By Jérôme Greco from la louviere, Belgique – Valè, CC BY 2.0, Link

Nobody likes to clean, but a regular cleansing of your helmet can keep it fresh and functional for many rides to come. Not only can a dirty helmet be unsafe, but it can be downright miserable to drive with if the smell has gotten especially ripe. Keep in mind, it’s not enough just to clean your motorcycle gear; you’ve got to do it properly. Here are the basics to make sure you do right by your helmet.

What Parts To Clean 

The gook may be the worst on the outside, but the odor is going to be maxed out on the inside. To do the most thorough job, you’ve got to clean both. In addition to the shell and the lining, you’ll want to give the visor a good rinse and clear any gunk from the vents.

What Supplies To Use

No matter how dirty motorcycle helmets get, you want to avoid strong chemical cleaners during this process. Only use gentle formulas and soft materials for wiping:

• Mild soap
• Baby shampoo
• Microfiber cloths
• Cotton swaps

The problem with using harsher chemicals, particularly on the shell, is that they can destroy the finish or even break down the material’s durability. If you’re going to use any cleaner, make sure it’s designed specifically for the use of cleansing helmets.

How To Do It Right

In most areas of life, scrubbing is a great way to remove stuck-on dirt. With a motorcycle helmet, it’s a terrible approach. When you really apply the elbow grease, you run the risk of scratching the surface. When it’s your visor, you may even compromise your ability to see while riding. Instead of scrubbing, let wet cloths soak into the surface to loosen dirt and then wipe gently to clear it away.

If your helmet has met its end because of poor maintenance, it may be time to replace it. With a lesson learned, you can apply these techniques to the new helmet once you find it. Search for your perfect replacement now.