Wondering how to clean artificial turf and keep it looking fresh year-round? This quick guide covers everything you need for a low-maintenance, pet-friendly lawn!
If you’ve been following our home renovation journey, you know we went through a lot—a full home addition, kitchen remodel, foundation leveling, and more. While the inside of our house looks amazing (finally!), our poor backyard took a real beating. Between heavy equipment, random debris, and the never-ending mess, we knew something had to change.
That’s when we decided to say goodbye to mud and mayhem and hello to low maintenance artificial turf! We installed Select Surfaces Evergreen Artificial Grass Roll from Sam’s Club, and y’all—it was a game-changer. With a toddler (hi, Theo!), a dog (our boy Barkley), and a love for colorful outdoor living, switching to synthetic turf was the best decision ever.
But just like anything in your home, artificial grass maintenance is key to keeping your yard in top condition. I did a lot of researching before and after installing! If you’re wondering how to clean artificial turf—especially if you’ve got pets, kids, or a busy schedule—I’ve got you covered with this step-by-step guide that makes it easy.
Why Choose Artificial Grass?
First off, let’s talk about the “why.” Installing fake grass isn’t just about aesthetics (though it does look like a perfectly manicured lawn year-round). It’s also:
- Low maintenance – No mowing, no fertilizing, no watering.
- Kid and pet-friendly – Especially if you choose pet turf varieties designed for durability and proper drainage.
- Cost-effective long term – You save on water and upkeep.
- Perfect for small yards or outdoor areas that get heavy use.
Whether you’ve got a small patio, a large yard, or anything in between, synthetic grass is a great solution for creating a clean, green space all year round.
But like any good thing, it needs a little TLC to keep it looking (and smelling) fresh. So let’s talk about the cleaning process!
How Often Should You Clean Artificial Turf?
The short answer? On a regular basis! A weekly cleaning routine is ideal, especially if you’ve got kids or furry friends doing zoomies outside.
That said, the frequency depends on use:
- Light use: Clean every 2–4 weeks.
- Heavy use/pets: Aim for weekly upkeep.
- After storms or during dusty seasons: Spot-clean as needed.
Regular cleaning ensures your synthetic lawn stays vibrant, odor-free, and in good shape for the long haul.
First Step: Gather Your Cleaning Tools
Here’s what you’ll need to clean your artificial grass lawn effectively:
- Plastic rake or turf rake (a flexible lawn rake is a good option)
- Leaf blower or vacuum cleaner (for large debris or pet hair)
- Garden hose with a spray nozzle
- Mild soap or mild detergent
- Stiff brush with stiff bristles
- Spray bottle for spot cleaning
- Plastic bag (for solid waste)
- Commercial turf cleaner (optional for tough stains or pet odors)
- Power broom (for larger areas or restoring grass blades)
You don’t need everything on this list, but it’s good to have a few basics handy to tackle whatever mess comes your way.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Clean Artificial Grass
1. Remove Debris and Pet Waste
Start by clearing off large debris like leaves, twigs, or dog toys. A leaf blower or plastic rake can make this job a breeze.
Pet owners, listen up! If there’s dog poop or other solid waste, use a plastic bag to pick it up—just like you would on a walk. Then give the affected area a quick light rinse with the garden hose to avoid pet odors or staining.
2. Rinse with Water
On a regular basis, especially in warmer months, spray your entire surface down with a garden hose. This helps remove dust, pollen, pet urine, and other residue.
A low-pressure washer can also be used if you’re dealing with dusty areas or larger areas, but be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions to avoid potential damage to the turf blades.
Pro Tip: Always rinse in the opposite direction of the grass fibers to help fluff them back up!
3. Spot Clean Stains
Accidents happen—especially with kids and pets. Whether it’s ice cream, dog’s urine, or beverages, the best way to handle it is to act fast.
Here’s how:
- Mix warm water with a few drops of mild soap or mild detergent.
- Spray the affected area using a spray bottle.
- Use a stiff brush in a circular motion to scrub the spot.
- Rinse thoroughly with clean water.
If you’re dealing with tough stains like motor oil, tree sap, or sticky residue, try mineral spirits—but always do a spot test first to avoid damaging your fake turf.
4. Tackle Pet Odors
Pet urine can build up over time and cause some serious funk if not addressed. Even with proper drainage, lingering smells may need extra attention.
To clean pet turf and remove pet odors:
- Rinse the area with a garden hose.
- Mix a cleaning solution of vinegar and warm water (1:1 ratio).
- Spray generously and let it sit for 5–10 minutes.
- Rinse again and let dry in the sun.
Alternatively, a commercial turf cleaner specifically made for artificial grass cleaning can go a long way in maintaining freshness.
5. Brush the Grass Blades
After cleaning, use a turf rake, stiff brush, or power broom to fluff the grass blades and restore that more natural look.
Brush in the opposite direction of how the blades lay, and always in an upright position to avoid matting.
Bonus Tips for Best Results
Let’s round things out with some the best practices to keep your synthetic turf looking fab:
- Avoid harsh chemicals – They can break down the grass fibers and cause fading.
- Don’t use bleach or ammonia – These can ruin the turf and harm your pets.
- Make sure your yard has proper drainage to prevent puddles or mildew.
- Rinse off any cleaning products after use.
- Keep heavy furniture off the same spot to avoid matting the turf blades long term.
- For artificial grass cleaning after heavy use (like a party or playdate), a pressure washer set to low water pressure can help clean the entire surface quickly.
What About Snow, Ice, or Seasonal Changes?
If you live in an area with snow or ice, don’t worry—synthetic grass can handle it! Just avoid using metal shovels, which can damage the turf blades. Instead, use a plastic rake or broom to gently push snow off the surface.
Let any remaining ice melt naturally, and once it’s gone, give your artificial lawn a good rinse and brush to bring it back to life.
Final Thoughts: Is Artificial Turf Right for You?
If you’re tired of muddy footprints, brown patches, or spending your weekends on yard work, synthetic lawn might be the answer. It was for us!
Our artificial grass lawn has totally transformed our outdoor area. It’s now a clean, green, pet-friendly oasis that Theo and Barkley both adore. And I can’t tell you how amazing it feels to just hose it down and call it a day—no mower required.
The cleaning process is straightforward, and with regular maintenance, your turf will stay fresh, clean, and comfy for a long time.
So whether you’re dealing with dog poop, dog’s urine, or just your everyday sticky residue from toddler adventures (hello, crushed goldfish crackers), a few simple steps go a long way in keeping your fake grass fabulous.
Let’s Recap the Essentials:
- Weekly cleaning keeps turf fresh and odor-free.
- Rinse regularly to prevent buildup.
- Use mild soap, stiff brushes, and spray bottles for spot cleaning.
- Avoid harsh chemicals or anything not recommended by your turf’s manufacturer.
- Fluff your turf with a plastic rake or power broom for that just-installed look.
Got any other questions about turf care or home projects? Drop them in the comments! And if you’re on the fence about turf—trust me, it’s a good idea. Especially if your backyard has gone through a reno like ours!
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