Artificial grass is a fantastic solution for homeowners in the Dallas-Fort Worth area who want a green, low-maintenance lawn all year long. But if you have pets, you may have noticed something unpleasant: strong smells, especially during hot Texas summers. Pet urine and waste can leave behind lingering odors that get worse in the heat. Fortunately, there are effective ways to eliminate these smells and keep your lawn looking and smelling fresh.
In this guide, we’ll explain why pet odors happen, what not to do, and how to clean your turf properly. Whether you’re a DIY homeowner or someone looking to hire professional help, this article will give you the information you need to keep your artificial lawn fresh and clean.
Why Does Artificial Grass Smell Bad When You Have Pets?
Artificial grass doesn’t absorb urine like natural grass. Instead, it sits on top or drains through, and over time, the bacteria from pet urine can build up. When the sun heats the turf, it can bring out these trapped odors.
Here are some key reasons for strong turf smells:
Pet urine buildup: Dogs and other pets tend to urinate in the same areas, concentrating the odor.
Bacteria growth: Without regular cleaning, bacteria thrive in the warm, moist environment.
Poor drainage: If your turf wasn’t installed with proper drainage, water and urine may sit and cause smells.
Texas heat: The high temperatures in Dallas-Fort Worth can intensify odors.
These factors make regular turf cleaning essential for pet owners.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many homeowners unintentionally make things worse when trying to fix turf odor issues. Here are the top mistakes to avoid:
1. Not Rinsing Frequently Enough
Turf may look clean, but odor-causing bacteria are often invisible. Rinsing regularly with water is the first step to preventing buildup.
2. Using Harsh Chemicals
Bleach, vinegar, or other strong cleaners can damage your turf’s fibers and backing. They can also harm pets. Stick to pet-safe turf cleaners.
3. Skipping Infill Maintenance
Infill (the material between turf blades) absorbs moisture and can trap odors. Over time, it needs to be replaced, especially in high-use pet areas.
4. Waiting Too Long to Clean Up Waste
Leaving solid waste on the turf for too long allows bacteria and smells to spread. Prompt cleanup is essential.
Step-by-Step Guide: Removing Pet Odor from Artificial Grass
Here’s a comprehensive guide to cleaning your turf and eliminating pet odor effectively.
Step 1: Remove Solid Waste Quickly
Always pick up pet waste as soon as possible. Use a plastic bag or pooper scooper and dispose of it in a sealed trash bin.
Step 2: Rinse Thoroughly with Water
Use a garden hose to rinse the turf, especially in high-use areas. A hose-end sprayer works well for even coverage. Rinsing removes surface-level debris and dilutes urine.
Tip: Use cool or lukewarm water in the morning or evening to avoid burning your turf.
Step 3: Apply a Pet-Safe Enzyme Cleaner
Enzyme-based cleaners are the most effective products for removing pet odors. They break down the proteins and bacteria that cause the smell.
Look for cleaners labeled as:
Enzyme-based
Pet- and turf-safe
Biodegradable
Product Example: Simple Green Outdoor Odor Eliminator is a popular, safe option.
Let the cleaner sit for 10–15 minutes before rinsing it off again with water.
Step 4: Inspect and Refresh the Infill
If odor persists, the infill may be the culprit. Consider replacing it with a deodorizing infill like Zeolite, which neutralizes ammonia odors.
Zeolite infill is available from many turf supply companies and can be raked into existing turf installations. It’s especially helpful for dog owners.
Step 5: Schedule Professional Turf Cleaning (When Needed)
For deep odor problems or infill replacement, it may be time to call in the pros.
Texas Turf Cleaning offers professional turf cleaning services throughout the Dallas-Fort Worth metro. They use industrial-grade tools and eco-friendly products to deep clean your turf and restore its freshness.
Recommended Turf Odor Cleaning Products
Here are a few pet-safe, turf-friendly products to consider:
| Product | Type | Link |
|---|---|---|
| Simple Green Outdoor Odor Eliminator | Enzyme cleaner | View on Simple Green |
| Zeolite Infill | Deodorizing infill | Buy from Amazon |
| BioFill Turf Cleaner | Enzyme-based | See on BioFill |
Always follow product instructions carefully and test in a small area first.
How Often Should You Clean Your Turf?
Cleaning frequency depends on how many pets you have and how often they use the space. Here are general guidelines:
| Pet Use Level | Rinse with Water | Deep Clean with Enzyme Spray |
| 1 small pet | Once per week | Once every 2 weeks |
| 2–3 pets | Every 2–3 days | Weekly |
| 4+ pets or high traffic | Daily | Twice per week or professional monthly |
You can also sign up for a scheduled turf cleaning service with Texas Turf Cleaning to stay ahead of odor issues.
How Often Should You Clean Your Turf?
1. Train Your Pet to Use a Designated Area
Encourage your pet to use a specific part of the lawn. This makes cleanup easier and helps you focus odor control in one spot.
2. Use Deodorizing Infill
Replace your regular infill with a product like Zeolite, which absorbs and neutralizes odors.
3. Rinse Regularly
Even if there are no visible messes, rinse areas where pets go most frequently.
4. Avoid Overwatering
Too much water can reduce drainage effectiveness and encourage mold. Use just enough to rinse and clean.
5. Use a Hose-End Sprayer for Easy Cleaning
These attach to your garden hose and make applying cleaning solutions fast and easy.
How Often Should You Clean Your Turf?
If you notice any of the following, it may be time to call in professional help:
Odors persist even after thorough home cleaning
Turf feels sticky or compacted
Infill is flattened and smells strong
Your pet avoids certain areas of the yard
The team at Texas Turf Cleaning can handle even the toughest pet odor problems with safe and effective cleaning solutions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why does my artificial grass smell worse in summer?
Hot weather causes urine and bacteria to release stronger odors. It also speeds up bacterial growth. That’s why summer cleaning is extra important.
Are turf odor removers safe for pets and children?
Yes, as long as you use enzyme-based products labeled as pet- and turf-safe. Avoid bleach, ammonia, and other harsh chemicals.
Can I use vinegar or baking soda to clean turf?
Baking soda mixed with water can help in mild cases. Vinegar, however, may damage turf backing and is not very effective for strong pet odors.
Will professional cleaning damage my turf?
No. Professional turf cleaners use safe, pressure-controlled equipment and cleaners designed specifically for artificial grass.
How much does professional turf cleaning cost?
Prices vary depending on the size of your lawn and condition, but most homeowners in the DFW area can expect to pay between $200–$400, more if very large square footage or heavily soiled.
Final Thoughts
If you’re a pet owner in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, keeping your artificial grass clean doesn’t have to be a challenge. With the right routine, a few key products, and occasional professional help, you can eliminate odors and enjoy a fresh, clean lawn all year long.
To learn more about professional turf cleaning services, contact us today for a free quote.
