D.I.Y. Artificial Grass in Canada

Dust, pollen and airborn pollutants

Rainfall is the best faux turf cleanser, as well as the cheapest! However, if you live in an area where rain is a rarity, a quick spray with a water hose can eliminate dust or pollen that may be present.

For lightly soiled areas, a basic mixture of warm water with a 5% solution of a mild household detergent can work wonders! Simply sponge mop the affected spot and then rinse.

For areas that are more heavily soiled, use the above procedure before then sponge mopping the area with a 3% solution of household ammonia in hot water. When this has been completed, rinse the area thoroughly with warm water.

Stains and other blemishes

The most important element to remember is promptness since it is infinitely easier to clean up a fresh spill than to remove a stubborn blemish once it has dried, hardened, and “set in.” Solid or paste-like deposits can be removed with a plastic table knife or spatula, while excess liquids can be blotted up with paper towels, a clean cloth, or a dry absorbent, such as kitty litter or fuller’s earth. Dry absorbents can then be swept or vacuumed up afterward.

SYNLawn’s synthetic grass fibers possess a high resistance to staining. However, it is still crucial to realize that they are only a single part of a multifaceted system that features various components that have been designed to offer optimal performance. In other words, while some cleaning agents are safe for the top fibers, these same products can also end up damaging the other components. Cleaning agents are consequently grouped into two sets, one of which can be used in liberal amounts directly on the turf surface, while the second should only be applied by rubbing a cloth lightly soaked in the cleaner, in order to minimize the saturation of potentially harmful agents below the turf’s top layer.

The first group of cleaners that can generally be applied without any special precautions, including the following:

• A bio-friendly cleaner. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
• A three (3) percent solution of ammonia in water may be used in lieu of household detergent for more stubborn stains.
• Do not use cleaners that contain chlorine bleaches or caustic cleaners (ph above 9) or highly acidic cleanses (ph below 5).
• Rinse area thoroughly with clean cold water to remove any traces of soap or ammonia.
  Blot up excessive liquid.
• A warm, mild solution of granular household detergent or any low sudsing detergent for fine fabrics. Use approximately one teaspoon to one pint of water. This will handle most waterborne stains including:
  

  – Coffee – Ketchup – Alcohol – Vegetable juices – Cola

  – Milk – Water colors – Cocoa – Latex paint – Ice Cream

  – Blood – Mustard – Urine – Glue – Dye

The second group of cleaners, an agent must be applied sparingly and care taken to avoid penetration beneath the turf. Mineral spirits or a grease spot remover like perchloroethylene (dry cleaning solution) of the type sold by most variety stores and supermarkets. In general, cleansers in this category should handle most oil-based stains including:

– Asphalt and tar – Chewing gum – Cooking oil – Shoe polish

– Floor wax – Lipstick – Motor oil & grease – Paraffin wax

– Ballpoint ink – Nail polish – Suntan oil – Crayon

Animal Waste

Although all SYNLawn® artificial lawn products are considered extremely pet-friendly, additional upkeep can help keep unfortunate pet waste-related odors to a minimum. Always allow solid waste to dry and then dispose of it. If regular rainfall is not common wherever you live, hose down the area on a habitual basis to promote the drainage of urine as well as to keep the surface hygienic and unsoiled. Depending on the number of pets you own, enzyme neutralizers can effectively limit and control odors. Neutralize with a homemade mixture of white distilled vinegar with an equal amount of water. After applying, wash thoroughly using a water hose.

Tree sap and chewing gum

Tree sap and chewing gum can be removed via freezing. Aerosol packs of refrigerant are available from the majority of carpet cleaning suppliers, or dry ice can be used instead. After freezing, carefully scrape the offending substance away with a knife.

fungus or mold spots

A 1% solution of hydrogen peroxide in water can be used on the affected area with a soft sponge. Afterward, methodically wash away with clean water.

Oil paints and more difficult stains

These types of stains may require the use of a commercial carpet cleaner, so it is best to discuss which particular products are best to utilize with your SYNLawn dealer.

periodic brushing

The regularity for brushing is directly related to the amount of foot traffic the area encounters. The matting of fibers may occur in high-foot-traffic areas, especially if they have become soiled with dirt or other airborne pollutants.

Periodic “cross brushing” of the turf can help restore its aesthetic appearance. “Cross brushing” means that all brushing activity takes place against the grain, nap, or sweep of the turf fibers. By brushing against the turf, the fibers are “fluffed up.” Always use a brush with synthetic bristles – never use a brush with metal or wire bristles because they can inadvertently damage the fibers.

It is worth noting that the matting of turf fibers within heavier trafficked areas might appear different than in spaces that do not see large amounts of traffic. Brushing these areas is highly recommended as it will guarantee your SYNLawn turf a much fuller life while also cutting down on future maintenance. Brush your artificial grass as often as needed, keeping in mind that the more traffic, the more frequent the brushing should be.

High traffic areas might include but are not limited to:

• Commercial Applications
• Multiple dogs
• Heavy play activity by children
• Paths in the yard that are traveled

do not abuse

Although your SYNLawn® brand turf is made of tough, durable fibers, certain precautions should be taken to prevent damage to the turf.

• Lighted cigarettes cannot ignite the turf, but they can damage the turf by fusing the tips of the fibers together. Cigarettes, fireworks, and open flames should be kept away from the turf.
  Furniture and equipment with sharp or jagged edges should not be placed on turf as this may puncture or tear the turf.
• Never leave a parked vehicle idling on the turf.
• Cap off or remove nearby sprinkler heads. Water from sprinkler systems can leave mineral deposits on turf that may cause discoloration.
• Make sure turf is not exposed to reflected sunlight windows as this may fuse the turf fibers together.

REPORT ANY ISSUE OR PROBLEM

Minor problems can become major problems quickly if not corrected. Any problem should be reported promptly to your local SYNLawn dealer.

CONCLUSION

The proper care and maintenance program can enhance the aging, usefulness, and aesthetics of your SYNLawn brand turf. Ask your local SYNLawn dealer about their low cost maintenance program*. (at participating locations only, may not be available in all areas)

SYNLawn makes no representation, guarantees or warranties, express or implied, regarding the information contained herein. Care and maintenance instructions are subject to change.