Motorcycle helmets are more than just protective gear for riders. They are an extension of their personality and style. But with every adventure comes dirt, sweat, and grime, leaving even the most vibrant helmet looking dull and unappealing. That’s why knowing how to clean a motorcycle helmet is crucial.
To clean a motorcycle helmet, remove any removable parts and wash them separately. Use mild soap and warm water to clean the exterior and interior of the helmet. Dry with a soft cloth and allow to air dry completely before reassembly.
In this article, I will guide you through the step-by-step process of effectively cleaning your motorcycle helmet to ensure its longevity and maintain its pristine appearance.
So, let’s get started.
Why Need To Clean Your Motorcycle Helmet?
Maintaining your motorbike helmet’s beauty and performance requires cleaning. It enhances hygiene and helmet cleanliness.
Let’s check out why motorcycle helmets must be cleaned regularly.
- Improved Visibility: A helmet’s visor improves visibility when riding. It can accumulate dirt, bugs, and other debris, obscuring your view. Cleaning your helmet clears the visor, boosting sight and road safety.
- Enhanced Comfort: Helmets can get sweaty and smelly if worn for long durations. Cleaning your helmet periodically removes unwanted scents and keeps it fresh. Cleaning your helmet’s padding removes dirt and sweat, making it more comfortable.
- Prolongs Helmet Life: A motorbike helmet is an expensive purchase. Cleaning prevents dirt and grime from deteriorating the helmet’s materials. Cleaning your helmet frequently extends its life and ensures it provides enough protection for years. ( But you should know that helmets expire at some point. We have detailed content about does motorcycle helmets expire, you can read).
- Hygiene: Motorcycle helmets face dusty roads and humid circumstances. Bacteria, germs, and other pathogens can grow. Cleaning your helmet can reduce the spread of bacteria and improve hygiene, reducing the risk of infections and other health issues.
- Aesthetics: Finally, clean helmets look nicer. A clean helmet shows you value safety and appearance. Frequent cleaning keeps the helmet looking new.
Washing your motorbike helmet maintains its performance, hygiene, and appearance.
Cleaning your helmet regularly improves vision, comfort, durability, hygiene, and look. To maintain your helmet, clean it after every ride or once a month.
However, replacing the helmet after a certain time is very important. But do you know when you should replace your helmet? Please read my other content for details on when to replace your motorcycle helmet.
How To Clean A Motorcycle Helmet? A Step-By-Step Guide
Have you ever thought about how to clean your motorcycle helmet properly?
A clean, well-maintained helmet is crucial to keeping yourself safe while on the road. It is important to regularly clean your helmet to extend its life and keep it in good working condition.
Now, I will discuss the steps you should take to clean your motorcycle helmet properly.
Step 1: Gather the Necessary Materials
Cleaning your helmet regularly not only keeps it looking good but also makes sure it works right. But what materials do you need to clean a motorcycle helmet effectively?
Before cleaning your helmet, you must ensure you have the right materials. To clean a motorcycle helmet, you’ll need the following:
- Microfiber cloth or sponge
- Mild soap or helmet cleaner
- Water
- Soft-bristled brush (optional)
- A towel or cloth for drying
- Helmet deodorizer (optional)
It’s important to avoid using abrasive materials like rough cloths, sponges with harsh surfaces, or cleaners with strong chemicals that can damage the helmet’s exterior or interior lining.
Additionally, avoiding using hot water or a hair dryer to dry the helmet is recommended, as this can also cause damage.
Step 2: Prepare the Helmet
Once you have the necessary materials, you must prepare the helmet for cleaning.
Use a soft-bristled brush or a microfiber cloth to remove dirt or debris from the helmet’s exterior. Pay attention to areas that accumulate dirt, such as vents, crevices, and the chin strap.
Then, remove any accessories attached to the helmet, such as the visor or communication devices. Then, detach the helmet’s interior padding and liner, if possible. These parts can be washed separately.
Step 3: Clean the Helmet
Cleaning your motorcycle helmet is essential to maintain its integrity and ensure your safety.
Here I am sharing the cleaning procedure of every part of the helmet to follow for cleaning your motorcycle helmet properly:
How Do You Clean A Motorcycle Helmet Visor?
Most helmets have a removable visor that can be removed with a simple latch or screw mechanism. Remove it and set it aside to clean it separately. Cleaning procedures are:
- Start by removing the visor from the helmet. Most visors can be released with a lever or switch on the side of the helmet.
- Once the visor is removed, gently clean it with a soft cloth soaked in soapy water.
- Rinse the visor with clean water and dry it with a soft cloth.
- If the visor is still not clean, use a mild glass cleaner. Apply the cleaner to a soft cloth and wipe the visor in a circular motion.
- Once the visor is clean, reattach it to the helmet, and you’re good to go.
How To Clean The Inside Of A Motorcycle Helmet?
Clean the interior of a motorbike helmet to keep it odor-free. Here are how to clean your motorcycle helmet’s interior:
- First, take off the helmet liner. Most helmet liners are easily removable. Consult the manufacturer’s directions for proper removal.
- Hand washes the helmet liner. Fill a sink or bucket with warm water and mild detergent. Gently agitate the helmet lining in water. Bleach and strong chemicals can harm liner fabric. Rinse well and air dry.
- Clean the helmet shell with a soft cloth or sponge and mild soap. Use gentle cleansers to avoid scratching the helmet. Dirt and sweat tend to collect around the vents and chin straps.
- After drying the liner and shell, disinfectant spray destroys any lingering bacteria and germs. Most motorcycle shops sell helmet disinfecting sprays.
- Reassemble the helmet. After drying and disinfecting the helmet shell, carefully replace the liner. Secure all snaps, tabs, and fasteners.
These methods will clean the interior of your motorbike helmet and keep it fresh for your next trip.
How To Clean Outside Of Motorcycle Helmet
Do you want to know how to clean a motorcycle helmet outside? Motorcycle helmets must be cleaned regularly to maintain good condition and protect riders.
To clean a motorcycle helmet’s outside, follow these steps:
- Clean the helmet with a soft-bristled brush or microfiber cloth. Compressed air can also be used to clean the helmet’s crevices.
- Combine a little mild soap or helmet cleanser with water in a bucket. Apply the solution to the helmet’s exterior using a microfiber cloth or soft sponge. Avoid aggressive chemicals and abrasives that can harm the helmet.
- Scrub the helmet in circles, carefully examining the visor and chin strap. Scratching the helmet’s surface can occur if you scrape too hard.
- Rinse the helmet with clean water to eliminate soap residue. Soap residue can attract dirt and grime, so remove it altogether.
- Clean, dry microfiber cloth to dry the helmet. Heat can damage the helmet’s structure and protective properties, so don’t use it to dry it.
- After the helmet is dry, apply a silicone-based protectant or helmet wax. This will shield the helmet’s surface from UV radiation and other environmental variables.
Following these tips, you can keep your motorbike helmet clean, well-maintained, and safe for years.
Step 4: Use a Motorcycle Helmet Cleaner
For a deeper clean, you may use a cleaning solution, helmet cleaning kit, or helmet spray specifically designed for motorcycle helmets.
Follow the instructions on the cleaner and apply it to the helmet using a soft cloth.
Allow the cleaner to sit briefly before wiping it off with a damp cloth. Finish the job using a clean, dry cloth to remove any remaining moisture.
Step 5: Dry the Helmet
Once you’ve finished cleaning the helmet, you’ll need to dry it thoroughly. Allow the helmet to air dry in a well-ventilated area.
Do not use a hair dryer or other heat source which could damage the helmet.
That’s all about how to clean a motorcycle helmet. Cleaning a motorcycle helmet is an essential task for any rider.
By following this guide and using the suitable materials, you can ensure your helmet is clean and safe for years.
Additional Tips To Keep In Mind When Cleaning A Motorcycle Helmet
Here are some other tips to keep in mind when cleaning a motorcycle helmet:
- Before cleaning your helmet, be sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions. Different helmet models and materials may have different cleaning requirements, so following the instructions is essential.
- Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners when cleaning your helmet, as they can damage its shell or lining. Instead, use a gentle cleaning solution specifically designed for helmets or a mild soap solution.
- Avoid using hot water when cleaning your helmet, as it can damage the helmet’s foam liner. Instead, rinse any dirt or grime using cool or lukewarm water.
- Avoid submerging your helmet in water or using a high-pressure washer, as this could damage the helmet’s integrity.
- If you have a Bluetooth or communication system installed in your helmet, remove it before cleaning and reattach it according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Be sure to store your helmet in a dry, cool place when not in use to prevent any moisture buildup or damage.
How Do I Prevent My Motorcycle Helmet From Becoming Smelly?
Do you love riding your motorcycle but hate the smell of your helmet? Don’t worry. You’re not alone. Many riders experience helmet odor and want to know how to prevent it.
Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to keep your helmet smelling fresh.
Step 1: Clean Your Helmet Regularly
Keeping your helmet clean is the best way to prevent it from becoming smelly. Remove the lining from your helmet and wash it in warm water with mild detergent.
Rinse it thoroughly and dry it completely before putting it back in the helmet. You should also clean the outside of your helmet with a damp cloth or sponge.
Step 2: Let Your Helmet Air Out
After you’ve cleaned your helmet, it’s essential to let it air out. Keeping your helmet in a dark, enclosed space like a closet can cause odor-causing bacteria to grow.
Make sure to leave your helmet in a well-ventilated area so that it can dry completely. This will help reduce the chances of your helmet becoming smelly.
Step 3: Use an Odor Neutralizer
If your helmet still has a lingering odor, use an odor neutralizer to help. These products are designed to eliminate odors and leave your helmet smelling fresh. Before using an odor neutralizer, please read the instructions carefully and follow them closely.
Step 4: Store Your Helmet Properly
When you’re not using your helmet, it’s essential to store it properly. Please keep it in a cool, dry place and away from direct sunlight. This will help reduce the chances of your helmet becoming smelly.
By following these steps, you can help keep your helmet smelling fresh. Clean a motorcycle helmet regularly, let it air out, use an odor-neutralizer, and store it properly.
You can keep your helmet smelling great with a little effort and enjoy your motorcycle rides even more.
Frequently Asked Questions And Answers
What Products Should You Use To Clean A Motorcycle Helmet?
Can You Machine Wash A Motorcycle Helmet?
How Do You Clean A Motorcycle Helmet After A Crash?
How Often Should You Clean Your Motorcycle Helmet?
(Our other content- How To Avoid Sweat While Wearing Helmet? I hope this content helps you to avoid excessive sweating while wearing a helmet).
Sum Up
Keeping your motorbike helmet clean is essential for safety and aesthetics. A clean helmet lets you see the road without dirt or filth. Cleaning your helmet regularly might improve its lifespan and protect you for longer.
But how to clean a motorcycle helmet? Cleaning a motorcycle helmet is simple. Start by removing any removable elements like the visor or lining, then use mild soap and warm water to clean the external shell. Use a microfiber cloth or soft-bristled brush to remove stubborn filth and grime.
Finally, let your helmet air dry before reassembling it. You can keep your motorbike helmet clean and well-maintained with these simple procedures.
Don’t ignore motorcycle helmet maintenance. Follow the manufacturer’s maintenance instructions and clean it periodically. Doing so will make your helmet look beautiful and protect you on every ride.
Hey there, welcome to my blog!
I’m Rouean Christopher, born on May 3, 1987, in Chicago, Illinois. I live at 456 Oak Street, Anytown, USA. You can reach me at (555) 987-6543 or email me at rouean.christopher@example.com.
I started my journey in helmets after graduating from Northwestern University with a degree in Mechanical Engineering. At university, I studied materials science, which got me interested in helmet tech.
After college, I went to MIT for my Master’s, focusing on better materials for protective gear. That led me to work with top companies and research new helmet designs.
With over ten years in helmets, I’ve helped make safety standards better. I’ve worked on new designs and tested helmets to make sure they protect people well.
Outside of work, I love hiking and taking photos of nature. Join me here for tips and updates on helmets. Let’s make sure everyone stays safe out there!
Whether you want to learn more about helmets or improve your helmet-wearing skills, you’ll find everything you need on this blog to become an expert in helmet safety. So, stay tuned for more exciting and informative content.