The Pet Owner’s Guide to Artificial Grass Cleaning Products

Pet turf in Austin, TX gives you more cleaning choices than natural grass since you don’t have to worry about ruining your lawn. Better yet, some of the most effective cleaning products for artificial grass are cheap, everyday household items. These are some of our favorites here at TexasTurf:

1. White Vinegar: Classic Odor-Fighter

Vinegar’s mild acidity neutralizes the alkaline components in pet urine, effectively breaking down the source of unpleasant smells. Plain distilled white vinegar is a convenient option, but other types, like apple cider vinegar, will work too.

How to use vinegar to clean pet turf:

• Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle.
• Thoroughly saturate the affected area on your artificial grass. 
• Let the solution sit for 5-10 minutes and then rinse well with clean water.

2. Baking Soda: Deodorizer & Gentle Abrasive

Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) is a natural odor absorber and mild abrasive that can gently lift stains from grass blades. Standard baking soda from the grocery store is all you need.

How to clean pet turf using baking soda:

• Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda over the affected area.
• Let it work its magic for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for stubborn odors).
• For heavily soiled areas, make a paste by mixing baking soda with a small amount of water.
• Apply the paste to the affected area and gently scrub with a soft brush.
• Let it sit for 15-20 minutes (or longer if you prefer), then rinse thoroughly with water.

3. Dish Soap: Grime Remover

Dish soap is formulated to break down oils and fats, effectively removing residues that can sometimes be left behind with pet waste.  

This can be especially helpful if your pet has a tendency for greasy fur or oily droppings. Choose a mild, unscented, or naturally scented dish soap to avoid harsh chemicals.

How to use dish soap to clean pet turf:

• Mix a small squirt of dish soap with warm water in a bucket or spray bottle.
• Apply the solution to the affected area.
• For tougher stains and residues, gently scrub with a soft brush.
• Rinse thoroughly with clean water.

4. Lemon Juice: Freshness Booster

Lemon juice is a double threat against pet messes on artificial grass. Its citric acid is a mild disinfectant, killing bacteria and reducing potential health risks. 

It also works as a deodorizer, breaking down odor-causing compounds and leaving a fresh citrus scent that masks lingering smells. Freshly squeezed lemon juice is the most potent option, but bottled lemon juice works just as well.

Using lemon juice to clean artificial grass for dogs:

• Mix the juice of one lemon with a cup of water in a spray bottle.
• Apply the solution liberally to the affected area and let it dry naturally. 

5. Hydrogen Peroxide: Stain and Odor Tackler

Hydrogen peroxide offers a versatile solution for pet-related stains and odors on artificial grass. Its mild oxidizing properties help break down organic matter, effectively removing discoloration and neutralizing stubborn smells left by pet waste. 

Use standard 3% hydrogen peroxide, a safe concentration for both household use and pet-friendly artificial grass in Austin, TX.

Cleaning pet turf with hydrogen peroxide works like this:

• Mix equal parts 3% hydrogen peroxide and water in a spray bottle.
• Spray the affected area generously and let it sit for 10-15 minutes. 
• The solution may bubble slightly, which indicates that it’s working to break down the stain and odor.
• Rinse thoroughly with clean water.

6. Baking Soda + Vinegar: Fizzy Cleaning Power

Remember those science fair volcanoes? The fizzy “lava” is usually created by pouring baking soda into a vinegar container inside the mountain. This causes a fizzy chemical reaction because vinegar (an acid) reacts with baking soda (a base) to create carbon dioxide gas (bubbles), water, and a type of salt.  

You can use the same science fair magic on pet turf. The bubbles lift dirt and stains, while the vinegar neutralizes odors and kills bacteria. The baking soda also absorbs smells for extra cleaning power.

Using vinegar and baking soda to clean synthetic grass for pets:

• Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle.
• Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda over the affected area.
• Spray the vinegar solution over the baking soda. The mixture will fizz as it reacts, aiding in stain and odor removal.
• Allow the solution to sit for 3-5 minutes.
• Rinse the area well with clean water to remove residue.

Learn More with TexasTurf

These all-natural cleaners keep your artificial grass fresh and safe for your furry companions.  Combine them with routine cleaning and your artificial grass will look and function perfectly for years to come.

Interested in artificial grass? Contact us for a free consultation. We specialize in beautiful, pet-friendly artificial grass installations for both residential and commercial applications. Fill out this form or call 346-250-4797 today to speak with a member of our team.