Haygain FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
For horse owners, trainers, and yard managers curious about hay steaming and the Haygain range.
1. What is a Haygain hay steamer?
A Haygain steamer is a purpose-built device that uses high-temperature steam to clean hay from the inside out. It eliminates dust, mould, bacteria, and other allergens while preserving the hay’s nutritional value.
2. Why should I steam my hay?
Steaming improves hay hygiene, making it safer and healthier for your horse. It removes up to 99% of mould, fungal spores, and bacteria—helping to prevent respiratory issues and improve palatability.
3. Is steaming better than soaking hay?
Yes. While soaking can reduce dust, it can also increase bacterial growth and cause nutrient leaching. Steaming is more hygienic, doesn’t leach nutrients, and produces consistent, safe results.
4. What health conditions does hay steaming help with?
Hay steaming is particularly effective for horses with:
Respiratory issues (e.g., coughing, IAD, RAO)
Allergies or sensitivities
Poor appetite or fussy eating
Performance recovery or immune compromise
5. Does steaming hay change its nutritional value?
No. Haygain steaming preserves the nutritional integrity of the forage. In fact, by removing harmful microbes and improving palatability, it can lead to better intake and absorption.
6. Can I steam haylage or silage?
Hay steaming is designed specifically for dry hay. Haylage and silage already undergo fermentation and are not suitable for steaming.
7. How long does the steaming process take?
Typically, it takes around 60 minutes to fully steam a load of hay, depending on the model and volume.
8. What models are available in Ireland through ARKequine?
ARKequine supplies the full Haygain range, including:
HG One (perfect for single horses)
HG 600 (ideal for small to medium yards)
HG 2000 (best for large yards and professional operations)
9. Is the steamer easy to use and maintain?
Yes. Haygain units are designed for everyday stable use. They’re robust, insulated, and easy to clean. Just add water, plug in, and steam.
10. Can steaming help reduce hay waste?
Absolutely. Horses often leave dry or dusty hay, but steamed hay becomes softer and more aromatic—leading to better intake and less waste.
11. Is it safe to feed steamed hay right away?
Yes. Steamed hay is ready to feed immediately after the cycle finishes. In fact, it’s at its best when fed warm and moist straight from the steamer.
12. Can I travel with a Haygain unit?
The smaller models like the HG One are portable and ideal for shows, travel, and short stays away from the yard.
13. What kind of hay works best in a steamer?
Any good-quality dry hay—meadow, ryegrass, timothy, or a mix—can be steamed. Steaming improves even higher-end hay by removing harmful microbes and enhancing softness and aroma.
14. Do vets recommend hay steaming?
Yes. Many vets across Ireland and internationally recommend Haygain for horses with respiratory conditions or those on high-performance workloads. It’s also widely used in veterinary hospitals.
15. Where can I order a Haygain steamer in Ireland?
Directly through ARKequine, the official distributor for Haygain in Ireland and Northern Ireland. Visit www.arkequine.com/haygain for more details or to speak with our team.
Still have questions? Contact our expert team via email or phone, and we’ll help you find the right Haygain model for your horse or yard.
