How to Maintain Artificial Grass: Care, Cleaning & Fading Guide

Artificial grass is sold as low-maintenance — and it is, compared to natural lawn. But "low-maintenance" doesn't mean "no maintenance." A few simple habits will keep your synthetic lawn looking sharp and extend its lifespan well beyond the expected 10–15 years.

This guide covers everything: regular cleaning, UV fading, chemical damage, and what to do when things go wrong

Does Artificial Grass Fade?

The short answer: yes, but minimally and only if you buy the wrong product.

Prolonged UV exposure is the main cause of colour loss in synthetic grass. In strong Australian sun (particularly in summer, when UV index regularly hits 11+ in Victoria), lower-quality artificial turf can visibly lighten over time.

High-quality artificial grass such as Amazing Turf is manufactured with UV resistant materials. This slows the breakdown of pigment caused by UV radiation, keeping the colour consistent for years.

What to expect:

- Well-made, UV-stabilised turf: Very slight, gradual lightening over 10+ years which is barely visible

- Mid-range or unbranded turf: More noticeable fading within 3–5 years, particularly in full sun

- Poor-quality turf: Can show fading within 12–18 months

UV stabilisers are a manufacturing process, not something you can add after installation. This is one of the strongest reasons to invest in a reputable product from the start.

5 Ways to Keep Your Artificial Grass Looking Its Best

1. Brush and rake regularly

Unlike natural grass, artificial turf can flatten from foot traffic, furniture, or just settling over time. Regular brushing lifts the pile and keeps your lawn looking even.

Brush and rake your artificial grass monthly or more often in high traffic areas using a stiff-bristled brush, fan rake or a dedicated synthetic turf broom ensuring that you brush against the grain of the pile (the direction the fibres lean) to stand them back up. Avoid using wire brushes or metal rakes as these can damage or pull the fibres

2. Remove leaves, debris, and pet waste promptly

Organic material left on artificial grass breaks down over time, creating an environment for moss, algae, and odour. In autumn, leaf build-up can be significant. Leaves and debris should be removed using a blower or plastic rake. Maintain weekly after heavy leaf fall; otherwise fortnightly.

Solid pet waste should be removed immediately whilst liquid waste should be rinsed with plain water. Use SmellBGone Premium Pet Infill as a replacement for kiln dried sand to reduce and neutralises urine odour.

3. Rinse with water

Rain does most of the work, but in dry periods or after heavy use, a rinse with the garden hose helps remove dust, pollen, and light soiling.

Run the hose over the whole surface for a few minutes. This also helps keep the turf cool in hot weather (artificial surfaces can heat up significantly in Australian summer sun).

4. Spot-clean spills and stains

Most spills clean up easily from quality synthetic grass:

• Liquid spills (drinks, mud): Blot with a cloth, then rinse with water
• Oily or greasy spills: Use a small amount of mild dish detergent, rinse thoroughly
• Chewing gum or hardened material: Freeze with an ice pack, then gently scrape, do not pull or cut the fibres

For stubborn stains, a specialist artificial grass cleaner is safer than household cleaners.

5. Keep chemicals off the turf

Artificial grass is essentially a manufactured fabric — any chemical that harms fabric can harm synthetic turf. This includes:

• Bleach and harsh household cleaners — this can cause discolouration and fibre breakdown
• Petroleum-based products (petrol, engine oil, BBQ grease) difficult to remove and can permanently stain
• Battery acid ; will degrade the fibres and backing

How Long Does Artificial Grass Last?

A quality artificial lawn from a reputable supplier lasts 10–15 years under normal residential conditions. Heavily used areas (pets, children, high foot traffic) may show more wear in localised spots.

The factors that affect lifespan most:

• Initial quality of the product — UV stabilisation, fibre density, backing quality
• installation method — properly prepared base prevents drainage issues and uneven wear
• Maintenance consistency — regular brushing and cleaning prevent compaction and debris build-up

Our Amazing Turf range is designed for Australian conditions — including UV intensity, temperature extremes, and high pet traffic.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will artificial grass fade in the sun?

High-quality, UV-stabilised artificial grass fades very minimally over many years. Cheap, unbranded turf can fade noticeably faster. If you're buying artificial grass for full-sun areas, UV stabilisation should be a non-negotiable feature — ask your supplier to confirm it.

Can I use a pressure washer on artificial grass?

Yes, cautiously. A low-pressure rinse is fine and can help dislodge debris from the pile. Avoid high-pressure settings aimed directly at the fibres, which can loosen the backing or damage the fibre roots. A standard garden hose is sufficient for most maintenance.

Does artificial grass get hot?

Yes, significantly. Synthetic fibres absorb and retain heat, and on a hot Melbourne summer day, surface temperatures can exceed 70°C. In high-use areas, a quick rinse with the hose brings temperatures down quickly. Some premium products such as Amazing Turfs Premium Plus range include heat-reduction technology reducing heat up to 20%.

Can I use a leaf blower on artificial grass?

Yes — leaf blowers are ideal for clearing light debris from synthetic turf. Keep the blower moving to avoid excessive airflow in one spot.

Is artificial grass safe for dogs?

Generally yes, but regular rinsing is important for hygiene. Enzyme-based pet deodorisers neutralise odour without damaging the fibres. Avoid bleach-based cleaners, which can discolour the grass.

Shop Artificial Grass at Daisy's

We supply artificial grass from Amazing Turf, the accessories needed for installation and the materials to build the sub layers underneath. Visit us at any of our locations across Melbourne and Geelong or click here to discover the Amazing Turf range and order online.