KEY DIFFERENCES
Both steaming and soaking reduce respirable particles in hay—microscopic irritants linked to equine respiratory disease. Soaking works by dampening dust, making particles less likely to be inhaled. However, it doesn’t remove or kill bacteria and mould—instead, these contaminants remain in the forage.
THE REALITY OF HAY SOAKING
Soaking hay is often used to reduce sugar levels, with studies showing significant reductions after 30 minutes in hot water or 60 minutes in cold. However, results can vary widely—and this comes with important trade-offs.
Alongside sugars, soaking also leaches essential nutrients such as phosphorus, magnesium, vitamins and minerals, leaving forage less balanced nutritionally. At the same time, wet conditions can rapidly increase bacterial growth—with studies showing up to a 150% rise in bacteria in as little as 10 minutes. These bacteria, including enterobacteria, are linked to endotoxins associated with digestive issues such as colic and laminitis.
While soaking dampens dust, it doesn’t remove or kill contaminants. Instead, they may be ingested—shifting the risk from the lungs to the gut.
Practically, soaking is also resource-heavy and inconvenient. It requires 60–100 litres of water per soak, produces effluent significantly more polluting than raw sewage, and can be messy, time-consuming and unpalatable for some horses.
CLEANER HAY. HEALTHIER HORSES.
Haygain High Temperature Steaming is proven to reduce up to 99% of mould, bacteria and allergens, it uses high heat to actively kill harmful contaminants. By reaching and maintaining temperatures of around 100°C, steam is evenly distributed throughout the hay, deactivating mould, fungi and bacteria while virtually eliminating respirable particles.
Unlike soaking, steaming preserves the nutritional integrity of forage, while still delivering hygienic benefits. Haygain High Temperature Hay Steaming will also reduce sugar content to a small degree, with study results showing reductions typically ranging from 2% to 18%.
REDUCE SUGARS & PROTECT HEALTH.
If you want to Reduce Sugars and Protect Respiratory and Digestive Health - Soaking hay for nine hours, followed by steaming in a Haygain Hay Steamer for 60 minutes, ensures lower sugar in your horse’s diet and forage that is clean, healthy and appetising.
