Stinking helmet

jimmocrates

In short, my helmet(s) stink. After a few years worth of sweat soaked into the straps and pads, both of them absolutely stink.
I've not had any falls in that time, so rather spend my money on other bike frivalties rather than helmets - whats the best way of cleaning them/getting rid of the smell? Fabreeze?
cheers

wishitwasallflat

I wash the pads with antibacterial hand soap

http://www.halfpriceperfumes.co.uk/en/s ... tAodDVwAGA

after every ride. I scrub the straps with a nail brush and same soap maybe every 3/4 months ( ie when they reek!) And hang on the line to dry.

Works fine keeps it fresh.

danlikesbikes

Use this stuff myself, not the cheapest option but it does the job more than well.

http://muc-off.com/rider-care/69-foam-f ... 99000.html

ElectronShepherd

Pads - detach from helmet, tuck in a sock, and into the wash with the other cycling stuff.

Straps and helmet - work up a lather with an anti-bacterial hand soap, work it into the straps, wash the inside of the helmet itself and rinse off.

jimmocrates

How many washes do you get out of a can of the muc-off foam? Al the other muc-off products I've tried have been top notch.

danlikesbikes

Only on my first can (was bought as a present) & had about 25 so far. It's like the carpet cleaner foam sprays you can buy in that a little really does expand a lot

fatsmoker

Normal shampoo at the end of every commuting week and/or after a long aweekend ride for me

BrandonA

Jimmocrates wrote:

How many washes do you get out of a can of the muc-off foam? Al the other muc-off products I've tried have been top notch.

Lots. I've had mine all season. The stuff is very good.

If I can't be bothered to use the muc off I simply take the helmet into the shower with me and let the shampoo and shower gel get into it.

MountainMonster

What I do with my gloves/hats, although not entirely the same as the padding with a helmet, is wash them in the sink with warm water and some dish soap. I've been doing it for years, it takes about 2 minutes, and you get the satisfaction of getting to see the dirt and grime out too (makes me feel like I've really cleaned them).

If your helmet has removable padding this would be worth a try, as I doubt the Styrofoam/material would get smelly.

laurentian

I am told that smelly running shoes can be made better by putting them in the freezer over night . . .

peat

laurentian wrote:

I am told that smelly running shoes can be made better by putting them in the freezer over night . . .

That's true. It can kill the odor producing bacteria.

You could try it with the pads if they come out, but I wouldn't try it with a whole helmet. The thermal change might damaged the interfaces between the plastic and polystyene parts.

arran77

BrandonA wrote:

If I can't be bothered to use the muc off I simply take the helmet into the shower with me and let the shampoo and shower gel get into it.

Shower for cleaning helmets gets my vote as well, far less hassle, you've got to have a shower anyway so just wash your helmet too :oops:

cougie

I just rinse my helmet pads and straps under the tap when I get in. Works for me. Its usually only the one ride a week for me most weeks so they're dry for the next.

Febreze works incredibly well for running and cycling shoes and to refresh a jacket that might be a bit sweaty but not dirty. I'll avoid washing kit if it doesnt need it. Obv base layers shorts and tops go in every time.

gazman428

I wash the pads then the helmet in the sink using head and shoulders.

Moontrane

arran77 wrote:

BrandonA wrote:

If I can't be bothered to use the muc off I simply take the helmet into the shower with me and let the shampoo and shower gel get into it.

Shower for cleaning helmets gets my vote as well, far less hassle, you've got to have a shower anyway so just wash your helmet too :oops:

Yeah, this. Also, removing the pads will, over time, cause the velcro to stick less effectively. I just let them become wet and then press the water from them.

drummer_boy

I used to wash them in the washing machine (removable pads), but then I discovered cycling caps!! Cap under helmet, gets washed weekly, helmut doesn't smell. 2 caps at £1.99 each, and the jobs a good 'un.

Stops sweat dripping in my eyes in summer, keeps the rain out in winter as well.

The Mechanic

Buy a new helmet. You know you really want to.

type:epyt

Shower and washing up liquid works well. Just make sure the water isn't too hot as it sometimes melts the bonding on the edge of the pads (same goes for removeable pads in the sink).