Simple tips and tricks on how to clean and keep your artificial grass smelling good if you have a pet

Artificial grass from Australian Outdoor Living is a low-maintenance, year-round solution that looks and feels just like real lawn. It's especially ideal for homes with kids and pets, offering a safe and durable surface for play and relaxation.

However, while artificial turf is a convenient alternative to natural grass, it can become your pet’s go-to bathroom spot. If not cleaned regularly, unpleasant odours may start to linger.

In this guide, we’ll share simple, practical tips to help you clean artificial grass effectively and keep it smelling fresh—so your lawn stays inviting, no matter the season.

Regularly Rinse Your Artificial Lawn

A key tip is to clean up after your dog promptly and as often as possible.

Just like with natural grass, spraying your artificial lawn with a garden hose helps rinse away urine and other residues, preventing unpleasant odors from developing.

If your pet leaves solid waste on the turf, be sure to pick it up quickly, then give the area a thorough rinse. This simple routine keeps your artificial lawn fresh, clean, and smelling great—making it a pleasant space for the whole family.

What If Regular Cleaning Isn’t Enough?

One of the main causes of lingering odors on artificial grass is dog urine, which contains urea, urochrome, and uric acid crystals.

While many cleaning products effectively remove urea and urochrome, the uric acid crystals often remain trapped in the turf fibers or infill. These crystals are the primary source of persistent odors, especially when activated by moisture or humidity.

To eliminate these stubborn smells, it’s crucial to use gentle, pet-safe solutions. Harsh chemicals can damage your artificial lawn and may irritate your pet’s paws.

Depending on the size and location of the affected area, sprinkle a few kilograms of baking soda evenly over your artificial lawn. Using a fertilizer spreader can help distribute it quickly and uniformly.

For the best results, check the weather forecast and choose a few dry days without rain to apply the baking soda.

The baking soda will absorb odors over time, and when it eventually rains, it will break down into carbon dioxide, eliminating the smell. If no rain is expected soon, wait a few days and then rinse your lawn thoroughly with a hose to achieve the same effect.

If You Need Something a Little Stronger…

Another effective option to keep your artificial lawn smelling fresh is using minerals like Zeolite or Trigene. These minerals not only absorb odors but also promote beneficial microorganism activity that helps break down uric acid crystals. Depending on your dog’s habits, this can be a reliable long-term solution.

You can also try a simple mixture of water and white vinegar. Mix equal parts in a garden pressure sprayer and apply it to the affected areas. If you don’t have a sprayer, they’re inexpensive and available at most hardware stores for around $5 to $10.

While no method guarantees 100% odor elimination, with consistent maintenance, you should notice improvement over time.

If you’re still struggling to keep your artificial lawn smelling great or want personalized advice, feel free to contact your local branch—we’re here to help!