Helmet Care & Cleaning
About Helmet Care & Cleaning
A helmet collects sweat, dust, bug splatter and road film, and the wrong cleaner can do as much harm as the dirt. Riders use these products to clean the shell, keep a shield clear, refresh the liner and protect the finish.
The products here are made for different parts of the helmet. Shell cleaners and finish protectors are sold for gloss and for matte paint, so match the product to your finish, because a gloss polish can leave shiny patches on a matte shell. Special surface cleaners and microfiber or polishing cloths suit shields. Foaming fresheners, liner refreshers and helmet care aerosols are for the interior and the comfort liner.
As a rule, use products made for helmets and check the maker's instructions, because solvents, fuel and strong household cleaners can damage a shell, the foam liner or a shield coating. A care kit is a convenient start if you need several of these at once. Replacement parts are in Helmet Parts and Visors.
Brands here include Muc-Off, Motorex, Star Brite, S100 and Z1R. Other helmet categories are Helmet Parts, Helmet Accessories and Visor Inserts, all under Helmets Parts & Accessories.
FAQs on helmet cleaning and care
Can I clean a helmet with household cleaners?
It is better not to. Solvents, fuel, window cleaners and strong chemicals can harm the shell, the foam liner or a shield coating. Use a product made for helmets, or mild soap and water, and follow the helmet maker's cleaning instructions.
How do I clean the inside of a helmet?
Many helmets have a removable liner and cheek pads that can be hand washed in lukewarm water with mild soap, then air dried away from heat. Check the manual first, because some liners are not removable. A helmet freshener spray helps between washes.
Can I use gloss polish on a matte helmet?
Use a finish product that says it is safe for matte surfaces. Gloss polishes and waxes can leave shiny patches on matte paint that are hard to remove. Test a small area first and follow the product instructions.
How do I clean a visor without scratching it?
Soak off loose grit with lukewarm water, then wipe gently with a clean microfiber cloth. Dry wiping a dusty shield scratches it, and paper towels are abrasive. Do not rub an inner anti-fog coating, and use only shield cleaners the maker allows.
