Cleaning Artificial Turf
Leaves and other debris can be whisked away with a blower
Most homeowners turn to artificial turf for their yard due to its minimal maintenance requirement compared to a natural grass lawn. Artificial turf lasts for years and does away the need for regular mowing, fertilizing, and watering to look lush green year-round. However, it is essential to keep in mind that artificial grass is not entirely maintenance-free. It does require routine washing and spot cleaning to get rid of dust, dirt, stains, foul odor, and mold. The frequency of cleaning, though, will depend on several factors like foot traffic, the area where you live (dusty or rainy) if there are pets and kids in the house, and the number of trees and shrubs surrounding the yard.
The threats and the cleaning procedure of artificial grass differ significantly from the real grass. If you are one of the homeowners who are enjoying or are looking to enjoy all the benefits a synthetic turf offers, here are some tips on how to clean and maintain it for optimal performance and to get the most of the investment:
Regular cleaning
It is advisable to clean or rinse the artificial turf weekly with a hose if it is used heavily or sees a frequent accumulation of debris. Here is how homeowners can undertake the general care of artificial turf:
Small debris- To remove visible trash (leaves, small rocks, pet hair, seeds, cigarette butts, and twigs) from the artificial turf, use a leaf blower, small vacuum, lawn rake, or a broom. After removing the solid waste, rinse it with a hose to get rid of dust and small sediments.
Food and drink stains- Artificial turfs are subjected to food and drink spills, especially if the yard hosts frequent parties. Most alcohol, coffee, tea, and cola spillages can be dislodged easily, either using a paper towel or rinsing it immediately. The quicker you will respond to and clean the stains, the easier it will be. For more stubborn spills (oil and grease), use a solution of warm water and detergent or water and vinegar.
Sticky waste- To clean chewing gum, candy, tree sap, and other sticky substances, gently scrape using a plastic knife or use dry ice. Avoid using any harsh chemicals or other cleaning solvents to clean the artificial grass.
Pet waste- It is quite simple for pet lovers to clean pet waste from artificial turf. Use a plastic bag to remove solid waste after it has dried completely and then rinse that area using water. To get rid of urine stains and smells, saliva, and other odors rinse the site frequently and use an odor neutralizer and stain remover product.
Snow and ice- It is best to let the ice melt and drain away naturally. Use a plastic shovel to remove the snow instead of a metal shovel.
Deep cleaning
Apart from routine cleaning, it is also essential to perform thorough deep cleaning once a month. Wash the turf thoroughly with water, and apply a non-toxic sanitizer to prevent bacteria and bug settlement. Use a strong magnet to pick up items like screws, nails, and hairpins to keep the lawn safe for kids and pets. Other things include adding new infills and re-lifting the turf blades. You can call in a professional to perform deep cleaning once or twice a year.
Performing routine cleaning of the artificial turf not only ensures a clean, safe, and odor-free surface but also extends its lifespan. The best part is that it is far less demanding and time-consuming than natural grass.
Turfscapes of Arizona is a Phoenix-based family-owned business specializing in the installation of artificial lawns, hardscaping, and rock spreading. Find out how artificial turf can improve your home or business landscaping. Call 602-884-8760 today!