One of the best things about what you need to know about artificial grass if you own a pet is that it is completely safe for your furry friends. Your pets will love it and be comfortable enough to not just play on it but also relieve themselves. As a responsible pet owner, you must clean the pet turf regularly.
Why it Matters
Pet waste may not cause your artificial grass to brown, as with natural grass, but it may cause matting if not taken care of well and in time. Properly cleaning the turf and caring for it in other ways will ensure a longer lifespan. Cleaning the pet turf is crucial for your pets’ health. Keep the artificial grass clean, and you will not worry about bacteria and other disease-causing agents. Additionally, your pet will be much happier and more comfortable playing around and resting in a clean area. Your pet will not enjoy the stains and odour on the turf any more than you and other families would.
Step 1: Scoop up the Solid Waste
One of the reasons why shorter grass is ideal for pet owners when choosing the type of artificial grass product is the ease of picking solid pet waste. Use a standard dog poop-scooper for the job. You don’t want to skip this step, as you’ll only risk blocking your drainage system if you move to the next step without removing the solid poop. Also, it’s best to pick after your dog and remove the poop as soon as possible. You don’t want it lying around as it may become a breeding ground for bacteria and germs. While not encouraged, you can get away with leaving the poop on the turf a little longer if your artificial grass has a great microbial surface.
Step 2: Gentle Vacuum
In addition to the solid waste, other debris, such as pet hairs and leaves, may be on your pet turf. Gently vacuum the artificial grass to get rid of this debris. In addition to removing the debris, vacuuming also helps to remove odour. An alternative that is just as effective as vacuuming is using a leaf blower.
Step 3: Hose it Down
Thoroughly rinse down your pet turf with a garden hose. This step will flush away any residue lingering on the turf, thanks to the high-pressure flow. Additionally, hosing the turf encourages complete drainage. Blocked drainage may lead to bacteria, mold, and mildew growth. Dirt and any water-soluble wastes can then seep through the turf, ensuring it is clean.
Step 4: Spot Clean
Inspect the pet turf after hosing it down and check for stubborn areas. Mix a solution of warm water and mild soap, and use it to spot-clean these stubborn areas on your turf. You can also use an artificial grass cleaner, which is designed specifically for use on synthetic turf. While synthetic turf is not affected by more potent cleaning agents, it’s not recommended to use such products. Use a brush and scrub in circles to spot clean and remove any stubborn residue. Once done, rinse off all the spots.
Step 5: Use Disinfectants and a Deodorizer
Disinfectants remove both stains and odour. You can always use homemade disinfectants such as baking soda and vinegar or go for the store-bought kind. Spray or wipe the turf with the disinfectant to keep it clean. Applying a turf deodorizer that is pet-friendly is the ultimate finishing touch to your cleaning process. An all-natural deodorizer is the best option as it is safe and will not cause your pets any irritation. Spray the deodorizer evenly throughout your pet turf’s surface to eliminate any remaining bacteria and neutralize any odour.
Additional Tips for Pet Turf Cleaning
In addition to the main steps outlined above, here are some additional tips to enhance the cleanliness and maintenance of your artificial pet turf:
1. Regular Brushing:
Brushing your pet turf regularly helps to prevent matting and keep the blades of grass upright. Use a stiff-bristled brush or a power broom to brush the turf in different directions, ensuring even distribution and a natural appearance.
2. Avoid Harsh Chemicals:
When choosing cleaning products for your pet turf, avoid using harsh chemicals, bleach, or strong disinfectants that could potentially harm your pets or damage the synthetic grass fibers. Opt for mild, pet-friendly cleaners or natural alternatives like vinegar and baking soda.
3. Manage Urine Odors:
If you have pets that frequently urinate on the turf, you can take additional steps to manage urine odors. Rinse the affected area with water immediately after urination to dilute the urine and prevent odors from setting in. You can also use enzymatic cleaners specifically designed to break down pet urine and neutralize odors.
4. Address Stubborn Stains:
If you encounter stubborn stains on your pet turf, such as mud or food spills, you can use a mild soap solution or artificial grass cleaner to treat the area. Gently scrub the stain with a soft brush, rinse thoroughly, and repeat if necessary. Avoid using abrasive materials that could damage the turf fibers.
5. Manage Excessive Shedding:
If your pets shed a lot of fur on the turf, consider regular grooming to minimize the amount of loose hair. Brushing your pets regularly and using pet hair removal tools can help prevent excessive shedding and keep your pet turf cleaner for longer periods.
6. Professional Cleaning:
Periodically, consider hiring professional turf cleaning services to deep clean your pet turf. They have specialized equipment and expertise to thoroughly clean and sanitize the turf, ensuring optimal cleanliness and longevity.
By following these additional tips, you can maintain a clean and healthy environment for your pets on your artificial pet turf. Remember, regular maintenance and cleaning will extend the lifespan of your turf and provide a comfortable space for your furry companions to enjoy.
Keep it Clean Always
There are many benefits to keeping pet turf clean, as outlined. Cleaning artificial grass is a straightforward process that you should not neglect doing as often as is necessary. For your pet’s health and the longevity of your turf, stick to a regular cleaning routine.
