How to Clean Soot From Firefighter Helmets

Take pride in the cleanliness of your turnout gear.

Some firefighters might think a sooty helmet shows that they aren't on the first run of their career. Though a dirty helmet may prove that you are not a rookie, that soot could contain harmful carcinogens. It also dulls any safety reflectors you have on the helmet. As a professional public servant, take pride in your appearance and clean the soot from your helmet after every fire -- it might just benefit your own health and safety.

Things You'll Need

• Liquid hand dishwashing detergent
• Clean and soft lint-free cloths
• Rubbing alcohol

Instructions

1. Disassemble the helmet. Remove the liner, chinstrap and face shield according to the instructions that came with the helmet. The liner generally attaches with tabs or snaps on the inside of the helmet. Face shields usually come off by unscrewing the nut from the screw on each side of the shield. The chinstrap could snap on or thread through tabs on the helmet. Take note of how you remove each piece so you can reassemble the helmet properly.

2. Soak the liner and chinstrap in a sink filled with cold water mixed with 2 tablespoons of liquid hand dishwashing detergent. Remove the chinstrap after 15 minutes and the liner after 30 minutes. Rinse them with cold water and let them air dry.

3. Apply a squirt of liquid hand dishwashing soap to a damp cloth. Rub the detergent into the cloth with your fingers, then wipe soot off of the helmet. Rinse the helmet in warm water.

4. Remove any remaining soot from the helmet with a rag soaked in rubbing alcohol. Rub the soot stains with the rag until they disappear. Rubbing alcohol is highly flammable, so let the helmet dry thoroughly before you use it.

5. Moisten a clean and soft cotton cloth with water and wipe soot from the face shield. Dry it with a no-scratch lint-free cloth.

Tips & Warnings

• Place your helmet in a freezer for 15 minutes to remove tar. The tar will shrink and you will be able to peel it off.

• Do not remove any reflectors or labels from your helmet. That could make the helmet non-compliant with National Fire Protection Association standards.

• Replace any helmet or helmet parts that are cracked or show other signs of damage.

• Never clean your helmet with petroleum-based cleaning products.

References

• Bullard: Frequently Asked Questions About Our Products and Services
• Phenix Technology: Phenix 1500 First Due Thermal Plastic Fire Helmet Care and Maintenance Manual
• MSA: Compliance Guide for Cairns Fire Helmets

Resources

• National Fire Prevention Association: Home
• State of Washington: Recommended Cleaning Procedures for Protective Turnout Clothing and Station Uniforms