CLEANING HELMET LINING

From Tom Torok (19 June 2003)

Pick a day to wash so that you don't need to use the helmet for two days (minimum) following.

1. Remove detachable bits like visor, cheekpads etc.
2. Fill basin or use bathtub (fun to do when having a bath yourself - bring a friend for even more fun, LOL).
3. Pad the tub with a towel or wide-flat sponges or similar - so that helmet shell doesn't hit hard surface while your washing.
4. Submerge helmet to thoroughly wet the lining, then pull out.
5. Using shampoo (nothing stronger), work up a lather on the lining material. (Chances are, if really dirty, that you will have to apply shampoo several times until it foams freely - indicating removal of most of the greasy/salty deposits).
6. Rinse by dunking then shampoo again until satisfied. Final rinse with warm fresh water.

Best situation for drying is warm or sunny, breezy outdoor place.

If possible, expose the washed lining to direct sunlight for a while - that will kill off most remaining microscopic dust mites, bacteria, fungi and/or moulds that cause the original smell of dirty helmet. (it's a jungle in there!)

Do NOT quicken drying with heater. So long as helmet is not dripping wet, electrical devices like TVs, computer monitors or above the 'fridge's heat exchanger (radiator) are gentle enough to be helpful in wet weather.