Artificial grass is a common solution for homeowners in the many parts of the country, but for those with pets, keeping it clean remains an ongoing chore. While maintenance like lawn mowing and reseeding are spared, there is one downside to an artificial turf lawn: the lingering smell of urine. Thanks, Fido! And if there's one thing I know to be true, that smell of old pet urine can become quite strong, especially in the hot southern heat.

Why Does Artificial Grass Hold Onto Odor?

Pet-friendly artificial grass is designed to be durable and low-maintenance, but it doesn’t absorb liquids like natural grass. When your pet urinates on synthetic grass, the liquid can seep into the backing and the infill material. Unlike soil, this setup doesn’t break down the urine naturally, so as it sits there (boiling and baking in the heat), bacteria multiply and cause a persistent odor.

Hand holds a piece of artificial turf.
Even high-quality turf requires a cleaning routine. Credit: SBenitez / Getty Images

Daily Maintenance Tips to Prevent Odor Buildup

Committing to regular maintenance is the best way to prevent unpleasant odors from becoming an issue. Here’s what you can do daily:

  • Rinse with Water: After your pet does their business, rinse it with a garden hose. This helps dilute and wash away urine before it soaks into the artificial grass infill. Solid waste? Remove it immediately.
  • Use a Natural Odor Neutralizer: For extra protection, you can use a pet-safe, natural odor neutralizer spray once a day. These products can help reduce smells of urine without harming your grass or pets. A splash of diluted vinegar can soak in to treat an artificial lawn.
  • Encourage Hydration: The more hydrated your pet is, the less concentrated their urine will be. Offer your pet plenty of water throughout the day, which can help reduce the intensity of the smell and keep the fake grass fresh.
Dog in a backyard plays on artificial turf.
Keep it clean so you and your pet can continue to play. Credit: Shuke Li / Getty Images

How to Deep Clean Your Artificial Grass

Even with daily care, sometimes you’ll need to do a deep clean:

You'll Need

  • high-pressure hose
  • bucket
  • stiff brush or turf broom
  • enzymatic cleaner or turf cleaner with built-in hose adapter

Cleaning Steps

  1. Rinse the area thoroughly. Use the hose to spray down the entire area. This is not the time to mist the surface; you really want to try to soak the fake grass fibers to loosen and wash away any surface urine.
  2. Apply the cleaner. Attach the cleaner to the hose so it can be diluted and applied evenly. Be generous with the application, especially in areas where your pet frequently urinates. Let the cleaner sit for 10-15 minutes. Enzymes break down the bacteria causing the odor on each artificial grass blade, so it’s important to give them time to work.
  3. Scrub the grass. Use a broom to wipe down the artificial grass fibers gently. This is a good way to work the cleaner into the infill and make sure it penetrates well.
  4. Rinse it again. After the cleaner has had time to work, rinse the area turf with water again. Make sure to wash away all the cleaner and any remaining residue.
  5. Let it dry. Allow the area to dry completely. If possible, avoid letting your pet on the grass during this time.
  6. Repeat as necessary. Once it's dry, you shouldn't notice the smell anymore, but in cases when the buildup is bad, you might need to repeat the cleaning. Target areas that need it with more cleaner, and be sure to rinse it thoroughly.
Dog lays on artificial grass.
Keep their outdoor space clean and sanitary. Credit: Fernando Trabanco Fotografía / Getty Images

FAQ

How often should I clean my artificial grass to prevent urine smell?

For pet owners, a daily rinse is ideal. Combine that with a more thorough cleaning using an enzymatic solution every 2-4 weeks to keep things fresh; consider deep cleaning more often when the weather's hot.

Two terriers sit in the grass in a fenced backyard.
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Can I use regular household cleaners on artificial grass?

It’s best to avoid harsh chemicals, as they can damage the grass fibers and be harmful to pets. Some people try using baking soda to manage the smells, but honestly, it's not enough, especially when it gets bad. It's best to stick to pet-friendly enzymatic cleaners and commercial grass cleaners specifically designed for synthetic turf.

What if the odor persists after cleaning?

Persistent odors might mean the urine has penetrated deep into the infill. In this case, you might need a professional cleaning service, or you may consider replacing the infill entirely.