The Low Maintenance Advantage: Debunking Common Myths About Cleaning Artificial Grass

Synthetic Turf Treasure Coast • December 21, 2023

Industry experts say the residential artificial grass market is booming, and no wonder. Artificial grass gives you a green lawn all year round in any weather conditions. Even with slightly slower growth due to COVID-19 and supply chain disruptions, the artificial turf market is expected to rise nearly 9% every year through 2027. (1)

 

This can be attributed to the increase in demand for artificial grass due to its low maintenance advantage.

However, there are many myths about cleaning and maintaining artificial grass. Today, we debunk all these myths and show you the low-maintenance advantage of artificial turf. Read on.

Artificial Grass Does Not Need Cleaning

Some people think that artificial grass does not need cleaning. However, that is incorrect. Artificial grass should be cleaned regularly to remove dust, debris, and other wastes that might have built up on it. So, when you install artificial backyard turf, you should have a cleaning routine to ensure it remains spotless and lasts longer.

Raking is Not Necessary

One of the common myths about cleaning artificial turf is that raking is not necessary when it comes to cleaning and maintaining it. However, that information is untrue. Raking your artificial grass is one of the simplest ways to get rid of leaves, twigs, and other debris on the turf. Best artificial turf installers near me recommend the use of plastic rakes to ensure the smooth removal of debris without damaging the turf.

Raking should be done once a week to ensure leaves and other organic waste don't build up and start decomposing on the turf. However, during the summer and autumn, you can rake at least twice a week, depending on the leaves shed by the trees near the artificial lawn.

turf installer

Cleaning Artificial Turf with Water and Soap is Too Much Work

Artificial Grass Has Poor Drainage Making Cleaning It with Water Challenging

There is another myth claiming that artificial grass has poor drainage, and as a result, cleaning it with water is more challenging. However, that is not true. Well-installed artificial turf has proper drainage properties and sometimes can drain water more quickly than natural grass. You should hire an experienced turf installer to ensure the grass is installed correctly, ensuring proper drainage even when cleaning it with a hose.

Cleaning Artificial Turf with Detergent Makes It Fade

It is a myth that when you clean artificial grass with a detergent it will fade. The truth is that when you use detergent specially made for cleaning artificial grass, your artificial lawn will remain looking new for the longest time. You should use safe cleaning products and rinse the grass thoroughly to ensure all the soap is washed off.

Select Turf and Infill Based on the Anticipated Use

It is just a myth that you must hire specialists to clean your artificial grass. The fact is that you don't need to hire anybody to clean your artificial turf. You can easily clean it using homemade cleaning solutions and water. You will also need a brush and hose. However, if you notice that your artificial backyard turf is too dirty, you can hire an experienced turf maintenance company to clean it for you.

Once Stains Get Dry, They Cannot Be Removed

Some people say that red wine, coffee, dog pee, and poop stains once dried cannot be removed from your artificial turf. However, this information is not backed by science or any research. Experienced turf maintenance experts say that even tough stains can removed from artificial turf. One just needs to use the right cleaning products and the stains will be easily removed, leaving the fake grass looking spotless.

Cleaning Artificial Grass Requires a Lot of Water

Most property owners think that cleaning artificial turf requires a lot of water. But is this true? Not really. Although cleaning artificial grass needs water, it doesn't require as much water as that is needed to water natural grass during the dry months. So, with artificial grass, you'll save a lot of water as only a little of it is used to rinse the grass.

Raking and Cleaning Artificial Grass Regularly Makes it Wear Out More Quickly

There is no conclusive evidence showing that raking & cleaning artificial grass makes it wear out more quickly. However, research has shown that raking and regular cleaning of artificial turf keeps it looking new and can extend its lifespan.

Raking helps remove leaves and other debris that collect on top of the turf before they start decomposing. In addition, cleaning your turf with water gets rid of dust, dirt, and other contaminants that build up on it. Once all these substances are removed from your artificial lawn, it will last longer, looking natural and smelling fresh.

Bad Odors Don't Go Away After Cleaning

Some people think that once a bad odor develops on an artificial turf, it won't go away even after cleaning. The good news is that odors can easily be removed by cleaning products and homemade solutions. Therefore, if you notice that your artificial lawn has bad odors, use the right detergent to clean it thoroughly to get rid of the awful smell. Alternatively, you can use a vinegar solution to get rid of bad odors on your artificial grass.


However, if a bad smell persists, you can hire an artificial turf installer and maintenance company to thoroughly clean it and remove the awful smell. They'll use the right cleaning products, leaving your turf smelling fresh.


About the author

Kathy Leavell

Kathy Leavell is the founder and owner of Synthetic Turf Treasure Coast, a leading provider of synthetic grass solutions for residential and commercial properties in Florida. With over a decade of experience in the industry, Kathy has become a recognized expert in synthetic turf installation, maintenance, and repair. Under her leadership, Synthetic Turf Treasure Coast has earned a reputation for exceptional customer service and high-quality workmanship.


Prior to starting her own business, Kathy worked in sales and marketing roles at several major synthetic turf manufacturers.

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