If you’re a pet owner, you already know what a game-changer artificial grass can be. No more muddy paw prints. No more yellow patches or chewed-up lawns. And best of all, no more “keep off the grass” rules. It’s a total upgrade for you and your dog.
But here’s the honest truth: while pet turf is easier to manage than natural grass, it’s not maintenance-free. Just like any surface that sees daily use, artificial grass needs regular attention to stay clean, odor-free, and comfortable for your pet to play on.
That doesn’t mean hours of hard labor. Far from it. A simple, consistent routine is all it takes to keep your turf looking sharp and feeling fresh. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know – from weekly cleaning basics to seasonal tips and the best tools for the job.
Whether you’ve had synthetic turf for years or are planning a new installation, this is your go-to manual for keeping it in top shape.
Why Pet Turf Maintenance Matters
For homes with pets, especially dogs, regular care isn’t just smart – it’s essential. Here’s why.
When your dog does their business on turf, urine can seep into the infill if not rinsed off regularly. Over time, this causes unpleasant smells and creates a breeding ground for bacteria. Pet hair, pollen, and debris can also build up and clog your turf’s drainage system, leading to poor water flow and potential damage underneath.
Routine maintenance helps you avoid all of that. With proper care, your artificial lawn can last 15 to 25 years and maintain the same soft, green, odor-free quality it had on day one. And when you’ve got Big Bully Turf underfoot — built with EffortlessFlow™ drainage and Polar Yarn cooling fibers — you’re already working with turf engineered to make maintenance easier.
But like any great product, it performs best when you give it the regular attention it deserves.
Want turf that’s easier to clean and built to last? Schedule your free consultation and explore turf engineered for pets.
Your Weekly Turf Care Routine (Takes 20 Minutes or Less)
Here’s your go-to guide for weekly maintenance – perfect for busy households, multiple pets or anyone who wants to avoid turf headaches down the road.
1. Rinse with a Garden Hose
Start by giving your turf a quick rinse with your garden hose. Focus on the areas where your dog tends to pee most often. Rinsing helps flush out pet urine before it soaks into the infill and starts to smell. It also washes away dirt, pollen, and other debris that might be sitting on the surface.
If you live in a hot or dusty area, you might want to rinse more often – two to three times a week can keep things cooler and fresher.
2. Remove Pet Waste Immediately
Solid waste should be removed as soon as you see it. Use a pooper scooper or compostable bag and dispose of it just like you would with natural grass. Once you’ve removed the waste, rinse the area with water. This helps reduce bacteria and keeps the turf hygienic for both pets and people.
3. Brush the Turf Fibers
Grab a turf rake or stiff-bristle push broom and gently brush the turf. Go against the grain to fluff up the blades and redistribute the infill underneath. This keeps the surface soft and bouncy, and it prevents matting in areas your dog uses most often.
Avoid using metal rakes or hard tools. These can damage the fibers or tear seams.
4. Use a Pet-Safe Deodorizer
After brushing and rinsing, spray down your turf with a pet-friendly deodorizer. You can use an enzyme-based turf cleaner or a simple 50/50 mix of vinegar and water. These solutions break down odor-causing bacteria naturally and leave your yard smelling fresh – without any harmful chemicals.
Want a turf cleaning routine built around your pets? Ask us about our favorite low-odor, pet-safe products during your free consultation.
Monthly Deep Cleaning: What to Add
In addition to your weekly routine, it’s smart to schedule a deeper clean every month. This helps keep your turf in peak condition and catches small issues before they turn into big repairs.
Here’s what to include:
- Spot-check the infill levels. If the turf feels too firm or patchy, you may need to top it off.
- Look for flat or matted areas and fluff them back up with a broom or brush.
- Check drainage performance. After rinsing, water should flow freely. Any standing water might signal a clog or uneven sub-base.
- Vacuum any accumulated pet hair, especially around corners or shaded spots. Use a vacuum without a rotating brush to avoid pulling turf fibers.
If you have multiple pets or live in an area with lots of dust, pollen or leaf debris, consider bumping this up to twice a month.
Noticing matted areas or uneven wear? Let us inspect your turf and give you a free maintenance checkup.
Seasonal Turf Maintenance: Adjust for Weather
While synthetic turf isn’t affected by temperature changes the way natural grass is, the seasons still influence how often and how intensely you’ll need to clean. Here’s what to keep in mind:
Spring & Summer
Warm weather means your turf sees more use, and more potential odor buildup. Rinse more frequently (3-4 times a week) and use deodorizer regularly, especially after heavy use. If you live in a hot, dry climate, installing a cooling infill can help keep surface temps more comfortable for paws.
Fall
Falling leaves can quickly trap moisture and clog drainage systems. Clear them using a leaf blower or soft-bristle broom. This is also a good time to trim any overhanging trees that might shed into your yard.
Winter
Cold temperatures and snow won’t damage your turf, but you should still avoid scraping with metal shovels. If snow piles up, use a plastic shovel or soft push broom to gently remove it. After storms, inspect your turf for any lifting seams or exposed edges.
The Truth About Turf Maintenance
No lawn is completely maintenance-free. But with artificial pet turf, the difference is dramatic.
You’ll still need to rinse, brush and freshen it up from time to time, but these quick, low-cost tasks are easy to keep up with. Compare that to natural grass, where you’re constantly battling muddy paws, brown patches, weeds, digging, pests and high water bills just to keep it looking decent.
With turf, you skip the weekly mowing, the seasonal re-sodding, the irrigation headaches and the chemical treatments. Instead, you get a yard that stays clean, green and play-ready year-round – with just minutes of care each week. For pet owners, that’s not just a win for convenience. It’s peace of mind.
Wondering how much artificial grass would cost you? Click here for a free quote.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pet Turf
Does artificial pet turf smell over time?
Only if it’s not maintained. With proper rinsing and deodorizing, your turf should stay fresh. Turf with built-in drainage, like what we install, is especially effective at minimizing odors.
Can I use bleach or chemical cleaners on turf?
No. Harsh chemicals can damage turf fibers and irritate your pets’ paws. Always use pet friendly, turf-safe cleaning products or natural solutions like vinegar and water.
Is it safe for my dog to run, roll, and dig on artificial grass?
Absolutely. Our turf is designed to be durable, soft, and safe. It’s resistant to digging, doesn’t trap fleas, and won’t cause skin irritation.
Do I need to hire a professional to clean my turf?
Most of the time, no. A consistent DIY maintenance routine is more than enough. However, if your turf sees extremely heavy use, a once-a-year professional cleaning can help extend its life.
What’s the difference between pet turf and regular synthetic grass?
Pet turf includes special features like antimicrobial backing, better drainage, and more durable fibers. It’s made to stand up to regular use from pets, and it’s what we recommend for all dog owners.
Why Big Bully Turf Is Built to Last
At Big Bully Turf, we don’t just install synthetic grass. We build outdoor spaces your pets (and your family) will love for years to come.
Unlike box-store turf brands, we only use high quality artificial grass built for real life. Our turf is:
- Pet friendly and non-toxic
- Designed with EffortlessFlow™ backing for maximum drainage
- Cooled with Polar Yarn tech to reduce heat on sunny days
- Covered by a 25-year warranty, and backed by a local team that cares
We know turf is an investment, and we’re here to make sure it pays off every season.
Ready for Yard Freedom?
Let’s upgrade your outdoor space into something cleaner, cooler, and more dog-friendly. Whether you already have turf or are just getting started, Big Bully Turf is your local expert for installation, care, and everything in between.
Book your free in-home consultation today and get expert help choosing the right turf, planning the install and learning how to care for it long term.
