How to clean artificial grass: complete guide with practical tips and tricks

Did you know that keeping your artificial turf clean and in good condition not only improves its appearance, but also extends its lifespan?

Unlike natural grass, synthetic grass does not need watering or mowing, but it does need some pampering to keep it looking perfect.

But how do you clean artificial turf? In this Turfgrass guide we tell you everything you need to know to keep it spotless, with easy tips and tricks that really work.

Are you interested? Keep learning!

Learn how to clean artificial turf in 6 easy steps

If you are looking for how to clean artificial turf, this is the easiest way to do it.

Memorise these 6 steps to clean your artificial turf in the shortest possible time:

• 1. Remove leaves and debris with broom or hoover.
• 2. Wash the surface with water and neutral soap.
• 3. Gently scrub with a brush if there is embedded dirt.
• 4. Rinse with a hose.
• 5. Leave to air dry.
• 6. Optional: apply a specific disinfectant to eliminate odours.

Why is it important to clean and maintain artificial turf?

For artificial turf, regular maintenance or cleaning improves aesthetics, prevents dust accumulation and prevents odours and bacteria, especially in areas of frequent use or where pets are present.

It also extends the life of the product and keeps the fibres in good condition.

How to remove stains from artificial turf

Stains are inevitable: an outdoor meal, a playful pet or an afternoon of arts and crafts can leave their mark.

If you are wondering how to clean artificial turf, don't worry, most stains can be solved if you act in time.

Here are some examples:

• Food and drink: mix warm water with a little neutral soap, rub gently with a brush and rinse well.
• Pets: Remove urine or other debris with paper or spatula and clean with soapy water. A mild disinfectant (non-chlorine) may be useful when cleaning artificial turf for pets.
• Chewing gum or resin: apply ice to harden and remove carefully using a plastic spatula.
• Paint or oil: act quickly, without rubbing. Use an absorbent cloth and a mild degreaser compatible with artificial turf.

"When cleaning artificial turf, always try to avoid using chlorine, bleach or ammonia, as these can damage the fibres and affect the colour." Turfgrass technical team of artificial turf installers.

Smells? Learn how to disinfect your artificial turf

Disinfecting artificial turf is not the same as cleaning it. Disinfection goes a step further and removes bacteria and odours.

How to disinfect your artificial turf? Use soapy water, diluted vinegar or specific products for artificial turf. Bleach should only be used very diluted and only occasionally to avoid damaging the fibres.

Recommended tools for cleaning artificial turf

• Hard bristle brush vs. electric rotary brush: While there is no one best brush for artificial turf and its cleaning, the hard bristle brush is ideal for small areas or quick clean-ups, and the electric brush is an excellent choice for large areas or when you need to lift the fibres deeper.
• Hose with adjustable sprayer: useful both for rinsing after applying cleaners and for cooling the lawn on hot days. Make sure the spray is not too strong to avoid moving the sand or infill base.
• Garden hoover: makes it easy to collect leaves, dust and small debris, which is especially useful in large gardens and during autumn.
• Blowers: with these you can quickly remove leaves, dust and light debris from the surface of the lawn without sweeping.

Preventive maintenance to extend the life of artificial grass

A little preventive maintenance can save you a lot of work in the future. Here are a few tips:

• Prevents compaction and wear of the turf.
• Brush regularly against the direction of traffic to give volume.
• Add a little silica sand (if your model allows it) to keep its shape.
• If you are installing artificial turf on soil, the geotextile weed netting is not optional: it is a must.
• It is advisable to apply preventive herbicide around the perimeter once or twice a year, especially in areas where vegetation is most likely to appear.