According to Equus Magazine, “It’s a standard rule to discard any helmet that was struck hard in a fall. As a general rule, it’s best to get a new helmet every five or six years—replace your helmet sooner if it’s been exposed to extreme temperatures or chemicals like those found in automatic fly spray dispensers.”
It’s also common sense to replace a helmet with any visible signs of wear and tear on the harness, chin strap or clips, or cracking, peeling, or dents.
Don’t need to replace your helmet?
9 Tips for Care and Cleaning your Helmet.
- Most helmets have a liner that you can remove. You can then hand wash this liner with cold water and mild soap. Allow to air dry completely away from the sun.
- Clean the exterior with a soft cloth, and brush the interior with a soft tooth brush. You can use cold water and mild soap on the exterior if it’s plastic. If it’s a leather exterior, use a dark damp cloth. and a bit of leather cleaner if necessary.
- Let your helmet air dry, but not in the sun, after each use and after cleaning.
- You can use compressed air to clean the helmet’s vents and channels.
- Do not machine wash, put in dish washer, or dry clean.
- DO NOT use or spray any products other than mild soap on your helmet. The chemicals can ruin the protective coating and compromise the integrity of the helmet.
- Store your helmet away from direct sun, chemicals, solvents, bug sprays, cleaning products, or fertilizers. Do not store your helmet in your car where temperatures can exceed 100 degrees.
Action Rider Kaidyn Griggs - Store your helmet in a bag that has ventilation so it can dry out between uses. This will also help keep it clean.
- To keep your helmet smelling fresh and clean, throw a dryer sheet into your helmet bag.
Be safe, have fun, always wear your helmet.