Top Tips for Artificial Grass Maintenance

Landscaper installing artificial turf.

One of the biggest benefits of artificial grass is its low care requirements. If you’ve replaced your grass with artificial turf, you don’t have to worry about mowing, fertilizing, aerating, and all those other annoying lawn chores. That said, low care isn’t the same as no care. To keep your turf looking its best, you do need to perform regular artificial grass maintenance.

The good news is that synthetic turf maintenance isn’t nearly as labor-intensive as normal lawn care. Following a few simple steps will help you preserve your artificial turf and keep it looking great.

Why Artificial Grass Maintenance Is Important

Residential lawn with artificial turf.

Though today’s synthetic grass is extremely durable, it isn’t invincible. It’s still susceptible to general wear and tear, dirt, and stains.

With living grass, you can often mow away issues. That won’t work for turf. If you drop a glass of wine on your turf, for example, that stain will linger unless you take action.

The best way to care for artificial grass is to perform regular synthetic turf maintenance. Ongoing care will:

  • Preserve the beauty of your lawn
  • Protect the lifespan of your turf
  • Maintain the value of your home and property

The Tools You Need for Synthetic Turf Maintenance

Rake in leaves on artificial grass.

Want to know how to care for artificial turf? That starts with keeping the right tools on hand. Fortunately, most of these tools are low in cost and won’t take up too much room in your shed or garage.

  • A hose with a spray nozzle
  • Power washer (optional)
  • Rake with plastic bristles
  • Leaf blower (optional)
  • Broom
  • Gentle cleaner
  • Pre-emergent weed killer
  • Turf-specific stain cleaner (optional)

Tips for Artificial Grass Maintenance

Keep your fake lawn looking clean, green, and gorgeous with minimal effort.

1. Clean up Debris

Leaves on artificial turf.

Tree branches, leaves, and other debris will accumulate just as regularly on your artificial lawn as on an organic lawn. Pick up larger items and use a blower, broom, or rake to get rid of leaves and smaller ones.

2. Rinse Your Lawn Regularly

Over time, dust, pollen, and dirt will collect on your artificial turf, especially if you live in a drier region of the country without regular rainfall. This coating can make your lawn look faded and dirty. To keep your lawn looking great, use a hose with a spray nozzle or a power washer and give your lawn a good rinse as needed.

3. Brush Your Lawn

Landscaper brushing artificial turf.

Even though turf is designed to be durable, it can get flattened in high-traffic areas. When you notice matted areas of your lawn, use a brush or broom to pull the fibers back into a standing position. As a bonus, brushing your lawn will also help redistribute the sand infill.

4. Take Care of Pet Waste

Your dog has to go, but pet waste can stain and stink up artificial grass. First, if possible, choose a pet-resistant artificial turf for your lawn. Next, pick up solid waste as soon as possible and then spray down the area with your hose. Washing the area will help prevent stains and will help dilute unpleasant odors.

5. Treat Stains Immediately

Stains happen. Maybe a neighbor drops a chicken thigh at your summer barbecue, or your child spills their juice cup. As soon as you notice a stain, take action. Sop up any liquids. Next, rinse the area in water and then scrub it with a mild detergent. For tougher stains, try a 3% solution of ammonia in water. You can also pick up a turf-grass-specific stain remover from most home improvement and lawn care stores.

6. Control Weeds

Weed growing through artificial grass.

Artificial lawns are inherently resistant to weeds, which can’t usually thrive without soil and nutrients. Still, it’s not uncommon for a few pesky weeds to poke their heads through artificial turf every once in a while. Act promptly. Pull out any weeds that you see, making sure to remove all the roots. If weeds continue to be a problem, spray your lawn with pre-emergent weed control each month to prevent weeds from sprouting in the first place.

7. Replace Damaged Patches

Landscaper installing new rolls of artificial grass.

Even the toughest artificial turf can wear out over time, especially in your highest-traffic areas. Worn and bare patches of lawn look bad, so check your warranty to see if your original artificial turf company will repair it. If the warranty has lapsed, contact a local lawn care company with artificial turf experience to replace those sections.

Have the Best Lawn on the Block

By performing artificial grass maintenance, you can have the most beautiful lawn in the neighborhood. Unlike your neighbor’s organic lawn, your artificial grass will never turn brown, become bare, or succumb to lawn disease.

We hope our information on how to maintain artificial grass was useful. However, if you find you don’t have the time or physical ability to perform ongoing synthetic turf maintenance, consider hiring a lawn care team like The Grounds Guys®.

Our local teams are happy to perform artificial turf services for homes in your area. We also provide artificial turf services for commercial areas. Our teams are reliable, knowledgeable, and friendly. That’s our Neighborly Done Right Promise™ to you.

Ready to enjoy the benefits of artificial grass maintenance? Find your local The Grounds Guys and request a free estimate today.