. This is purely cosmetic—dull stainless steel functions identically to polished stainless steel.

Avoid abrasive cleaning: Don't use steel wool, harsh abrasive cleaners, or anything that might scratch the surface. Scratches create rough spots that can irritate your horse's mouth.

Inspect for wear: Even durable stainless steel wears over time. Check regularly for thinning, worn joints, or developing rough edges. Stainless steel typically wears slower than sweet iron, but it does eventually wear.

When to Replace Stainless Steel Bits

Replace when:

• Visible thinning of mouthpiece from wear
• Joints or links showing excessive wear or roughness
• Any sharp edges or rough spots developing
• Structural damage (rare with stainless steel but possible)

Stainless steel bits often last longer than sweet iron equivalents due to superior corrosion resistance and slower wear rates.

Moulded Rubber and Nylon Bits Care

Some Bombers designs feature moulded rubber or nylon mouthpieces—synthetic materials offering very gentle, soft contact particularly suited to sensitive horses, young horses, or specific rehabilitation situations.

Understanding the Materials

Moulded rubber: Flexible, soft material that's gentle on mouths and often appreciated by sensitive horses. Can be solid rubber or rubber coating over a metal core for strength.

Nylon: Harder than rubber but still softer than metal, offering a different texture and feel. Very durable and easy to clean.

Both materials are designed to be gentle while maintaining enough structure to provide clear communication.

Daily Care for Moulded Materials

Immediate rinsing: Rubber and nylon benefit from immediate rinsing even more than metal bits. Saliva and feed particles can degrade these materials or create rough spots if left to dry.

Gentle cleaning: Use soft cloths or sponges only—no abrasive materials. These synthetic materials can be scratched or damaged by rough cleaning methods.

Thorough drying: Dry completely after each use. While the materials themselves tolerate moisture, thorough drying prevents any internal metal components from corroding and keeps the material in best condition.

Long-term Moulded Material Maintenance

Avoid harsh chemicals: Don't use strong soaps, disinfectants, or chemical cleaners on rubber or nylon mouthpieces. Mild soap and water is sufficient. Harsh chemicals can degrade the material, cause cracking, or create unpleasant tastes.

Protect from temperature extremes: Don't store rubber bits in extreme heat (like in cars during summer) or extreme cold, as temperature extremes can affect material flexibility and durability.

Inspect for degradation: Regularly check for:

• Cracking or splitting: Particularly at stress points or where the material meets metal components
• Surface roughness: Smooth materials should stay smooth—developing rough texture indicates degradation
• Loss of flexibility: Rubber becoming hard and inflexible indicates material breakdown
• Discoloration: Some discoloration from oxidation is normal, but dramatic colour changes or visible deterioration indicate replacement needed

UV protection: If possible, store away from direct sunlight. UV exposure can degrade rubber and some plastics over time.

When to Replace Moulded Bits

Replace rubber or nylon bits when:

• Any cracking, splitting, or obvious material breakdown occurs
• Surface becomes rough or develops sharp spots
• Material hardens significantly or loses flexibility
• Visible degradation of the material
• Any structural damage to internal metal core (if present)

Rubber and nylon bits typically have shorter lifespans than metal bits—this is normal for these materials. Regular replacement ensures your horse always works in safe, comfortable equipment.

Titanium Bits Care

Some specialised Bombers designs are available in titanium—an extremely lightweight, strong, biocompatible metal offering unique properties.

Understanding the Material

Titanium is significantly lighter than stainless steel while maintaining excellent strength. It's biocompatible (extremely unlikely to cause allergic reactions), naturally warm to the touch rather than cold like steel, and highly resistant to corrosion. Titanium bits are premium products offering specific advantages for sensitive horses or particular situations.

Daily Care for Titanium

Gentle rinsing and drying: Titanium requires no special cleaning—simple rinsing and drying after each use is sufficient. The material's superior corrosion resistance means it tolerates moisture well, but proper drying is still good practice.

Soft cloth only: When cleaning, use soft cloths only. Titanium can be scratched by abrasive materials, and while scratches don't affect function, they may affect the premium appearance.

Long-term Titanium Maintenance

Minimal maintenance required: Titanium needs very little long-term care beyond regular cleaning. It doesn't oxidize, doesn't tarnish, and maintains its appearance naturally.

Avoid harsh chemicals: While titanium is chemically resistant, there's no need to expose it to harsh chemicals. Mild soap and water are sufficient for any cleaning needs.

Inspection for wear: Despite titanium's strength, it can still wear. Check regularly for:

• Thinning of mouthpiece in high-contact areas
• Wear on joints or connections
• Any developing rough spots

When to Replace Titanium Bits

Replace when:

• Visible wear or thinning of mouthpiece
• Damage to joints or connections
• Any structural damage (extremely rare with titanium)

Properly maintained titanium bits can last very long periods—often outlasting steel equivalents due to superior corrosion resistance and strength-to-weight ratio.

Copper and Copper Alloy Care

Some Bombers bits incorporate copper elements—either full copper mouthpieces, copper inlays, or copper rollers—to encourage salivation through the distinct taste copper provides.

Understanding the Material
Copper encourages salivation similar to sweet iron but through taste rather than oxidation. Some horses particularly respond to copper, making it valuable for horses with dry mouths or those needing encouragement to relax and accept the bit.

Normal Appearance Changes

Copper oxidizes: Pure copper develops a greenish patina (verdigris) when exposed to moisture and air. This is completely normal and not harmful. The oxidation is what creates the taste encouraging salivation.

Colour changes: Copper bits will change from bright copper colour to darker, more muted tones as oxidation occurs. This is expected and functional.

Daily Care for Copper

Rinse thoroughly: Remove saliva and debris after each use. Copper oxidation happens naturally, but excessive saliva buildup isn't necessary or beneficial.

Gentle cleaning: Wipe with soft cloth after rinsing. You can remove loose oxidation if desired, but like sweet iron, some oxidation is beneficial.

Allow natural oxidation: Don't use copper polishes or cleaners on the mouthpiece portions of the bit—the oxidation and patina are functional, not decorative. Polishing removes the beneficial layer.

Long-term Copper Maintenance

Accept the patina: Over time, copper develops extensive green-brown patina. This is normal and indicates the copper is oxidizing as intended. The bit remains safe and functional.

Clean excessive buildup: If heavy buildup occurs, gentle cleaning with warm water and soft cloth removes excess while leaving the beneficial patina layer.

Inspect for actual wear: Copper is softer than steel and may wear faster. Check regularly for thinning, especially in high-contact areas, and replace when wear becomes significant.

When to Replace Copper Bits

Replace when:

• Significant thinning of copper components from wear
• Sharp edges developing
• Structural damage or deformation
• Excessive wear affecting safety or function

Special Features Maintenance

Some Bombers bits incorporate specialized features requiring specific attention:

Bits with Rollers or Barrels

Keep moving freely: Rollers and barrels should rotate smoothly. After cleaning, check that all rollers move freely without sticking.

Clean around moving parts: Use small brushes or cloths to clean around and between rollers, removing accumulated debris that might impede movement.

Inspect for wear: Rollers wear where they contact the axle. Check regularly that rollers aren't developing sharp edges or wearing excessively thin.

Waterford and Multi-Link Bits
Individual link cleaning: Waterford bits with their multiple ball links require attention to each link. Ensure saliva and debris don't accumulate between links.

Joint flexibility: All joints should move smoothly. Stiff or sticky joints indicate cleaning needed or potential wear issues.

Link wear inspection: Each link and connection point can wear. Regular inspection catches developing problems early.

Ported Bits (Happy Tongue, etc.)

Clean inside the port: The curved area inside ported mouthpieces can accumulate debris. Use cloths or soft brushes to clean thoroughly inside the port area.

Check port integrity: Ensure the port hasn't developed sharp edges or rough spots where it curves.

Curb Chains and Accessories

If your Bombers bit includes a curb chain (pelhams, kimblewicks):

Clean regularly: Curb chains should be cleaned as thoroughly as the bit itself. Rinse after each use, clean weekly with mild soap.

Check for wear: Links wear over time, particularly where they contact the chin groove. Replace curb chains showing significant wear.

Proper storage: Store curb chains attached to their bits to prevent loss and tangling.

Rubber or leather guards: If your curb chain has rubber or leather chin guards, clean these regularly and inspect for cracking or degradation.

Safety Inspection Schedule

Regardless of material, implement a regular safety inspection schedule:

After Every Use

• Visual check for obvious damage
• Feel mouthpiece for developing rough spots
• Confirm all moving parts move correctly

Weekly

• Thorough cleaning and detailed inspection
• Check all joints and connections
• Verify no sharp edges developing

Monthly

• Comprehensive safety inspection
• Measure mouthpiece thickness at key points
• Assess overall wear and remaining life
• Document condition for future reference

Annually

• Professional inspection if possible
• Consideration of whether replacement is approaching
• Update records of bit age and usage

When to Replace Any Bombers Bit

Regardless of material, replace bits when:

Safety concerns exist:

• Any sharp edges or rough spots that could injure mouth tissue
• Broken or damaged components
• Excessive looseness in joints or connections
• Structural deformation or cracks

Significant wear has occurred:

• Mouthpiece diameter reduced noticeably from wear
• Joints or links wearing thin
• Moving parts no longer moving smoothly
• Overall integrity compromised

Material degradation:

• Rubber or nylon showing cracking or hardening
• Metal showing corrosion beyond normal oxidation
• Any material changes affecting safety or comfort

When in doubt, replace: If you're questioning whether a bit is still safe, err on the side of caution. The cost of a new bit is insignificant compared to the risk of mouth injury from worn equipment.

Professional Assessment

If you're unsure about your bit's condition, professional assessment is valuable:

• Fitters can evaluate wear objectively
• Identify developing problems you might miss
• Advise on remaining safe life
• Recommend when replacement is prudent

The Fitted Horse offers equipment assessment as part of our fitting services, ensuring your Bombers bits remain safe and effective.

Record Keeping
Maintain simple records for your Bombers bits:

• Purchase date: Helps track age and usage period
• Material: Especially important if you have multiple bits
• Usage level: Daily use vs. occasional use affects wear
• Inspection notes: Document significant wear observations
• Replacement date: When you eventually replace, note why

This information helps you understand typical lifespan for your specific usage patterns and identify when future replacements might be needed.

Storage Best Practices

Proper storage extends bit life significantly:

Clean before storage: Never store dirty bits. Saliva and debris degrade materials faster when left to sit.

Dry thoroughly: Ensure bits are completely dry before storage to prevent unnecessary corrosion or material degradation.

Individual hanging: Hang each bit separately on its own hook or bridle to prevent damage from contact with other equipment.

Climate control: Store in stable temperature and humidity if possible. Avoid extreme heat, cold, or moisture.

Regular use: Bits stored long-term without use may develop issues. If you have bits you rarely use, inspect them thoroughly before use and periodically during storage.

Material Selection for Your Needs

Understanding care requirements can inform material selection when purchasing:

Low maintenance: Stainless steel requires minimal care and lasts longest

Functional oxidation: Sweet iron and copper require accepting appearance changes but offer specific functional benefits

Gentlest option: Moulded materials offer maximum softness but require more frequent replacement

Premium choice: Titanium offers excellent durability with minimal maintenance but at higher cost

Discuss material options with your fitter, considering both your horse's needs and your maintenance preferences.

Proper care of your Bombers bits ensures:

✅ Safety: Well-maintained bits don't develop sharp edges or dangerous wear
✅ Comfort: Clean, smooth bits are more comfortable for your horse
✅ Longevity: Proper care significantly extends bit life
✅ Performance: Bits function as designed when properly maintained
✅ Value: Protecting your investment through good maintenance

The few minutes spent on proper cleaning and inspection after each use, combined with regular thorough maintenance, keeps your Bombers bits safe, comfortable, and effective for years.