How long do helmets last?

[Celtic Dragon]

I think I know the answer to this question already but I'll ask it.

My current one is 5 years old and in perfect condition except for being dusty though lack of use! Never been dropped and stored out of direct sunlight and away from heat sources.

Its only just occured to me that it might be U/S after this amount of shelf time. Its been there since my GT got nicked and it was 'oh I have one of them' when out buying the bike.

[Steve vRS]

Mine is 10 years old and should be replaced. A memorable quote from here was, "Helmets should be replaced when you can smell them from the next room."

Steve

[Watchman]

Given that the environmentalists claim polystyrene will last longer than the earth, you really haven't anything to worry about.

[Gizmoish]

Supposed to be changed every 4-5 years if used regularly, but if it's been kept safe I don't see any reason.

I do want a Kask Mojito though, it'd match my bike.

[Vladimir]

My Spesh 2d seemed okay at five years old. Stuck it in my bag, two rather critical struts snapped. The plastic had gone completely brittle. So will now change more often.

Replaced it with a matte black Giro Atmos which is the nearest I've seen to a good looking lid. My 2d looked like a giant silver mushroom.