Playground Artificial Grass Maintenance Tips
A routinely serviced artificial turf playground stays kid‑friendly. This guide breaks down simple short- and long-term maintenance actions — from debris removal and surface grooming to damage identification and repair — so your playground turf continues to welcome play without any interruptions!
PLAYGROUND TURF CARE “DO’S”
REGULAR CLEANING
GET RID OF LOOSE DEBRIS
Everyday debris removal prevents wear on artificial grass fibers. Use a leaf blower, gentle broom, soft rake, or your hands to remove leaves, sticks, and trash and keep the play area clean.
RINSE THE TURF
Every few weeks, spray the turf with a garden hose to wash away dust, pollen, and spills. Moderate water pressure washes away contaminants without shifting the infill.
INSPECT INFILL LEVELS
Infill cushions falls and keeps the blades standing. Look across different usage areas. If the surface feels hard or uneven, add the recommended infill to restore performance.
INSPECTION & REPAIR
MONTHLY WALK‑THROUGH
Watch for issues in seams and edges and infill. Small repairs now save big replacements later.
PATCH MINOR DAMAGE
Any cut or hole larger than ½ inch can lead to bigger damage. Patch these right away with the supplied turf repair kit as soon as you notice damage.
SEASONAL MAINTENANCE
SPRING CARE
Tidy up after winter and inspect for freeze-related wear. Lightly brush fibers against the grain to restore shape.
SUMMER CARE
Warm days may overheat the surface. Wet the turf surface occasionally to cool it down and keep play comfortable.
FALL CARE
Clean away autumn debris to stop matting. Check and adjust the infill if fibers appear flattened after heavy summer playtime.
WINTER CARE
Use a plastic‑tined shovel or soft broom for snow removal. Let ice melt naturally — chemical de-icer and sharp metal tools can do serious damage to the fibers.
REMOVE WEEDS, PESTS, AND STAINS
WEED PREVENTION
Weeds can grow around the edges. Check the perimeter regularly and remove any growth before roots take hold.
PEST CONTROL
Creepy crawlies may tunnel under the surface. Apply a non-toxic repellent around the perimeter to limit infestation.
STAIN AND SPILL CLEANUP
Kids make messes. Wipe up food or drink spills with mild detergent and water to avoid permanent discoloration.
DON’TS FOR PLAYGROUND TURF MAINTENANCE
HEAVY LOADS
Avoid placing heavy play equipment, picnic tables, or grills directly on the turf. Use load-distributing pads if you must put something heavy on the grass.
SHARP OBJECTS
Never use sharp metal tools lor equipment. These can cut the turf fibers, leading to excessive wear.
HARSH CHEMICALS
Skip bleach, solvents, and strong cleaners. They can destroy the turf fibers and infill. Always choose approved turf care products.
TURF CARE FOR PETS
If pets visit your playground, remove waste right away and spray the spot. This stops bad smells and maintains a hygienic play space.
WHEN TO CALL THE PROS
While regular upkeep handles most needs, the Southwest Greens expert team is ready when you need them:
- Large Tears: Seams that curled, uneven or lost infill, or large rips and tears.
- Water Retention: Standing water after routine cleaning signals under surface issues.
- Warranty Support: Questions about warranty terms or authorized service visits.
A clean, cared‑for playground turf surface keeps kids safe and happy. Follow these simple tips, and you’ll enjoy a durable and kid-ready playground all year long. For professional deep‑cleaning, infill top‑off, or repairs, get in touch with your local Southwest Greens.
Want more details? Get the full playground maintenance manual here.