Helmet Care 101 — Cleaning Funky Liners, Restoring Straps & Knowing When to Replace
Sweat, sunscreen, dust, rain—your helmet sees it all. A little care goes a long way for comfort, smell, and safety.
1) Cleaning the shell & liner (safe methods)
-
Remove pads if possible. Hand‑wash in cool water with mild soap; air‑dry flat.
-
Shell wipe‑down: Use a damp cloth + mild soap. Avoid solvents, harsh cleaners, and high heat.
-
Visors/goggles: Rinse dust first, then blot—don’t grind grit into coatings.
2) Odor & sweat management
-
After rides, air‑dry your helmet in a shaded, ventilated spot.
-
Use moisture‑wicking caps/balaclavas designed for helmets; wash them often.
-
A baking‑soda sachet nearby (not on the liner) can help neutralize smells between rides.
3) Straps, buckles & dials
-
Straps: Hand‑wash with mild soap; inspect for fray, stiffness, or mildew.
-
Buckles: Check snap integrity. If cracked or sticky, contact the manufacturer.
-
Dial fit systems: Brush dust from ratchets; avoid lubricants that can attack plastics.
4) Storage & transport
-
Shade > sun: UV can age shells and pads.
-
Dry > damp: Never store wet in a sealed bin.
-
No heavy loads: Don’t compress the shell/liner with gear piled on top.
5) Inspection checklist (monthly quick look)
-
Shell: Cracks, deep scratches, soft spots?
-
Liner: Any crushed EPS/EPP areas or separation from shell?
-
Hardware: Loose screws on visors or mounts?
-
Fit: Has sizing changed after pad compression?
6) When to replace
-
After a significant impact or hard drop onto a surface.
-
Age: Many brands suggest 3–5 years depending on use and exposure.
-
Damage: If straps, buckles, or adjusters fail or the liner is compromised.
7) Accessories & care
-
Use removable, low‑profile accessories that won’t chew up pads or trap moisture.
-
If adhesive is involved, keep it away from vents and edge trim; avoid strong solvents.
Time for a refresh? Swap in new pads—or add flair that won’t mess with your hard‑won fit. Explore MagNeatOhz and Softeez.
