BEAUTIFUL LAWNS. FOR A BRIGHTER TOMORROW.Artificial grass can work well in gardens used by dogs, but it still needs regular cleaning. The most effective routine is simple: remove solid waste promptly, rinse the affected area when appropriate, keep drainage clear and use cleaning products that are suitable for artificial turf.
The exact care instructions for your lawn should always take priority, so check the guidance for your chosen product before applying any cleaner.
In this guide
1. Remove solid waste promptly
Pick up dog waste as soon as practical, just as you would on a natural lawn. If residue remains, allow it to dry where appropriate and remove it carefully before rinsing. Prompt removal reduces the chance of odours developing and makes routine cleaning easier.
2. Rinse the affected area
For routine cleaning, water can help rinse away urine and light residue. Apply enough water to move contamination through or away from the pile without flooding the area. Good drainage underneath the grass is important because water needs somewhere to go.
If you are planning a new pet area, our artificial grass for dogs guide explains why drainage and base preparation should be considered before installation.
3. Keep drainage routes clear
Leaves, debris and compacted material can interfere with surface drainage. Remove loose debris regularly and keep outlets clear, especially on patios and balconies. If water sits beneath the turf, cleaning becomes less effective and odours can be harder to control.
Read our artificial grass drainage guide for more detail.
4. Brush the fibres
Regular brushing can help lift fibres and move loose debris to the surface for removal. Use a brush or maintenance tool suitable for artificial grass, and avoid aggressive tools that could damage the fibres or backing. Browse our grass accessories for maintenance options.
5. Deal with persistent smells carefully
If rinsing alone is not enough, use a cleaner specifically stated to be suitable for artificial grass and follow its instructions. Test unfamiliar products on a small, inconspicuous area first. Avoid assuming that household chemicals are suitable simply because they are strong cleaners.
Persistent odour can also indicate a drainage or installation issue rather than a surface-cleaning problem. If smell returns quickly after cleaning, check whether liquid can pass freely through the grass and base.
How often should artificial grass be cleaned after dogs?
There is no single timetable for every garden. A lawn used by one small dog occasionally will need a different routine from a compact area used by several dogs every day. As a practical approach, remove solids promptly, rinse frequently used toilet areas as needed, clear debris regularly and carry out a more thorough clean when the lawn begins to smell or look dirty.
Can I pressure wash artificial grass?
Do not assume pressure washing is suitable for every artificial grass product or installation. Excessive pressure can disturb infill, fibres, joins or edges. Follow the product and installation guidance for your lawn before using powered cleaning equipment.
Cleaning balcony grass used by pets
Balconies need extra attention because drainage outlets can be limited. Keep existing drains clear and make sure rinse water can escape without causing problems for neighbouring properties or the building. See our balcony artificial grass guide before fitting turf to a flat or apartment balcony.
Choosing grass for a dog-friendly garden
When buying, compare drainage, backing, pile height and cleaning requirements rather than choosing solely by appearance. Browse pet-friendly artificial grass and consider ordering samples before deciding.