diff --git a/rhodecode/lib/colander_utils.py b/rhodecode/lib/colander_utils.py
new file mode 100644
--- /dev/null
+++ b/rhodecode/lib/colander_utils.py
@@ -0,0 +1,30 @@
+# -*- coding: utf-8 -*-
+
+# Copyright (C) 2016-2016  RhodeCode GmbH
+#
+# This program is free software: you can redistribute it and/or modify
+# it under the terms of the GNU Affero General Public License, version 3
+# (only), as published by the Free Software Foundation.
+#
+# This program is distributed in the hope that it will be useful,
+# but WITHOUT ANY WARRANTY; without even the implied warranty of
+# MERCHANTABILITY or FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE.  See the
+# GNU General Public License for more details.
+#
+# You should have received a copy of the GNU Affero General Public License
+# along with this program.  If not, see <http://www.gnu.org/licenses/>.
+#
+# This program is dual-licensed. If you wish to learn more about the
+# RhodeCode Enterprise Edition, including its added features, Support services,
+# and proprietary license terms, please see https://rhodecode.com/licenses/
+
+
+def strip_whitespace(value):
+    """
+    Removes leading/trailing whitespace, newlines, and tabs from the value.
+    Implements the `colander.interface.Preparer` interface.
+    """
+    if isinstance(value, basestring):
+        return value.strip(' \t\n\r')
+    else:
+        return value