M56/76 with crumbling foam pads

[Apache8]

Hello there,

I recently picked up an east German M56/76 but unfortunately both the front and rear foam pads are mostly dried out and crumbling. According to the world war helmets site it appears to be the earlier latex type foam.
World War Helmets - Casque Modele 56/66

After digging around on google the only advice I could find on this topic was regarding mattresses and upholstery and suggested using a steamer. I wasn't sure that would be a good idea to try on a 50 year old helmet, so hence I bring my question here. Are there any ways that people know of to try and revive the foam or prevent it from decaying further, or is this something like the British crown pads were its destruction is somewhat inevitable and should I just try and replace it? Other than the foam pads the rest of the helmet is in good condition.

Any suggestions are greatly appreciated.

Apache8