Caring for youth football helmets and pads

Why gear care matters

Football equipment is designed to help protect players, but it can only do its job when it is the right size, in good shape and worn correctly. Parents often ask how to tell. This guide covers general habits. It is not a substitute for the manufacturer's instructions or your league's rules, so check both.

No gear can eliminate risk. Pair good equipment with good coaching, as described in our injury prevention basics, and ask a doctor about any health question.

Who should fit the gear

Whenever possible, have a trained person fit the helmet and pads. Many leagues have an equipment manager or coach who does this on fitting day. Do not guess, and do not rely on sizing for another sport. If you buy gear yourself, ask your league what it requires, because many leagues have specific standards or inspect gear before play.

If your league provides equipment, ask about the process for reporting problems. If you are shopping, our equipment checklist lists what a new player needs.

General fit checks

• The helmet should sit snugly without shifting when your child moves their head.
• The chin strap should be fastened and snug, according to the instructions.
• The facemask and any visor should be secure and undamaged.
• Pads should cover the areas they are meant to protect, without sliding around.
• Gear should not restrict breathing or normal movement.
• Growth spurts can change fit, so recheck during the season.

If anything feels painful, loose or tight, tell a coach or equipment manager. Do not cut, bend or modify protective gear.

A quick check before each practice

1. Look at the helmet shell for cracks, deep dents or damage.
2. Check that the straps, buckles and snaps all work.
3. Check the pads for tears, broken parts or missing pieces.
4. Confirm the mouthguard is in good condition, if your league requires one.
5. Make sure your child wears everything the right way, every time.

Make it a team habit. Kids can learn to do a quick check themselves, which builds responsibility.

Cleaning and drying

Gear gets sweaty and smelly. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for cleaning, since some products can damage materials. In general:

• Wipe surfaces with a damp cloth and mild soap after use, if the instructions allow.
• Let gear air dry fully before packing it away.
• Wash uniforms, socks and undergarments after every use.
• Rinse the mouthguard and store it in a ventilated case.
• Do not use harsh chemicals or paint on a helmet, which may affect it. Ask before adding stickers or decals.

Clean gear also reduces skin irritation. If your child has a rash or skin problem, talk to a doctor.

Storage and transport

Store equipment in a cool, dry, ventilated place. Avoid leaving a helmet in a hot car, which may affect materials, and avoid damp bags where mold can grow. Carry the helmet in a way that protects the facemask. Some players use a mesh bag so air can circulate. Label every piece with your child's name.

When to ask about replacement

Ask the league or equipment manager about replacement when gear is cracked, missing parts, no longer fits or has been through heavy impact. Helmets in particular have manufacturer guidelines and often have a certification or recertification process. Rules and recommendations vary, so check the manufacturer and your league. If you are buying used gear, ask the league whether it is allowed and have a trained person inspect it first.

Common mistakes

• Assuming last year's gear still fits.
• Wearing gear loosely or incorrectly because it feels more comfortable.
• Leaving gear in the car or in a closed bag after a wet game.
• Skipping the pre-practice check.
• Modifying equipment, which may reduce its protection.

For more on getting ready, read how to prepare for football season.

A simple weekly routine

A short routine makes gear care easy to keep up. After practice or a game, take everything out of the bag so it can dry. Wipe down the helmet and pads according to the instructions, hang or lay out the pads, and put the mouthguard in its case once it is dry. Before the next practice, do the quick check above and pack the bag. A few minutes each week is far easier than dealing with a smelly, damaged bag at the end of the season.

Warning signs to take seriously

• A helmet that feels loose, shifts on the head or leaves painful pressure points.
• Cracks, deep gouges or loose hardware on the shell or facemask.
• Padding that has flattened, torn or come out of its pockets.
• Straps or snaps that no longer hold.
• A child who complains that gear is uncomfortable or hard to breathe in.

When you notice any of these, stop using the item and ask the league or equipment manager. Do not try to repair protective equipment yourself.

After a hard hit

Gear can be damaged by a big impact even if it looks fine. More importantly, the player may be hurt. If your child takes a hard hit, or seems dazed or unwell, tell a coach right away and ask a doctor or athletic trainer before the player returns. For general safety habits, see football injury prevention for parents.

End-of-season care

At the end of the season, clean everything, let it dry completely and return league-owned equipment on time. If you own the gear, store it in a cool, dry, ventilated place and plan to have it checked for fit and condition before the next season. Children grow, so do not assume it will still fit. Many families use a short list from the equipment checklist to plan what needs replacing.

Sources and further reading

1. Fitting your child's helmet - Parental Pep Talk USA Football
2. What parents need to know about football helmets USA Football
3. Football Helmet Standards Overview NOCSAE
4. NOCSAE Youth Football Helmet Standard NOCSAE

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Frequently asked questions

How should a youth football helmet fit?

It should sit snugly, not shift when your child moves their head and have the chin strap fastened. Ask a trained person to check fit.

How do I clean football pads and a helmet?

Follow the manufacturer's instructions. In general, wipe with a damp cloth and mild soap, then air dry fully.

When should football gear be replaced?

Ask your league or equipment manager when gear is cracked, damaged or no longer fits. Manufacturer guidelines also apply.

Can I buy used football equipment?

Some leagues allow it, others do not. Check the rules and have a trained person inspect used gear.

Should I add stickers or paint to a helmet?

Ask the league and manufacturer first, because some products can affect the helmet.