BEAUTIFUL LAWNS. FOR A BRIGHTER TOMORROW.Artificial grass can create a tidy, low-maintenance lawn for a busy family garden, but choosing a product should involve more than finding the softest-looking pile. Think about how the garden is actually used, how the surface will be installed and what maintenance it will need.
If children use the area, product information and the complete installation matter. Artificial grass should not automatically be treated as an impact-absorbing safety surface simply because it feels soft.
In this guide
1. Think about how the garden will be used
A lawn mainly used for relaxing has different demands from an area with frequent running, garden furniture, toys or heavy foot traffic. For busy spaces, compare fibre resilience and density as well as pile height.
Our pile-height guide explains the differences between shorter, medium and longer piles.
2. Compare softness and resilience
Longer pile can feel plush, while medium pile can provide a balance between comfort and an upright appearance. The construction of the fibres matters too. Samples let you compare softness and density directly rather than relying on photographs.
Browse our artificial grass samples before choosing for a family space.
3. Plan drainage properly
Family gardens need to cope with rain and routine cleaning. Check the drainage information for the product and make sure the base has a suitable route for water. Standing water can make any garden surface less convenient to use.
Read our artificial grass drainage guide before planning the base.
4. Consider surface temperature
Like many outdoor surfaces, artificial grass can become warm in direct sunshine. Conditions vary with weather, colour, fibre construction and exposure. Check the surface before children play barefoot during hot weather, particularly in sheltered areas that receive prolonged sun.
5. Do not confuse lawn turf with playground surfacing
A domestic artificial lawn is not automatically a certified critical-fall-height system. If the grass is being installed beneath climbing frames, raised play equipment or in a setting that requires impact protection, obtain appropriate advice and use a complete system designed and documented for that purpose.
6. Keep the lawn clean
Remove leaves, food, dirt and other debris as needed, deal with spills promptly and brush fibres according to the product guidance. Use cleaning products that are stated to be suitable for artificial grass.
If the family also has dogs, see our dog-cleaning guide and browse pet-friendly artificial grass.
7. Check edges and joins
A well-finished installation should avoid loose edges and poorly placed joins. Plan the roll layout before ordering and follow suitable fixing methods for the site. For a broader overview, see our installation guide.
8. Measure carefully
Accurate measurements can reduce unnecessary joins and waste. Measure the widest and longest points, account for irregular shapes and plan the pile direction consistently. Our artificial grass measuring guide explains the process.
Which pile height works for a family garden?
There is no single correct number. Medium-pile grass is popular because it can balance a natural appearance with practical maintenance, while longer-pile products provide a fuller look. Compare specific products rather than deciding from millimetres alone.
Our guide to 30mm vs 40mm artificial grass gives a useful side-by-side comparison.
Before you order
Check the intended use, backing, drainage and care guidance for your shortlisted products. Order samples, view them outside in your own light and consider how the finished area will be used throughout the year.
Explore the complete artificial grass collection from Status Grass to compare current options.