How Pet Waste Affects Artificial Turf and How Turf Disinfectants Can Help
As pet owners, we love our furry friends and want nothing but the best for them. This includes giving them a fun, safe, and clean environment for playing. Hundreds of homeowners have switched to artificial grass to give their pets the backyard they deserve, but one factor that is often overlooked in the process is the impact that pet waste can have on turf. If you’re a pet owner with synthetic grass landscaping, here’s how pet waste affects artificial turf and how synthetic turf disinfectant can help.
How Pet Waste Affects Artificial Grass
Pets, especially dogs, have a natural instinct to go to the bathroom on grass. This is why many pet owners opt for synthetic grass landscaping, as it provides a realistic and grass-like surface for their pets to relieve themselves on.
However, while artificial grass has efficient drainage and evergreen blades that make it superior for pet use, the synthetic material cannot absorb or naturally break down pet waste. This means that the waste can accumulate on the surface if not cleaned properly, leading to a host of problems.
The first and most obvious issue is the strong and unpleasant odor that can start to form. When waste is left stagnant for too long, bacteria grow and multiply, releasing ammonia that causes foul odors. This can be a huge deterrent for you and your pets when you want to use your outdoor space.
Additionally, pet urine can cause discoloration and staining on your artificial turf. This is primarily due to the nitrogen present in dog urine, which can cause a burning effect and discolor artificial turf if not properly maintained.
Finally, pet waste can provide a breeding ground for harmful bacteria and parasites. Without proper turf cleaning and maintenance, these bacteria can spread and pose a risk to both humans and pets. This is especially concerning for households with children who like playing on the lawn. It’s important for pet owners to be aware of these potential hazards and regularly clean their synthetic grass to keep the area safe for every member of the family.
Pet Turf Deodorizers and Enzymatic Cleaners
Fortunately, there are numerous solutions available to address the issue of pet waste on artificial grass. Turf deodorizers and enzymatic cleaners are specifically designed to neutralize and remove odors and bacteria caused by pet waste on artificial grass. These products, such as TurFresh BioS+ and TurFresh BioX, contain natural enzymes that break down organic matter, killing off odor-causing bacteria and eliminating the source of unwanted smells.
When choosing a turf deodorizer, it’s important to ensure that it’s safe for use on artificial grass. Harsh chemicals can cause more harm than good and may damage your synthetic turf. Opt for products that are designed specifically for use on artificial grass and have all-natural, safe ingredients. At TurFresh, all of our turf cleaning products are all-natural, non-toxic, and 100 percent safe for kids and pets.
Synthetic Grass Cleaning Routines for Pet Owners
In addition to using specialized turf deodorizers and enzymatic cleaners, it’s important for pet owners to establish a regular maintenance routine for their artificial turf. This will not only keep your outdoor space clean and odor-free but also protect the longevity of your investment.
You should always pick up solid pet waste as soon as possible, just as you would with a natural grass yard. Scoop the waste using a pooper scooper or plastic bag, and ensure that you’re hunting for dog waste at least once a day.
Weekly, rinse down your artificial grass with water to remove dust and small debris as well as any remaining pet waste particles. These are often the most common sources of turf odors, so a quick rinse with the garden hose will go a long way in any preventative turf maintenance routine.
Monthly, apply a cleaning solution such as a mild detergent mixed with water. Mist the solution over the affected areas using a spray bottle, let it sit for several minutes, and then rinse. Follow up with an application of your favorite turf deodorizer or enzymatic cleaner for more effective cleaning and odor elimination.
Every few months, it’s also a good idea to invest in professional synthetic turf maintenance services for a deep clean. These services, such as TurfClean, will do everything from re-bloom turf blades to top-up infill — and, of course, eliminate pet odors. Investing in a deep clean from turf maintenance experts will help keep your lawn looking and smelling its best year-round while ensuring your artificial grass lasts for years to come.
If you’re a pet owner looking for the easiest and most effective ways to take care of your synthetic grass, look no further than TurFresh. We’re a leading synthetic turf maintenance provider with customizable service options for homes and businesses, as well as a comprehensive selection of proprietary turf cleaning products available on our online store. To find out more or to schedule a cleaning, give us a call today at 855-444-8873 or contact us online.