How to Clean Artificial Grass

Remove leaves, twigs and debris regularly – a leaf blower, plastic rake or stiff brush works well. Leaves left to rot on artificial grass break down into a layer of organic matter that moss and weeds can root in.

Every few weeks, brush the grass against the direction of the pile with a stiff, non-metallic brush. This lifts the fibres, keeps the lawn looking natural and stops matted patches forming in areas that are walked on most. A power brush is worth considering for large lawns.

Artificial grass is usually laid over a weed membrane, but weeds can still grow at the edges or in the infill from wind-blown seeds. Pull them out by hand while they're small. Moss and algae grow in shaded, damp areas. A moss and algae killer suitable for artificial grass, applied on a dry day, deals with it; brush it out once it dies off.

Pick up solid waste as soon as possible and hose the area. Urine drains through the backing, but in warm weather the bacteria that break it down can cause an ammonia smell, especially where dogs go repeatedly.

Hose down the area regularly, and use an enzyme-based artificial grass cleaner or deodoriser to break down the urine at the source. Diluted white vinegar (about one part to two parts water) can also neutralise odours. Avoid bleach and strong disinfectants, which can harm pets and damage the fibres. If the smell persists, the infill or the sub-base may need deep cleaning or the infill replacing.

Most stains come off with water and a little washing-up liquid:

Once or twice a year, give the lawn a thorough clean: remove debris, treat weeds and moss, brush the pile, then rinse thoroughly with a hose. A pressure washer can be used carefully on some products, but a high-pressure jet held close can dislodge infill and damage the backing – check the manufacturer's advice and keep the nozzle well back.

Some companies offer professional artificial grass cleaning, which typically includes power brushing, removing contaminated infill, sanitising and topping up the infill sand.

Pet-friendly holiday lets and rentals with artificial grass benefit from a sanitising treatment between guests or tenancies, particularly in summer. It's a small extra on a changeover clean or an outdoor spring clean, and it avoids complaints about smells in the garden.

Autumn is the busiest time for artificial grass, because falling leaves rot quickly on the surface. Clear them weekly with a leaf blower or plastic rake. In winter, avoid walking on frozen grass where possible, as frozen fibres can be more brittle, and don't use salt or de-icer, which can damage the surface and infill.

In summer, rinse areas used by pets more often to keep smells down, and keep heat sources off the lawn – reflected sunlight from windows, barbecues and fire pits can melt fibres. A doormat at the edge of the lawn stops grit being tracked onto it from paths, which helps the fibres last longer.