Some bike manufacturers recommend replacing a helmet every three years. That begs the question: ‘What to do with old bicycle helmets?’
If you’ve just bought a new helmet, you can still find a use for your older one. Read this article to find out how you can use your older helmets!
Can You Recycle a Bike Helmet?
Recycling is a great sustainable way to care for our planet, but it’s a bit more complicated when it comes to bike helmets. A bike helmet is made up of different recyclable parts.
These include plastic for the exterior shell, foam for the interior padding, and sometimes even metal for the buckles. Each of these materials has its own recycling requirements.
Unfortunately, recycling these parts is not that easy. The foam part of the helmet, often made from expanded polystyrene (EPS), isn’t usually accepted in curbside recycling programs. The same goes for the plastic shell, as it often contains various additives that recycling centers need to sort out.
Some specialized recycling programs might take your old bike helmet and give it new life. These programs have the right tools to break down the helmet into its separate materials. Then, they can recycle each part properly. For example, the foam can be used for insulation materials, and the plastic might be turned into new plastic products.
Before you throw out your helmet, it’s a smart move to check with your local recycling center or a bike shop. They can tell you if there’s a take-back program or a special drop-off point for bike helmets.
Donating Old Helmets for a Good Cause
Another option for your old bike helmets is to donate them. Many local fire departments welcome the donation of used helmets for their training exercises. It’s a great way to give your used helmet a second life while also supporting the brave individuals who keep us safe.
Before you donate, take a moment to inspect the helmet closely. Check for any cracks or damage that might compromise its ability to provide protection. If it’s still in decent condition, it’s ready for donation. The goal is to ensure safety, even during practice scenarios. A well-maintained helmet can help a firefighter train effectively, without risking injury.
If you’re unsure about the condition of your helmet, consider asking a professional for their opinion. Local bike shops can often assess if a helmet is suitable for further use. They know exactly what to look for and can guide you on whether it’s best to donate or recycle your helmet.
Once you’ve confirmed that your helmet is fit for donation, reach out to your nearest fire station. Give them a call or drop by to ask if they’re currently accepting used helmets for training purposes. They’ll be grateful for your contribution and you’ll have the satisfaction of knowing that your old helmet is still being useful and making an impact.
Get Crafty and Upcycle Your Bicycle Helmets
Feeling creative? Your old helmet can become a cool new project, serving a purpose beyond what it was originally meant for. Instead of disposing of it
Transform into a Garden Planter
First, clean your helmet thoroughly. Next, drill a few holes in the bottom for drainage. Now, pick some small plants or herbs you love. Fill the helmet with soil, plant your greenery, and voila! You’ve got a quirky addition to your garden! You can hang it by the straps and grow flowers out of it.
Create a Catch-All Bowl
Alternatively, out of commission helmets make great catch-all bowls for your home. Simply place it on a table or shelf with the open side up. You can toss in your keys, spare change, or even jewelry. It’s a fun way to keep things organized and within reach.
You can also keep the helmet in the garage or shed as a holder for small to medium sized tools, measuring tapes and scissors.
It can also be used as a bowl for fruit and/or vegetables.
More Upcycling Ideas
With upcycling, the possibilities are endless. You can paint the helmet in vibrant colors, add stickers, or attach it to a wall as a decorative shelf. The idea is to reuse and repurpose in a way that adds a personal touch to your space.
Conclusion: Old Helmets Can Be Useful
So, whether you’re disposing of your bicycle and all it’s accessories or simply getting a new helmet, there are plenty of options to pursue.
As we’ve seen, old bike helmets can still serve a valuable purpose beyond their expiry date. Instead of chucking them in the bin and adding to the waste of a landfill, they can be used. Reusing helmets can be a fun DIY activity and it can also have environmental benefits.
Additionally, donating helmets is also a good idea, as they can be put to good use. However, it is important to follow safety standards and ensure the helmet isn’t too affected by wear and tear.
