P U Stinky Helmet Straps

**nikkoblu2** · 08-18-2010, 07:30 AM

What do you all use to clean the straps on your helmet after it gets all stinky from sweat? I tried using a toothbrush and dishsoap...didn't help. Yesterday I sprayed it with a bit of Febreeze. I can't be the only person with stinky chin straps.

**jarider** · 08-18-2010, 08:00 AM

i hear shampoo works well. Havent tried it myself but I need to lol

**Norse** · 08-18-2010, 08:32 AM

I've never used soap but I do dunk the whole helmet in the bathtub or take it in the shower 2-3 times/year. Seems to keep it from stinking.

**CycleTherapy** · 08-18-2010, 08:59 AM

Shower with a friend....your helmet

Honestly, it's the best method I've found. The Castillo's (sp.?) all natural Peppermint liquid soap is the best.

**soprano** · 08-18-2010, 08:59 AM

I replace the pads every so often when they start to smell and/or fall apart. I only seem to get one summer out of a set of helmet pads. Haven't had trouble with the straps. How long have you had the helmet?

**nikkoblu2** · 08-18-2010, 09:00 AM

I was wondering if taking it in the shower would work. I think I'll give that a try.

**nikkoblu2** · 08-18-2010, 09:02 AM

Ummmm...started riding the summer of 2008, didn't really ride last year, and I've used it for about 600 miles so far this year.

**ny biker** · 08-18-2010, 12:55 PM

My helmet straps get salt stains but they smell okay. Every once in a while I rinse the whole thing in the sink. I take the helmet pads out and rinse them separately.

I have two helmets and I alternate between them so they get time to air out between wearings. Not sure if that makes a difference.

**TsPoet** · 08-18-2010, 01:16 PM

Same thing I use to brush my teeth, same thing I use to wash my dog after a run-in with a skunk...
make a hydrogen peroxide and baking soda paste and smear it on, then wash it off.
Works like a charm.

**MiamiLeslie** · 08-19-2010, 01:49 PM

I *just* did this the other day because my straps were smelling really gross. I just got the straps wet, put some Dreft on my fingers, rubbed it all around on the straps, and then rinsed the straps under the tap. (I tried not to get a lot of soap on the helmet itself. Not sure if that matters, it's just how I did it.) The straps smell nice and clean now!

I'm baby-free, but I've been using Dreft on my gentle and hand-wash laundry ever since Woolite did strange things to some of my nice clothes. It works well.

**bluebug32** · 08-19-2010, 05:32 PM

I second the shower idea. After an extra sweaty ride, I'll lather up with it and then hang it outside to air dry. People are still willing to draft me, so it must be working

**nikkoblu2** · 08-20-2010, 06:38 AM

Great suggestions everyone...thanks (as always)!

**sarahkonamojo** · 08-20-2010, 07:03 AM

Wow. Stinky helmet straps?
This has not occurred to me.
I guess the lack of humidity helps keep the stink down.
In the past, most of my helmets were cheap. I would just buy a new one every 2 years. I have a nice helmet now. Might have to break out the soap.
Don't think me a pig pen. Shorts, socks, and jerseys get washed after every use. Gloves once a week.

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