Most artificial grass only needs leaves and debris cleared regularly, a brush against the pile every few weeks and a rinse with the hose now and then. Dog areas need rinsing more often and an occasional pet-safe enzyme cleaner. Keep harsh chemicals, metal rakes, close-up pressure washing and anything hot away from it.
How often does artificial grass need cleaning?
Less often than a lawn needs mowing, but it isn’t never. Most gardens only need a quick tidy now and then, a brush every few weeks and a proper clean once or twice a year. If you have trees, dogs or a lot of shade, it’ll need a bit more.
| How often | What to do |
|---|---|
| As needed | Pick up leaves, twigs and dog waste |
| Every few weeks | Brush against the direction of the pile with a stiff brush (not a metal one) |
| Every month or two, and in dry spells | Rinse with the hose, especially dog areas |
| Once or twice a year | A proper clean: brush, rinse, check the edges and joins, and top up kiln-dried sand where it’s used |
Brushing
Brushing keeps the fibres standing up and stops dirt settling into the base of the grass, which helps the lawn keep draining well. Use a stiff brush with synthetic bristles and work against the way the fibres lean. On a bigger lawn, a power brush made for artificial grass makes light work of it.
Busy areas flatten fastest, like the path to the shed, under the swing or where the dog runs, so give those a bit more attention.
Leaves and autumn
Autumn is the busiest time for an artificial lawn in Ireland, especially if there are trees or hedges nearby. Leaves left lying hold moisture and break down into a sludge that can stain the fibres. Moss and weeds take root in it too.
- A leaf blower is the quickest way to clear them. Use a lower setting near joins, edges and any sand infill.
- A plastic rake works well for wet, matted leaves.
- Clear them regularly through the season. Don’t wait for every last leaf to fall.
Moss and weeds
Weeds shouldn’t grow up through a properly installed lawn with a weed membrane under it. Seeds blown in can still take root in debris on the surface, though, and weeds can come up along the edges. Pull them by hand while they’re small.
Moss takes hold where there’s damp, shade and a build-up of debris, which describes plenty of north-facing Irish gardens. Regular brushing and keeping the surface clear usually keeps it away. If it does get established, brush it out and use a moss treatment labelled as suitable for artificial grass, following the instructions.
Dog areas
Pick up solids straight away and rinse the spot with the hose. Hose down the main toilet area regularly, more often in warm or dry weather, and use a pet-safe enzyme cleaner every so often to break down urine residue. Our guide to artificial grass for dogs covers this in detail, including kennels and runs.
Spills and stains
Most spills come off with warm water and a drop of washing-up liquid. Blot up as much as you can first, then sponge the area and rinse it well with clean water. With greasy marks, like food dropped off the barbecue, get to them quickly and go over them again if needed.
What not to do
Most of the damage we see on artificial grass comes from a handful of common mistakes:
- Pressure washing up close. A narrow jet held near the surface can damage fibres, open joins and wash out sand. If you use one at all, keep it on a wide fan setting and well back.
- Barbecues, fire pits and chimineas on the grass. Hot coals, embers and the heat underneath can melt the fibres. Keep them on a patio or paving.
- Fireworks, sparklers and cigarettes. Any of them can leave melted marks.
- Metal rakes and wire brushes. They pull and cut the fibres.
- Leaving chewing gum to set in. Harden it with ice and pick it off. Don’t reach for a solvent.
- Harsh chemicals. Bleach, white spirit, paint thinners, strong acids and fuel can damage the fibres and the backing.
- Heavy items left in one spot. Move furniture, paddling pools and play equipment around now and then so the pile doesn’t stay crushed.
Strong reflections from some windows or glass can also scorch a strip of grass now and again. If a line of damage keeps showing up in the same place, that’s often why.
When cleaning isn’t enough
If the lawn still smells after a good rinse, holds puddles, or has dips that keep coming back, the problem is probably underneath, and usually down to the base. Our guide on how long artificial grass lasts explains what affects its condition over time, and you’ll find answers to other common questions on our FAQ page.
If you want to know what looking after artificial grass really involves before you go ahead, get in touch for a free quote and free samples, and we’ll talk you through it.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use a pressure washer on artificial grass?
Only with care. Keep it on a wide fan setting, held well back from the surface, and don't aim it at joins or edges. A garden hose is usually enough.
Can I use a leaf blower on artificial grass?
Yes. A leaf blower is one of the easiest ways to clear leaves, especially in autumn. Use a lower setting near joins and edges so you don't blow out any sand infill.
How do I get chewing gum off artificial grass?
Harden it with an ice cube or a bag of frozen peas, then pick or gently scrape it off. Don't use solvents, which can damage the fibres.
Why is moss growing on my artificial grass?
Moss takes hold where there's damp, shade and a build-up of debris. Regular brushing and clearing leaves usually keeps it away. If it does get established, brush it out and use a treatment labelled as suitable for artificial grass.
