How to Clean a Baseball & Softball Helmet

Understanding the Materials of Your Helmet

There are two pieces of your baseball and softball helmet that need to be cleaned, including the plastic outer shell and the foam padding inside your helmet.

• Plastic Shell: The shell is usually made out of acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) or polycarbonate. This material can withstand hard impact, however, it is sensitive to certain chemicals that are in regular household cleaning products. 

• Foam Padding: The foam padding easily absorbs sweat and other bacteria, causing the helmet to become unsanitary over time. The foam is typically water-resistant, so the choice of cleaning solution varies depending on the level of buildup and material compatibility.

Supplies

Before you start cleaning your baseball helmet, gather all the necessary supplies:

• Microfiber cloth

• Soap & water

• Specialized sports cleaning spray

Exterior Cleaning

Step 1: Clean dirt & debris 

First, wipe off easy debris with a damp towel, and then use soap and water to scrub off stains. If there are tougher stains, try using a specialized sports cleaning spray. Do not use regular household cleaning sprays even if they are natural as they can damage the helmet.

Interior Cleaning

Step 2: Remove the inner padding (if applicable)

Wipe down the inner with just a cloth. Once you have removed the padding, generously spray the interior with your specialized sports cleaning spray and wipe down the interior of the helmet.

Step 3: Cleaning the Padding

Rinse in only warm water until all debris is gone. You can soak the pads in warm water if there is an excess amount of buildup.

Step 4: Air Dry

Simply just let your helmet and the inside pads air dry fully! You can reinsert the pads when both pieces are completely dry.

Caring for Your Helmet

Cleaning your helmet isn’t the only thing that you can do to make sure your helmet is in the best possible condition. Proper storage and knowing when you need to replace your helmet will keep you as safe as possible.

Storing Your Helmet

Store your helmet in a cool dry area where it is not in contact with outside elements/direct sunlight. Don't place heavy items on top to avoid cracks or dents. We recommend hanging your helmet up, such as on a coat rack. 

Replacing Your Helmet

Helmets should be replaced about every 3-5 years to ensure they are up to date and able to protect against impact. Other reasons to replace your helmet can include:

• If there are visible cracks, dents, or deformations. 

• The padding inside is worn down and the helmet is loose.

• If there has been a significant, hard impact that would alter the condition of your helmet.

For a season of baseball and softball, cleaning your helmet is helpful to make the life of it last! If you have additional questions about how to clean your helmet or what types of cleaning products to use, stop by your local SCHEELS to speak with a Baseball Expert.