The Complete Guide to Deep Cleaning Artificial Turf for Dogs

Deep-cleaning artificial turf for dogs is good practice if your pets go potty in your yard. You don’t have to do it very often, but doing it on a regular schedule makes it easier to keep your backyard clean, sanitary, and free from bad smells.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process, from how to know when it’s time for a deep clean to what you’ll need and other tips.

Know When It’s Time for a Deep Clean

Your artificial grass may be due for a deep clean if you start noticing these signs:

• Strong pet odors emanating from the turf, even after spot cleaning
• Artificial grass fibers excessively matted down or discolored, especially in potty areas
• Infill appears darker or dirty

Since it can take some time before these signs become obvious, inspect your yard every month or so. 

Deep Cleaning Artificial Pet Turf: What You Need

Moreover, having the right artificial grass cleaning tools and solutions on hand will make the process easier and more effective. Here’s what you’ll need:

Cleaning Tools

• Stiff Bristle Push Broom or Outdoor Broom
• Garden Hose with Pressurized Nozzle
• Bucket
• Scrub Brush with Stiff Bristles
• Terry Cloth Rags
• Spray Bottle for Spot Cleaning and Pre-Treating

Cleaning Solutions

You have several options here, including all-natural cleaning agents:

• Mild Detergent
• Dish Soap
• 1:1 Mixture of  Water and White Vinegar
• Pet Enzyme Cleaner
• Artificial Turf Cleaner
• Baking Soda Paste

Step-by-Step Guide to Deep Cleaning Artificial Grass

Follow these steps to thoroughly deep clean and deodorize artificial turf used by dogs:

1. Remove Debris and Solid Waste

Pick up any visible dog waste or debris like toys and fallen leaves and dispose properly. This will prevent objects from obstructing the cleaning process.

2. Pre-Treat Urine Spots and Stains

Locate any urine spots or stains and spray them liberally with an enzyme cleaner specially formulated to break down uric acid crystals. Allow it to soak in for 5-10 minutes. This pretreating will boost cleaning effectiveness.

3. Sweep the Turf

Use a stiff push broom to sweep debris free of the grass blades down to the infill layer. Sweep in multiple directions. Furthermore, this agitation helps loosen deposits.

4. Scrub with Detergent

In a bucket, dilute detergent with water. Use a stiff scrub brush dipped in the solution to scrub the artificial grass fibers. Additionally, apply light pressure and scrub the entire surface. Focus on high traffic areas and stains.

5. Rinse Thoroughly

Connect a garden hose to a high pressure nozzle. Rinse away all dirt, debris, detergent residue, and grime that was lifted by scrubbing. Furthermore, check for any remaining debris or stains and re-scrub as needed.

6. Dislodge and Rinse Infill.

Use pressurized water to blast infill material free of compacted dirt, debris, and grime. Rake gently with a push broom to further dislodge. Rinse until water runs clear. Let dry completely, then brush to redistribute the infill evenly. 

7. Deodorize With Vinegar.

For a simple odor-removal booster, spray white vinegar lightly across the turf. Simultaneously, the acid neutralizes odors. Allow to fully dry.

8. Fluff Fibers.

Once fully dry, use a push broom to fluff up the fibers so they stand upright again. Conversely, rake against the grain direction.

9. Spot Clean as Needed.

Check for any remaining stains or soiled areas and spot clean as needed using a scrub brush and appropriate cleaning solution. Subsequently, let dry fully before allowing pets back on.

Following this thorough deep cleaning routine will keep your artificial grass looking pristine and odor-free!

Got More Questions? Give Us a Call!

Switching to artificial grass can simplify many aspects of pet ownership, including backyard maintenance. If you have questions or need help finding the right artificial grass for your yard, our team at FieldTurf Landscape is always ready to help. 

We’re happy to offer recommendations and answer your questions – book a call to get started!