Helmet care: cleaning the liner and visor

A dirty liner holds sweat and odors, and a scratched visor hurts visibility at dusk and in the rain. Autumn riding makes both matter. The job takes about half an hour and extends the helmet's life.

• Remove the removable liner and cheek pads, noting how they attach.
• Hand-wash them in warm water with mild soap, no bleach or harsh chemicals. Don't wring or twist them hard.
• Air-dry the liner at room temperature, away from radiators and hair dryers: heat damages the foam and fabric.
• Take off the visor as the manufacturer describes, rinse it with warm water and a drop of mild soap, then pat it dry with a soft cloth without rubbing.
• Keep solvents away from the shell foam, and wipe the visor seals with a damp cloth.
• Check that the visor closes snugly and that the liner hasn't lost its springiness or become too loose or too tight.