Last Updated on January, 2025
Given the ease of maintaining synthetic grass these days, it is not surprising that the vast majority of homeowners switch from a natural grass lawn to artificial turf.
Unlike real grass, synthetic turf lawns are known for being extremely low-maintenance. They do not require mowing, trimming, fertilizers, or harsh chemicals and are generally attractive and immaculate all year round.
However, that does not mean artificial grass does not come with unique care and maintenance requirements.
In this article, we’ll discuss how to maintain artificial grass, artificial grass maintenance tips for pet owners, tools and equipment you’ll need for care and maintenance, and so much more!
Let’s get started.
Quick Summary
- Artificial grass requires low maintenance but needs regular brushing, periodic rinsing, weed control, and prompt stain removal to keep it looking clean and fresh.
- Pet waste is easy to clean, but it’s essential to rinse pet urine promptly to avoid odors and stains on artificial turf.
- While most maintenance can be done at home, tough stains like motor oil may require a professional cleaning to prevent damage and extend the life of the turf.
How Do I Maintain My Artificial Lawn?
Artificial turf maintenance is a walk in the park compared to natural grass maintenance requirements.
Here’s how to go about it in some quick and easy steps:
Brush Artificial Turf Regularly
Infill is used on a synthetic lawn to keep the weight of your turf in place and to make the artificial grass blades resemble natural grass.
However, regular foot traffic can flatten the synthetic grass blades down and distribute the infill unevenly across your synthetic turf, making it look flat and unpleasant.
Cross-brushing your artificial grass lawn regularly, especially around high-traffic patches, every month or so can lift the blades, redistribute the infill properly, clear debris, and prevent matting.
You can use a stiff brush with steel bristles or a rake to fluff up your artificial grass blades, and a leaf blower to blow away any fallen leaves and remove dust and dirt that may have settled on your artificial grass.
Weed Control
You would think that weed growth is impossible on an artificial lawn, but these pesky annoyances can still grow on artificial grass lawns.
However, the good news is that artificial turf comes with a film backing that prevents the mass growth of weeds. You can either pull out the ones you see on sight or use a water-based weed killer to make sure they don’t spread.
Clean Stains Promptly
Dealing with stains is part of the package, especially if kids run around and play on your artificial turf lawn. While you don’t have to deal with grass stains on clothes, you cannot avoid stains that may appear on your artificial turf.
Whether it is food spills, chewing gum or tree sap stains from overhanging trees, or blood from a skinned knee, removing stains as soon as possible is vital to prevent them from setting in and potentially damaging your synthetic turf.
Fortunately, most stains are easy to clean with a mild soap and water mixture and rinsing the area with plain water. You may need mineral spirits or kitty litter to blot and scrub up a particularly stubborn stain.
A sticky substance may require dry ice or aerosol refrigerants to freeze the stain before you can scrape it off.
Rinse Your Synthetic Turf Periodically
While artificial grass doesn’t need water like natural grass, it still needs to be cleaned with water to prevent dust and grime from settling on the turf.
All you have to do is gently spray your synthetic turf lawn weekly with your garden hose to remove grime, stains, and debris, helping it smell fresh and remain odor-free.
Address Small Rips and Tears
High-quality artificial grass is usually resistant to wear and tear. However, sometimes, you may notice the seams coming apart, especially around high-traffic areas.
It is crucial to address this issue promptly to prevent further damage to your turf. If you have the tools and know-how, you can repair the damage yourself or call in the professionals to do it for you.
Also read:
Artificial Grass Maintenance Tips for Pet Owners
Having a pet and an artificial lawn is not necessarily a recipe for disaster. In fact, cleaning up after your pet is much easier to do on synthetic grass.
Here are a few tips:
Pet Waste: Solid pet waste on your turf is an easy fix. Once your pet has finished with its business, wait for the waste to dry to prevent it from smearing on your lawn. You can remove the solid waste and rinse the area with water.
Pet Urine: Rinse the area with a hose as soon as possible to let the pet urine drain quickly. You don’t want it to settle into the turf and leave behind a foul stench.
Tools You Need for Artificial Turf Maintenance
The equipment you need for routine turf maintenance is relatively easy to procure. Usually, you would have them lying around your house:
- Leaf blower.
- Rake.
- Stiff brush.
- Hose or power washer.
- Gentle cleaner and sponge.
- Weed killer.
Should I Call a Professional?
Stubborn stains that result from spillages, like motor oil or suntan oil, can be challenging to remove from your artificial grass. In that case, calling a professional for a deep clean may be best.
Professional artificial grass cleaners have the right tools and experience to carry out routine maintenance and properly care for your synthetic lawn. They ensure your turf is left clean and as good as new, making it a worthy investment.
FAQs
Conclusion
Synthetic grass is a low-maintenance option, and you are now equipped with the right care tips.
However, keep in mind that the care you give to your artificial lawn must be done correctly to ensure your turf lasts for years.
