Motorcycle Helmet - Caring for Yours

Your motorcycle helmet is critical to your protection from injury in the case of an accident. It deserves the proper care to maintain the expected quality. With normal wear and usage, motorcycle helmets should be replaced about every five years. Some manufacturers, however, recommend replacing a helmet every two to four years. Proper care will help ensure that your motorcycle helmet remains in top shape during its lifetime.

Basic care for your motorcycle helmet requires keeping the outside as well as the inside of the helmet clean. For helmets with a glossy finish, automotive cleaning and polishing products can be used. If deep cleaning is necessary, rubbing compounds may be used, although these may actually dull the finish if used excessively. Warm water and a mild soap can be used to clean either a glossy or non-glossy finish motorcycle helmet. Avoid petroleum-based cleaning products, as these can cause the helmet to deteriorate.

Ensure that your helmet is completely dry before storing it. Motorcycle helmets should not be stored in extremely cold or hot areas. Exposure to extreme temperatures can cause the helmet to deteriorate. The normal storage area for your helmet should be a cool, dry space. Keep your helmet away from gasoline, exhaust fumes, and cleaning fluids. These materials can damage the helmet.

Many newer model motorcycle helmets feature removable liners. These liners can be taken out and washed using a mild soap, such as Woolite. A product such as Helmet Fresh can be used on liners that are not removable to help eliminate bacteria and mildew. If the helmet’s cheek pads are removable, take these out and wash or replaced as needed.

Periodically clean your motorcycle helmet’s air vents. Canned compressed air or dust remover, which are typically used to remove dust from computer keyboards, can be used to clear any objects from the vents. If your helmet has removable pads, take these out before cleaning the helmet vents.

It is important to keep the face shield of your motorcycle helmet clean and free of scratches. Both dirt and scratches can impair your vision. Clean the shield with mild soap and water. Use a soft cloth to prevent scratches.

Modifications to your helmet are not recommended. Redesigning your motorcycle helmet by drilling holes, painting, cutting any part of the helmet, removing original parts, or adding accessories can compromise your protection. Buying a new helmet that meets your requirements is a safer option.

Proper handling of your motorcycle helmet is essential. Although these helmets are sturdy, rough handling can cause damage and result in a loss of protection for you. Motorcycle helmets should not be dropped on hard surfaces. Some riders hang their helmets on the motorcycle, but this can damage the helmet’s inner liner. A spare motorcycle helmet should not be carried on a motorcycle unless it is secure and protected. Movement from normal motorcycle riding can cause damage to the helmet. The inner lining of the helmet can melt if it is exposed to the motorcycle’s hot engine or exhaust pipes.