Cleaning your helmet is one of the most simple and effective tasks you can complete after a long day of motos, but chances are it’s the least cleaned item in most riders’ gear bags.

It’s kind of funny that most riders will pull a set of clean gear out of their bag come ride day, meanwhile the piece of equipment that they have to stick their head into all day is the one that doesn’t seem to receive the same post-ride wash ritual.

Truth is, in most cases, it probably hasn’t even seen the light of day since it was packed away after the last ride.

These days almost any decent helmet will have a removable liner, so take advantage of it! Here are a couple of easy ways that take next to no time, and will keep your lid smelling brand new ride after ride.

Machine Wash
Perhaps the easiest way to get your helmet liner clean is simply throw it in the washing machine with the rest of your gear. Most liners are simply fabric, foam, and a little plastic, so throwing them in the wash will bring it up clean and fresh without the risk of doing any damage.

Showered
If you’re not happy to chuck a part of your precious crash-hat in the wash with the rest of your gear, simply take it for a shower. While you’re shampooing the dirt from the day out of your hair, just massage some into your helmet liner as well. Afterwards, simply give it a good rinse and it should be clean as a whistle.

Whatever method you choose, just make sure you hang it out to dry thoroughly before re-installing it.

While the liner is drying, get a soft rag and some water, and give your helmet a quick clean up and polish. Often it pays to remove the peak to get into those hard to reach places.

Once it’s clean and dry, clip it back together and you’re good to go.

On the weeks when you don’t give it the full treatment, make sure you at least take the helmet out of its cover and gearbag for a good airing.

Take a little time to show your lid some love, and you’ll be pumped with your decision the next time you ride.