Whether you are a recreational cyclist or an experienced racer, the helmet is one of the most important equipment. Many mid-to-top models cost upwards of $150 these days, and you want them to maintain the safety features you pay for.
For that reason, you’ll need to take good care of it. There’s a chance that the helmet could be damaged by heat or humidity while not in use if you haven’t stored it properly.
Clean immediately post-ride
Give your helmet a thorough cleaning if you’ve just finished riding in the rain or a hot and sweaty ride.
Store in a cool, dry, and ventilated place
Ideally, you want to store the helmet at room temperature between 68 to 77ºF with a humidity of approximately 70 to 80%. This will minimize the chances of bad odor buildup over time.
Hang it up
Buy some hooks from your local hardware store. Place the hook into one of the vents.
Use the helmet bag provided
Many helmet models, especially mid to high-end ones, come with a soft bag. Use this bag if you won’t be using the helmet for some time.
Don’t leave in the car for extended periods
This happens a lot, especially during the summer. The heat may cause the glue to deform and degrade its lifespan.
Don’t leave under direct sunlight
The helmet has had a lot of UV exposure when in use. You don’t want unnecessary UV exposure that will accelerate its degradation.
Bicycle helmet manufacturers’ recommendations
We recommend storing your helmet in a temperature controlled environment with little moisture. POC provides a soft white helmet bag provided with your purchase that your helmet can be stored in.
POC Sports
Do not leave your helmet in your car or anywhere else near direct or indirect heat sources.
Kask
When not being used for a period of time we recommend that the helmet be placed back into its box or case and stored in a cool, dry place.
Giro
After each use, allow the helmet to air dry and then store it in a cool, dry place where it won’t get damaged. After each use, allow the helmet to air dry and then store it in a cool, dry place where it won’t get damaged.
Bell Helmets
Never leave the helmet in the car on a sunny day or anywhere near direct or indirect heat.
MET Helmets
Alex Lee is the founder and editor-at-large of Mr. Mamil. Coming from a professional engineering background, he breaks down technical cycling nuances into an easy-to-understand and digestible format here.
He has been riding road bikes actively for the past 12 years and started racing competitively in the senior category during the summer recently.