Riding helmets can be one of the most important pieces of riding equipment you own, so why not take care of it? Riding helmets can gather sweat, dirt, makeup, and grime, especially along the forehead area. Here are a few things to do after each ride that can help your helmet stay clean!
Storing Your Riding Helmet
Helmets (and hats!) should not be stored in direct sunlight. They are temperature sensitive and direct;ly sunlight can weather and even misshape your hat or helmet. Keep it stored indoors and out of the elements.
You can buy a riding helmet cover or protector to help your helmet stay in pristine condition. There are lots of fun helmet covers if you want something fun and crazy, or there are general navy blue and black colors if you want to keep it simple.
One of the most important storage tips for your helmet is to store it somewhere it can dry. Stuffing it in a bag or stacking helmets when they are sweaty or wet can build bacteria and even mol and make your helmet smell really bad. Make sure it is dry or is stored somewhere where it can be allowed to dry after each session.
Get Rid of That Smell
Your hat might start to give off a certain… aroma after many uses. There are helmet spray and deodorizers you can use to lightly spray your helmet after each use. If the smell persists, it might be time to clean your hat!
Cleaning Your Helmet
For starters, use a damp cloth or stiff brush (depending on the texture of your helmet) and clean the outside. Try not to use any sprays or cleaners on the outside of your helmet. Often, they are made with a certain finish and the sprays could damage or ruin that. One of the most popular riding helmet cleaners is the Charles Owen helmet cleaner pictured below.
A lot of riding helmets have removable chin straps and liners inside. You can remove these and wash them on a delicate cycle or handwash and hang to dry. There are helmet cleaners you can use that will help remove makeup and dirt from inside your helmet – for any pieces that cannot be removed or actually makeup the helmet itself.
A warm, wet cloth can help remove excess dirt too – simply rub in circles until dirt stops showing on your cloth. Allow PLENTY of time to dry completely before putting it back in storage.
Final Thoughts
Cleaning your helmet once a week or so can help it smell and feel better. It only takes a few minutes to give it a quick cleaning which can improve the longevity of your helmet.
Helmets should be replaced every few years and ESPECIALLY after a fall where the rider hits their head. The helmet will not be able to offer the same protection after that and will need a replacement to keep the rider safe!