Cleaning Your Turf: Home Remedies and Hacks

Artificial turf offers a low-maintenance alternative to natural grass, but it still requires some TLC to keep it looking its best. While regular brushing and hosing down can handle most everyday situations, professional cleaning may be necessary from time to time. Here are a few hacks on how to maintain your artificial turf, tackle common cleaning challenges, and when to call in the pros.

Routine Maintenance:

•   Brushing: Once a week, use a stiff-bristled broom to brush the turf in the opposite direction of the blades. This helps stand the turf upright, removing debris and preventing matting.

•   Leaf Blowing: Use a leaf blower to remove leaves, twigs, and other loose debris. Removing leaves also helps mitigate weed growth within the turf.

•   Hosing Down: Every few weeks, give your turf a good rinse with a garden hose. This removes dust and dirt buildup, as well as helps rinse any organic waste left behind from our fury friends. This is an important step for those of us that live in areas with minimal rainfall i.e. Metro Phoenix, Arizona.  

Tackling Specific Issues:

•   Stains: For light stains, mix equal parts warm water and white vinegar in a spray bottle. Apply the solution, scrub gently with a soft brush, and rinse thoroughly. For tougher stains, consult your turf manufacturer's recommendations or consider a professional cleaning service.

•   Pet Odors: Sprinkle baking soda on the affected area, leave it for an hour, then brush and rinse thoroughly. You can also try a diluted enzyme cleaner specifically designed for pet messes. Note, enzyme cleaners are less effective in dry, hot climates as the product requires lots of moisture for the enzymes be as effective as possible.

When to Call a Professional:

While regular maintenance and home remedies can handle most situations, consider professional cleaning for:

•   Deep cleaning: A professional cleaning with specialized equipment can remove deeply ingrained dirt, revive flattened blades, and restore the turf's overall appearance. Pet owners may require more frequent cleanings depending on the number of animals, size of animals, or individual sensitivity to odors.

•   Odor Elimination: The pros use safe, yet effective products to eliminate those nasty odors, and many have an option to sanitize the turf as well.

•   Stubborn stains: Professionals have access to specialized cleaning solutions and techniques to tackle stubborn stains without damaging the turf.

•   Infill maintenance: The infill (sand or rubber granulate) used beneath the turf plays a crucial role in drainage and performance. Professionals can not only use specialty tools to improve drainage but also assess the infill level and replenish it if necessary.

The Benefits of Professional Cleaning:

Professional cleaning services offer many benefits beyond just a sparkling clean turf:

•   Expertise: They have the knowledge and experience to handle various cleaning scenarios safely and effectively.

•   Specialized equipment: They use powerful yet gentle cleaning equipment that removes dirt and debris without damaging the turf fibers.

•   Extended lifespan: Regular professional cleaning can extend the life of your artificial turf by preventing premature wear and tear.

While regular maintenance goes a long way in keeping your artificial turf looking its best, remember that professional cleaning can be a valuable investment in its long-term health and beauty.