Is It Safe to Pressure Wash Artificial Grass?

Seen the grime building up on your fake lawn and wondering if the pressure washer can sort it? You’re not alone. It might seem like a quick fix, but pressure washing artificial grass isn’t always a smart move. In this guide, we’ll explain when it’s safe, when it’s risky, and what to do instead to keep your lawn fresh – without damaging your turf or voiding your warranty.

Jump to:

• Is It Safe to Pressure Wash Artificial Grass?
• When You Shouldn’t Use a Pressure Washer
• How to Clean Artificial Grass the Right Way
• What If You Have To Use a Pressure Washer?
• Better Alternatives to Pressure Washing
• Artificial Grass Cleaning Machines
• FAQs About Pressure Washing Fake Grass

Is It Safe to Pressure Wash Artificial Grass?

Technically, yes – but only under certain conditions. Pressure washing fake grass can be risky if the turf contains infill or was laid over a soft base like soil or sand. Even a mid-powered jet can lift seams or flatten fibres if you’re not careful. We’ve seen too many well-meaning DIY jobs go wrong with one overzealous blast.

If your turf doesn’t use infill and has been installed on a hard base like concrete, you can get away with a pressure washer – but you’ll still need to be smart about how you use it. We’ll show you how further down.

When You Shouldn’t Use a Pressure Washer

If any of these apply to your lawn, leave the pressure washer in the shed:

• 🟩 Installed with infill (sand, rubber, Envirofill)
• 🟩 Laid directly onto compacted soil or sand
• 🟩 Has visible joins or seam-heavy areas
• 🟩 Made from cheaper domestic turf types

How to Clean Artificial Grass the Right Way

Regular cleaning doesn’t require high-pressure force. Here’s what works best:

✅ Read our full Artificial Grass Maintenance Guide for step-by-step care advice.

What If You Have To Use a Pressure Washer?

If it’s your only option, take these precautions to avoid turf damage:

• ✅ Use a wide-angle tip (never pinpoint or turbo)
• ✅ Keep the wand at least 12 inches above the surface
• ✅ Spray at a low angle to avoid direct downward pressure
• ✅ Avoid pet toilet areas (odour can sit deep in the underlay)

Better Alternatives to Pressure Washing

You don’t need a jet washer to keep your lawn looking new. Try these safer options:

• 🧹 Power brushing to revive flattened areas
• 🚿 Hose + enzyme cleaner to banish odours
• 💼 Book a professional clean once a year for a full refresh

“You can revive a tired-looking lawn with the right kit – no jet washer needed.”

Artificial Grass Cleaning Machines

Wondering if there’s a tool that makes lawn cleaning easier? Alongside power brushes, there are specialist artificial grass cleaning machines designed to lift debris, decompact fibres, and even wash and disinfect turf.

• 🧹 Artificial grass sweepers/hoovers – collect leaves and dust without damaging fibres.
• ⚡ Electric turf sweepers – battery-powered models for quick garden cleans.
• 💨 Power broom systems – combine brushing with light suction for deep refreshes.

If you’d rather not invest in a machine, our maintenance service brings professional-grade kit to your lawn for a one-off or annual clean.

FAQs About Pressure Washing Fake Grass

Still unsure? Here are some quick answers to common questions:

• • Can I pressure wash my turf? Only if you’re sure it has no infill and a solid base.
  • What PSI is safe? Stick to 1500 PSI or lower with a wide fan tip.
  • Will it remove dog smells? Not reliably – use a turf-safe enzyme cleaner instead.
  • Can it lift seams? Yes – especially if sprayed directly or too closely.
  • Can I hire a pro to clean it? Yes – and we recommend it. See our maintenance service here.
  • Can you jet wash Astroturf? Yes, but the same risks apply as with fake grass – use low pressure and avoid infill lawns.
  • What’s the safest way to clean artificial grass? Regular brushing, rinsing with a hose, and using turf enzyme cleaners for pet odours are the safest methods.
  • Are there machines that clean fake grass? Yes – electric sweepers, power brooms, and specialist turf cleaners are available, or you can book a professional service.