Is Artificial Grass Safe for Children and Pets?

For many UK homeowners, artificial grass has become the go-to choice for a beautiful, low-maintenance lawn. It stays lush and green all year round, requires no mowing, and drastically cuts down on gardening chores. But for parents and pet owners, the big question remains: Is artificial grass safe for children and pets?

At Landscapers Durham, we’ve worked with countless families who have made the switch. In this detailed guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know—from the materials used and health considerations to cleaning tips and extra safety measures—so you can make an informed decision for your home.

1. Safety of Materials Used in Artificial Grass

One of the first concerns many people have is whether artificial grass contains harmful chemicals. The good news is that modern, high-quality artificial grass is made from non-toxic, lead-free, and child-safe materials such as polyethene or polypropylene. These are commonly used in everyday household items like food containers and toys, meaning they’re safe for skin contact.

At Landscapers Durham, we only install products that meet strict UK safety standards, ensuring there are no dangerous additives or coatings that could harm your family or pets.

2. No Need for Harmful Chemicals

Natural lawns often require fertilisers, weed killers, and pesticides to stay healthy and green. While effective for plant care, these products can be harmful if ingested or absorbed through the skin—especially for children and pets who spend a lot of time outdoors.

Artificial grass eliminates this risk completely. It stays green without chemicals, so you don’t have to worry about little hands or paws coming into contact with toxic substances.

3. Soft, Cushioned, and Comfortable

Safety isn’t just about avoiding toxins—it’s also about preventing injuries. Artificial grass is designed with a soft, cushioned surface that makes it comfortable for play.

For extra protection, especially in play areas, nurseries, or pet runs, we can install a shock-absorbent underlay beneath the turf. This padding reduces the impact from trips and falls, making it ideal for children’s climbing frames or energetic dogs chasing toys.

4. Excellent Drainage for Hygiene

One common concern for pet owners is hygiene. Thankfully, artificial grass is designed with built-in drainage holes that allow rainwater and pet urine to pass through easily into the sub-base.

This prevents puddles, reduces muddy patches, and makes cleaning simple:

• For pet mess: Pick up solids, then rinse the area with water.

• For extra freshness: Use a mild, pet-safe disinfectant occasionally.

The result? A clean, dry surface that’s safe for both children and animals to use every day.

5. Allergy-Friendly Alternative

If your child or pet suffers from seasonal allergies, Landscapers Durham can make a huge difference. Since it doesn’t produce pollen, it helps reduce common allergy symptoms like sneezing, watery eyes, and skin irritation.

This makes it an excellent choice for families who want a safe outdoor space that can be enjoyed during peak pollen seasons without discomfort.

6. Durability Against Pets

Some pet owners worry about dogs digging or damaging the grass. High-quality artificial turf is tough, resilient, and designed to withstand heavy use from running, playing, and scratching.

While no product is completely indestructible, our installations at Landscapers Durham use pet-friendly turf options with extra-strong backing to ensure long-lasting performance.

7. Temperature Considerations

In the UK climate, artificial grass generally doesn’t get dangerously hot. On sunny days, it may feel warmer to the touch compared to natural grass, but this can be easily managed:

• Spray with water before playtime.

• Provide shaded areas for pets.

• Choose lighter-coloured turf, which stays cooler.

8. Maintenance for Ongoing Safety

Keeping artificial grass safe and hygienic requires minimal maintenance:

• Brush regularly to keep fibres upright and remove debris.

• Rinse after pet use to prevent odours.

• Check for damage and repair promptly to avoid trip hazards.

With these simple steps, your artificial lawn will stay safe, clean, and attractive for many years.

9. Environmental Considerations

While artificial grass is synthetic, it actually offers some eco-friendly benefits:

• No need for pesticides or fertilisers (reducing chemical runoff).

• No mowing (cutting fuel or electricity use).

• Less water consumption compared to natural lawns.

For families aiming to balance safety with sustainability, this is another reason it’s a solid choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can artificial grass cause allergies in children or pets?
No. Artificial turf does not produce pollen, making it an allergy-friendly option for sensitive family members.

Is it safe for babies and toddlers?
Yes. When made from certified, non-toxic materials, artificial grass is perfectly safe for young children to crawl and play on.

How do I clean it after pets use it?
Remove solid waste, rinse with water, and use a pet-friendly disinfectant if needed. The built-in drainage helps maintain hygiene.

Can pets damage it?
High-quality, pet-specific turf is resistant to wear and scratching. For dogs that like to dig, we can recommend reinforced options.

Does it get too hot in summer?
In typical UK weather, it’s safe. On very hot days, cooling it with water before use works perfectly.

Final Thought

Yes—artificial grass is safe for children and pets, provided you choose a high-quality, non-toxic product and have it professionally installed. It’s a hygienic, durable, and low-maintenance solution that gives your family more time to enjoy the garden without worrying about mud, pollen, or harmful chemicals. At Landscapers Durham, we specialise in family- and pet-friendly artificial grass installations that look stunning and last for years. Want to create a safe, beautiful garden for your loved ones? 01913 362203 Call Landscapers Durham today at 01913 362203 for a free, no-obligation quote.