Artificial turf is a great addition to any home or property. The vibrant green grass is durable, long-lasting, and saves a lot on the water bill. Just like organic grass needs to be maintained, whether it be mowing or picking up after your dog, artificial grass also requires maintenance, although of a different nature. The method of artificial grass maintenance depends on any given situation. Who is using the grass and for what use? Is it for a child’s play area, a dog’s comfortable outdoor lounge (and bathroom) or a simple golf putting green? These details all have to be taken into account when planning how to clean artificial turf.
In general, prevention and attention are keys to easy cleaning. If the artificial turf is only cleaned once every two months, it will require a lot more work and may affect the longevity and quality of the grass. Knowing how to clean artificial grass, both short-term and long-term, will ensure that your pet turf, patio, or putting green will look great for a very long time.
Especially during this time of the year, typical artificial grass maintenance will consist of clearing out any foliage or debris that have collected on the turf. The simple solution would be a leaf blower, broom, or a rake, and shouldn’t take more than about twenty minutes, depending on the square footage of the artificial turf. Be sure to always brush in one direction, as this will keep the blades upright, leaving the grass with that beautiful, natural look that everyone enjoys.
Over time, spills, dust, and small debris may collect on the grass, possibly sinking to the bottom and disappearing from sight. A careful washdown with your garden hose will both flush them out and give the grass a shiny, clean look. Make sure to thoroughly rinse the grass fibers but not to put too much pressure on them, as they blades could get damaged in the process. It is suggested that the artificial turf is rinsed down at least once a week for proper artificial grass maintenance.
For stubborn stains and spots, a more rigorous approach is needed and will require a bit more preparation when planning how to clean artificial grass. One option is to use a water-detergent mixture. Granular detergent is better to use than liquid, but both are still acceptable. Take a pint of the detergent and mix it with a teaspoon of water, then use a sponge, washcloth, or towel to scrub the stain until it comes out.
If the water-detergent mixture is ineffective, follow it up with a one-part-vinegar and one-part-water mixture. You could still use a rag, however, we recommend using a spray bottle for this specific cleaning cocktail. You can also purchase pre-made eliminators, such as TurFresh’s Artificial Turf Pet Odor Eliminator.
Again, instead of planning how to clean artificial turf, plan on how to maintain artificial turf. Not only will your grass look and smell great, but it will also last a long, long time. During rainier seasons, artificial grass maintenance will be needed less frequently. Otherwise, simple practices such as regular rinsing, raking, or brushing from a stiff-bristled broom once or twice a week will preserve the look and feel of your artificial grass.