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Bicycle Helmet Cleaning: Pads, Shell and Safe Drying

Giro's guidance separates removable pad cleaning from wiping the helmet shell, with warnings about solvents, heat, immersion and damage.

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Wikimedia Commons · Photo: Quant / Wikimedia Commons; CC BY-SA 3.0; original image, unmodified · CC BY-SA 3.0 ↗

A helmet is protective equipment, so check for crash damage before cleaning. Do not soak the entire helmet; distinguish removable pads from the shell and follow the exact model manual. A helmet involved in a significant impact may need replacement even if damage is hidden.

Your try-it-at-home checklist

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Before washing, inspect the shell, foam, straps and buckle for cracks or impact damage. If it has taken a serious hit, consult the maker's replacement rules rather than assuming cleaning makes it safe.
Check the model manual and carefully remove only the pads designed to come out. Photograph their positions to guide reinstallation.
Gently hand-wash removable pads with lukewarm water and mild cleaner as allowed by the maker. Do not machine-wash unless your model specifically permits it.
Wipe the helmet shell with a soft sponge or well-wrung cloth. Do not soak the entire helmet or use a high-pressure shower.
Avoid solvents, thinners, petroleum cleaners and abrasive sponges. Do not speed up drying with a hairdryer, heater or strong direct sun.
Air-dry shell and pads fully in a ventilated shaded place. Refit the pads and inspect straps and buckle before use; avoid storing the helmet in a hot vehicle.

Your try-it-at-home checklist

Further reading

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