How to Clean Football Helmets: Keeping Your Gear Safe for Game Day

Football helmets are essential when it comes to keeping your head and brain safe while playing the sport. However, these helmets can be a breeding ground for bacteria and germs, which can lead to health issues if not appropriately cleaned.

In this article, we will guide you through the process of cleaning your football helmet, ensuring that it remains safe for use and reducing the risk of injury or infection. We will also provide you with some tips and tricks to keep your helmet fresh and in pristine condition before and after a game.

Clean Your Helmet Regularly

Cleaning your helmet regularly is essential to keep it free from bacteria, sweat, and germs. Follow these steps below to clean your helmet effectively:

  • Remove all extra equipment and pads from the inside of the helmet
  • Using a soft cloth, clean the shell of your helmet with a mixture of mild soap and warm water.
  • After cleaning, wipe the inside and outside of the helmet with another clean, dry cloth and let it dry entirely.
  • Once the helmet is dry, you can polish the outer shell with a car cleaner or silicone spray to give it a brand-new shine.

How to Clean Football Helmets?

Assemble your cleaning supplies

To clean your football helmet, you’ll need a few items:

  • Warm water
  • Dish soap
  • A soft-bristled brush
  • A microfiber cloth
  • Rubbing alcohol
  • A helmet disinfectant spray

Remove the helmet’s accessories

Before you start cleaning, remove any accessories from your helmet, such as face masks, chin straps, and visors. This will make it easier to clean the helmet surface, and you’ll be able to reach all the parts of your helmet.

Clean the helmet’s exterior

Dampen the cloth with warm water and wipe down the exterior of the helmet. This will remove any dirt or debris that has accumulated during the game. If there are any stubborn stains, mix some dish soap with warm water, dip the brush in the solution, and scrub the helmet gently.

Clean the helmet’s interior

The interior of your football helmet will accumulate sweat, bacteria, and dirt, so it’s essential to keep it clean too. Mix some dish soap with warm water and use a soft-bristled brush to scrub the helmet’s interior, making sure you reach all the corners and crevices. Rinse the helmet thoroughly with warm water and let it dry completely.

Use a Helmet Disinfectant

While cleaning your helmet with soap and water is effective at getting rid of dirt, sweat, and grime, it will not disinfect your helmet from bacteria and germs. Use a helmet disinfectant that’s specifically designed for football helmets. Here are the steps to follow to use a disinfectant properly:

  • Spray the disinfectant on the inside and outside of the helmet
  • Wipe the helmet with a clean, dry cloth
  • Let the helmet dry entirely in a well-ventilated room, away from direct sunlight.
  • Once dry, you can use a helmet sanitizing spray to keep it fresh and clean.
How to Clean Football Helmets
How to Clean Football Helmets

Protect the Helmet

Protecting your helmet is just as important as cleaning it. Here are some tips on how to protect it from damages:

  • Store your helmet in a cool, dry place
  • Avoid keeping your helmet in direct sunlight, as it can damage the shell’s material
  • Never place heavy objects on top of the helmet as it can crack or deform the shell
  • Use a helmet bag to keep the helmet safe and protected from scratches and other damages.

Avoid Dishwasher

While you may be tempted to throw your helmet in the dishwasher, it’s not the best idea. The dishwasher can damage the helmet’s padding, and the high temperature can cause the shell to warp. Instead, stick to cleaning your helmet using mild soap and warm water.

Tips to Keep Your Helmet Fresh and in Great Condition

Here are some tips to ensure your helmet remains fresh, clean, and in perfect condition:

  • Wash your helmet’s chin strap with mild soap and warm water regularly
  • Use helmet sanitizing spray to keep it fresh after every game
  • Don’t share your helmet with others as it can transfer bacteria and germs from one person to another
  • Keep a pack of wet wipes handy to clean your helmet’s interior during games and practices.

When to Replace Your Helmet

While proper cleaning and maintenance can prolong your helmet’s life span, all helmets have an expiration date. Replace your helmet if you experience any of the following:

  • Dents, scratches, or cracks on the outer shell
  • A loose or missing chin strap
  • Pads that are worn out or no longer fit properly
  • If your helmet is older than ten years.

Conclusion

Now that you know how to clean your football helmet effectively, you can always be game-ready with a clean and germ-free helmet. Remember to always protect your helmet from damage, avoid the dishwasher and replace it when necessary. Stay safe and healthy while playing football and enjoy the game knowing that your helmet is safe and clean.

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