How To Dispose Of Old Motorcycle Helmets?
Motorcycle helmets are an essential piece of protective gear that every rider should wear. They protect the head, neck and face from serious injuries in case of an accident. However, like any other gear, motorcycle helmets also have a lifespan and need to be replaced after a certain period.
So what do you do with your old motorcycle helmet? You can’t just throw it in the trash or donate it to someone else. In this guide, we will discuss how to dispose of old motorcycle helmets and what you can do with them.
How To Dispose Of Old Motorcycle Helmets Responsibly?
When answering the question “How to dispose of old motorcycle helmets?”, the first thing you should keep in mind is to do it responsibly. Simply throwing your helmet away can have several negative impacts on the environment and society as a whole. Here are some ways to dispose of old motorcycle helmets responsibly:
1. Recycling
Recycling is one of the best ways to dispose of your old motorcycle helmets responsibly. You can search for recycling centers in your local area that accept helmets. Most centers recycle helmets by breaking down the shell and padding and then using the material for other products. You can also check with your local waste management authority to see if they can accept helmets. This method not only helps in reducing waste but also conserves natural resources.
2. Donation
A helmet that is no longer safe for riding may still be useful for other purposes. For example, you can donate your old helmet to a museum, a school, or a theater company. They can use the helmet as a prop for a play or display it in a museum exhibit. Charities and thrift stores may also accept the helmet as a donation. Just make sure to disclose any damages or issues with the helmet before donating it.
3. Upcycling
Upcycling is the art of transforming unwanted objects into something new and useful. You can upcycle your old helmet into a birdhouse, a light fixture, or a garden decoration. Look up online for some DIY projects and get creative with your old motorcycle helmet. This not only helps in reducing waste but also gives your helmet a new purpose.
4. Disposal
If you have no other option rather than disposing of your motorcycle helmet, then make sure to dispose of it properly. You can check with your local waste management authority to know which type of bin to use. You can also remove the padding and EPS foam from the helmet before disposing of the shell in the trash. This will make it easier for the shell to be recycled.
5. Trade-in
Some motorcycle gear shops offer a trade-in program where they accept old helmets in exchange for a discount on new helmets. The old helmets they accept will be properly disposed of or recycled. This can be a great way to get rid of your old motorcycle helmet and also save some money on a new one.
To dispose of your helmet safely, you can wrap it in a plastic bag and seal it before throwing it in the trash. This will prevent any sharp or loose parts from injuring anyone who may come across it.
Why Can’t You Just Throw It In The Trash?
Most people often make the mistake of throwing their old helmets in the trash without realizing that they can pose a safety threat. Helmets are usually made from polystyrene foam, which is not biodegradable and can take hundreds of years to decompose in a landfill.
Furthermore, helmets have a hard outer shell made from plastic or fiberglass, which doesn’t break down easily. This means that your old helmet will occupy space in the landfill for years to come, causing harm to the environment.
Recycling Old Motorcycle Helmet Components
Besides recycling the entire helmet, you can also recycle its components separately. Here’s how:
1. Plastic shell:
The outer shell of a motorcycle helmet is usually made from a type of plastic called ABS. This can be recycled at a plastic recycling facility. Before recycling, remove any stickers or decorations from the helmet. When you take the shell to the recycling facility, make sure it’s clean and free of any debris. It’s vital to understand that not all recycling facilities accept motorcycle helmets, so before dropping it off, call and confirm with the facility.
2. Foam lining:
The foam lining in the helmet is made from a material called expanded polystyrene (EPS), which is not biodegradable. Therefore, it’s essential to recycle it properly. Most recycling facilities may not accept helmet liners because EPS is a type of thermoplastic, that is difficult to recycle. However, some specialized facilities can process it without issue. Always make sure to call ahead before dropping off the liner.
3. Visor:
Visors are typically made of polycarbonate plastic. Though some recycling facilities accept this type of plastic, not all facilities recycle it. In case your facility doesn’t accept polycarbonate plastic, the best way to recycle it is to cut it up into small pieces and dispose of it in your regular trash. It’s recommended to remove any stickers, fittings, or screws from the visor before recycling.
4. Chin strap:
The chin strap is typically made of nylon, and it’s recyclable with similar materials at a textile recycling facility. The first step is to completely remove it from the helmet and ensure it’s clean and free of grime and dirt. Textile recycling facilities typically sort through donated items, so deliver the separated chinstrap or bag along with other textile-based items.
5. Hardware:
Most of our helmets come with small metal screws, fittings, and buckles, which are typically made of metal, and they can be recycled at your local recycling center. Before recycling, dismantle any hardware from the helmet and ensure you separate the ferrous and non-ferrous metals. This makes it easier to recycle them.
Helmet Safety Standards
Before disposing of your helmet, remember that it has an expiry date. Most helmets have a lifespan of five years from the date of manufacture, regardless of how often they are worn. After this period, the helmet may not provide enough protection in case of an accident.
It’s also essential to know and understand helmet safety standards. Helmets should have a certification sticker or label from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), Department of Transportation (DOT), or Snell Memorial Foundation. These organizations test and certify helmets to ensure they meet safety standards.
Don’t Do These Things With Your Old Motorcycle Helmets!
Not only understanding how to dispose of old motorcycle helmets safely is crucial, but it’s also essential to know what not to do with them. Here are some things you should never do:
1. Not To Burn Old Helmets!
One of the worst things you can do with your old helmet is to burn it. Burning your helmet not only creates toxic fumes that are harmful to the environment, but it can also compromise the structural integrity of the helmet. This means that if you ever get into an accident with a compromised helmet, it won’t provide the necessary protection needed to protect your head.
2. Not To Toss It In With Regular Trash!
Throwing your old helmet into regular trash bins may seem like the easiest way to get rid of it, but it is not the best. This is because helmets take up a lot of space in landfills, and they can take a long time to decompose. Instead, you should check with your local waste management or recycling center to find out if they have a specific way of recycling helmets. Some organizations may even accept helmets for donation to help those in need.
3. Not To Sell Expired Helmets!
Selling your old or expired helmet, especially to someone who is unaware of its expiry date or damage, is extremely unsafe and unethical. The helmet may look okay on the outside, but internal damages may have occurred that affect its protective capabilities. It’s better to dispose of an expired helmet through proper channels, which include talking to a disposal professional, recycling center, or even your local police department.
4. Don’t Bother Rebuilding Or Fixing Up Your Old Helmet
Some people may think that rebuilding or refurbishing their old helmet is a good idea, but it’s not. It’s essential to note that helmets are designed to provide protection for a specific period, after which they become less effective. Rebuilding an old helmet will not restore it to its original safety standard and can be dangerous in the long run. Instead, put your money into investing in a new and reliable helmet that you can trust.
With these recycling tips and safety standards in mind, you can now properly dispose of your old motorcycle helmet while also being environmentally conscious. Always remember to do your research and consult with professionals before disposing of any items that may have an impact on the environment and/or people’s safety.
Conclusion
As a responsible rider, it’s important to know how to dispose of old motorcycle helmets responsibly. There are several ways to do this, from recycling to upcycling to donating, and even trade-in programs. It’s crucial to avoid throwing them away in the trash, as this can cause harm to the environment. So, next time you need to dispose of your old motorcycle helmet, consider these options to help keep our planet clean and healthy.