A helmet protects your head from the most serious injuries, as well as from rain, wind, insects and stones thrown up by other vehicles. After a few rides the visor collects bugs and dust, the shell loses its gloss and the lining soaks up sweat and starts to smell.
Care for your helmet at least once a month during the season and whenever it gets noticeably dirty. The visor, shell and lining each need a different approach, and the visor mechanism needs occasional lubrication so it does not stick while riding. WD-40 Specialist Silicone is suitable for that.
What you will need
- Warm water and mild liquid soap
- Soft microfibre cloths and paper towels
- A soft brush for the lining
- Delicate laundry detergent (for a removable lining)
- WD-40 Specialist Silicone 250 ml for the visor mechanism
- A helmet bag for storage
Important: Never use glass cleaner, solvents, alcohol or abrasives on the visor: they destroy anti-fog and anti-scratch coatings. Do not apply any lubricant to the visor surface. A helmet that is cracked, has been dropped or involved in an impact, or has a broken fastener must be replaced, not repaired.
Step 1
Remove the visor
The visor is easiest to clean when removed: you can treat both sides and reach the mechanism. Fixings vary by model: on some you raise the visor fully and press a release catch, on others you undo screws under the side covers.
If you are unsure, check your helmet's manual. Never force the visor off, or you may break the mounts.
Step 2
Clean the visor and shell
Lay a warm, damp towel over the visor for a few minutes to soften insect remains, then wipe gently with a soft cloth and soapy water without pressing. Mirrored visors scratch especially easily, so use damp paper towels on them. Dry with soft microfibre, and only blot the inner side.
Wipe the shell with a cloth dipped in soapy water, paying attention to the front and the vents. Do not wash the helmet under running water, or the lining will get wet. Clean matte helmets with a soft damp cloth only, without polishes.
Step 3
Clean the lining
If the lining is removable, unclip the pads carefully and note where each one goes (take a photo). Hand-wash them in warm water with delicate detergent, soak for a few hours if needed, rinse, and press the water out with a towel rather than wringing.
Clean a fixed lining with a soft brush and wipe it with a damp cloth and a little soap, or use a dedicated helmet foam cleaner.
Step 4
Dry and store it properly
Dry the helmet and lining at room temperature with the visor half open. Never use a radiator, tumble dryer or direct sun: overheating harms the protective foam inside the shell. A lining can take up to two days to dry fully.
Step 5
Lubricate the visor mechanism
If the visor opens stiffly or jerks between clicks, lubricate the mechanism. Use the thin straw of WD-40 Specialist Silicone to apply a very small amount to the pivots, catches and mounting screws. For full control, spray onto a cotton bud first.
Open and close the visor several times to spread the product and wipe off any excess immediately so it does not reach the clear part. Silicone is safe on plastic and rubber and keeps the visor seal from drying out.
What next
Give the helmet a full clean once a month during the season and before winter storage, and treat the visor seal with silicone every few months. WD-40 Specialist Silicone is also useful for the motorcycle's rubber seals and the mechanisms on riding gear.
These uses come from the experience of WD-40 users in many countries. Always follow the instructions and warnings on the product label.
More guides in «How to use».