The Complete Guide to
Pet-Friendly Artificial Turf

Sublime Pools Blog
November 6, 2022
Sublime Pools

Pool Renovation

If you’ve been considering artificial turf for your home but have been concerned about its pet-friendliness, this guide is for you.

While artificial turf has been a popular choice for years for those with pets, there has been some debate about its safety.

Can you trust that your pet will be okay if they eat some of the turf materials? Are there any chemicals used in artificial turf that could be harmful to your pet?

Plus, many homeowners and business owners wonder if pet urine will cause problems with artificial turf. We’re here to set the record straight and give you all the information you need to make an informed decision about installing synthetic turf, even if you have pets.

Here’s what we’ll cover:

A Primer on Artificial Turf
The Benefits of Artificial Turf for Pet Owners
Is Artificial Turf Safe for Pets? Debunking Common Myths
Is There A Difference Between Pet-Friendly Artificial Turf and Regular Artificial Turf?

A Primer on Artificial Turf

Before we look at the pet-related benefits of artificial turf, let’s quickly cover some basics. Artificial turf is a synthetic surface that looks and feels like natural grass. It’s usually made from polyethylene, polypropylene, or nylon.

Artificial turf has been around for decades, but it has become increasingly popular in recent years. Homeowners and business owners are choosing synthetic turf for various reasons, including its low maintenance requirements, ability to withstand heavy foot traffic, and resistance to pests and weeds.

Artificial turn offers a variety of benefits, but one of the most appealing is that it doesn’t require watering, mowing, or fertilizing, which can save you time and money.

The Benefits of Artificial Turf for Pet Owners

But what about the benefits of artificial turf specifically for pet owners? Here are a few reasons why artificial turf can be an excellent choice for those with pets:

1. Artificial turf is easy to clean.

If you’ve ever had a natural grass lawn, you know that it can be challenging to keep it clean, especially if you have pets. Animal waste can quickly turn a green lawn brown, and bare spots are common.

With artificial turf, there’s no need to worry about animal waste ruining your lawn. All you need to do is pick up the waste and hose down the area. You may even want to invest in a pet-specific turf cleaner to ensure your lawn looks its best.

2. Artificial turf doesn't attract pests.

Another common problem with natural grass lawns is that they can attract pests, like fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes. These pests not only make your lawn less enjoyable to be in, but they can also pose a serious health risk to you and your family, particularly if you have young children or pets.

Artificial turf is made from synthetic materials that pests are not attracted to. As a result, you can rest assured knowing that your lawn is safe from these unwanted visitors.

3. Artificial turf is comfortable for your pet.

If you’ve ever watched your dog play on natural grass, they can sometimes have difficulty getting comfortable. They may lie down only to find a rock or twig underneath them. They may start to dig because the ground is too hard.

With artificial turf, your pet will always be comfortable. The turf is soft and springy, making it perfect for naps and playtime.

Is Artificial Turf Safe for Pets?

As you can see, the benefits of artificial turf are numerous, but you may still have some concerns about its safety, particularly when it comes to your pets.

Let’s debunk some of the most common myths about artificial turf and pets:

Myth 1: Artificial turf is made with harmful chemicals.

This is one of the most common concerns about artificial turf. However, it’s important to note that the vast majority of artificial turf on the market today is made from safe, non-toxic materials.

Today’s artificial turf is lead-free and free of harmful chemicals like mercury, cadmium, and chromium. In fact, most artificial turf is actually safer for your pets than natural grass, which can contain harmful pesticides and fertilizers.

Should your pet ingest any of the synthetic grass blades, there is no cause for concern. The blades are made from safe, non-toxic materials and will not cause any harm if ingested.

Myth 2: Artificial turf is hot and uncomfortable.

Another common concern about artificial turf is that it will be hot and uncomfortable for your pet to lie on. However, this is not the case.

Most artificial turf is made from a synthetic material called polyethylene, which is actually cooler than natural grass. In fact, many pet owners find that their pets are more comfortable on artificial turf because it doesn’t retain heat as natural grass does.

So if you are worried that Fido will be too hot on those summer days, rest assured knowing that he will be just as comfortable on artificial turf as he would be on natural grass.

Myth 3: Artificial turf will hurt my pet's feet.

This is another common concern about artificial turf, but it’s important to note that most artificial turf is actually softer than natural grass. This is because the turf is made from synthetic materials that are designed to be gentle on your pet’s feet.

In fact, many vets actually recommend artificial turf for pets who suffer from joint pain or other health conditions that make it difficult for them to walk on natural grass. This can help to make your pet more comfortable and improve its quality of life.

Myth 4: My pet will get an infection from artificial turf.

Can pets get infections from turf that has been peed on?

Pets can get infections from any surface, whether artificial turf, concrete, or natural grass. The key to preventing infection is to keep the area clean.

If you have an artificial turf lawn, be sure to clean up your pet’s waste promptly. You should also disinfect the area regularly to kill any bacteria that may be present.

Myth 5: Artificial turf is bad for the environment.

Many people worry that artificial turf is bad for the environment, but this is not the case. In fact, artificial turf can actually be better for the environment than natural grass.

This is because artificial turf does not require the use of harmful pesticides and fertilizers. It also doesn’t need to be mowed, which means there are no emissions from lawn mowers.

In addition, artificial turf can actually help to conserve water. This is because it doesn’t need to be watered as often as natural grass does. This can save a significant amount of water each year, which is good for the environment.

Is There A Difference Between Artificial Turf for Pets and Regular Artificial Turf?

The answer is no, there is no real difference between artificial turf for pets and regular artificial turf. The main thing to keep in mind is that you will want to choose a turf that is made from safe, non-toxic materials.

The same materials that manufacturers use to make artificial turf for humans are what they use to make it for pets. So, if you are concerned about your pet’s safety, then you can rest assured knowing that the same high-quality standards apply.

There are a few things that you may want to keep in mind when choosing artificial turf for your pet, however:

1. Look for a turf that is made from durable materials.

Pets can be hard on artificial turf, so you will want to make sure that the turf you choose is made from durable materials. Polyethylene is a good choice because it is strong and can withstand a lot of wear and tear.

2. Choose a turf that is easy to clean.

Pets can make a mess, so you will want to choose a turf that is easy to clean. Polyethylene is a good choice because it is stain-resistant and easy to clean. Simply hose it down or wipe it with a damp cloth to remove any dirt or debris.

3. Choose a turf that is comfortable for your pet.

Pets need to be comfortable, so you will want to choose a soft and comfortable turf. Different types of turf have different levels of cushioning, so you will want to choose one that is right for your pet. You may select a turf with shorter blades if you want a turf that looks more like natural grass.

4. Choose a turf that is easy to install.

Installing artificial turf can be tricky, so you will want to ensure that the turf you choose is easy to install. Many types of turf come in tiles or rolls that can be laid down like carpet. Others come in larger pieces that need to be cut to fit your space.

How to Get Started with Artificial Turf that is Safe for Pets

Now that you know more about artificial turf and how it can be safe for pets, you are probably wondering how to get started. The first step is to find a reputable dealer who sells high-quality artificial turf.

Once you have found a dealer, you will need to measure the area where you want to install the turf. This will help you determine how much turf you need to purchase.

After you have measured the area, you will need to choose the type of turf that you want. There are many different types of turf available, including:

Polyethylene turf: This turf is made from polyethylene, a strong and durable material. It is also easy to clean and maintain.

Nylon turf: This turf is made from nylon, a softer material. It is also easy to clean and maintain, but doesn’t have the same durability as polyethylene.

Olefin turf: This turf is made from olefin, a synthetic fiber. Similar to nylon, it offers great hold and durability.

Polypropylene turf: This turf is made from polypropylene, a synthetic fiber. It is very durable and easy to clean but doesn’t have the same cushioning as nylon.

The different types of turf have different prices, so you will need to decide which type of turf is right for you. You can also find discounts on artificial turf if you buy in bulk.

Once you have decided which type of turf is right for you, the next step is to install it. Installing artificial turf is not difficult but is not something most homeowners should attempt on their own.

If you are not comfortable installing artificial turf, then you should hire a professional to do it for you. Hiring a professional is the best way to ensure that your artificial turf is installed correctly and will last for many years.

Trust the Experts at Sublime Pools & Spa!

When it comes to artificial turf, there is no one better to trust than the experts at Sublime Pools. As the area’s trusted source for artificial turf, we have the experience and knowledge to help you choose the right type of turf for your home.

We also offer a variety of financing options to make sure that you can afford the artificial turf that you need. Contact us today to learn more about our financing options or to schedule a free consultation.