Is artificial grass pet friendly?

There are over 51 million pets in the UK. That’s a lot of pet parents. If you’re one of them, you’re probably wondering ‘is artificial grass pet friendly’ for your cuddly friend. The short answer is YES! Artificial grass is pet friendly. Absolutely. But you may want to know more about common construction and care as a pet owner. We’ll break down how to look after artificial grass as a pet owner and common grass features.

Artificial grass is non-toxic and eco-friendly

All our suppliers are reputable manufacturers that are pet-safe. This means no lead and plastic components that are rated safe and non-carcinogenic. There are also anti-microbial options available for pet owners. This can help to prevent any disease transmitted from faecal matter left by your pet. Artificial turf means your garden will always be green and welcoming for pets and people. But there are benefits to the environment too. 

According to the Guardian, “There are some environmental benefits to using artificial grass. Unlike a real lawn, fake grass doesn’t need to be mowed – which some people do with electric or fossil fuel mowers – or watered, which is a serious consideration as the UK anticipates increasing water stress due to the climate crisis. Nor does it require fertilisers or herbicides, some of which have been subject to huge controversy, to achieve a uniform look.”

Caring for Artificial Grass as a Pet Owner

A common question we get is, “can my pets toilet on the artificial grass”? Yes, they can. But you’ll want to hose the mess off with water and use a pet-safe cleaner to disinfect the area regularly. Any leaves or other debris can be brushed off with a soft-bristle brush. Any waste matter is treated just the same as rainwater and will leach off following the same channels. Synthetic Grass DFW recommends, “Start by hosing off the area with a garden hose. Then, make a vinegar solution of equal parts of vinegar and water. Spray the area with this solution and rinse with clean water. Vinegar is a non-toxic, natural deodorizer that is safe for children and pets.”

What if you start to notice a smell? That’s okay. Most pet deodorisers with enzymes are rated for use on artificial grass. Simply hose off the grass first, then apply the enzyme deodoriser to the affected areas. If the scent lingers, apply a further coat. Remember to fully saturate the area. The majority of the mess and the embedded scent will be beneath the surface. It will cover a greater area below than what’s visible on top. 

Deep Cleaning of Artificial Grass for Pet Owners

If your turf is quite dirty, you can have it professionally jet washed and sanitised or do this yourself. According to Fuze, “ Power washing the turf will clean the artificial grass quickly. Take care not to power wash solids. Pick up any solids including pet faeces before power washing.  Watch out for seeds on the turf, these can sprout and grow into weeds. Keep the power washer nozzle at least a foot away from the artificial turf to avoid damage. Try and angle the nozzle as you spray the turf as this has the effect of fluffing the green blades upright.”