How do you stop dog wee smell on artificial grass?
One of the biggest questions people ask before installing artificial grass is whether it will smell if they have dogs.
The good news is that a good quality artificial lawn should not smell if it is installed properly and looked after. The key is making sure the lawn drains well, is cleaned regularly and uses the right infill.
At Lifestyle Lawns, we work with a lot of dog owners and know how important it is to have a backyard that still feels clean, tidy and fresh.
Why artificial grass can smell
Dog wee itself is not usually the problem. The smell tends to build up when urine sits in one area, especially in summer or if the lawn does not drain properly.
This is more common when:
The lawn has poor drainage underneath
Low-quality infill has been used
Dogs always wee in the same spot
The lawn has not been rinsed or cleaned for a long time
There is a build-up of hair, leaves or debris trapped in the grass
The lawn area is small and dogs use the same spot over and over again.
That is why the installation is just as important as the lawn itself.
The importance of good drainage
A properly installed artificial lawn should allow liquid to drain straight through.
At Lifestyle Lawns, we install lawns with a fully permeable backing and the right base preparation underneath, so urine does not sit on the surface. This helps reduce smells, keeps the lawn cleaner and makes it much easier to maintain.
Why we recommend Envirofill
One of the best ways to reduce dog wee smell is by using Envirofill.
Envirofill is an antibacterial infill designed to help reduce odour and bacteria within artificial grass. It is especially popular for homes with dogs because it helps keep the lawn smelling fresher for longer.
Unlike basic sand infill, Envirofill has antimicrobial properties and is designed to stop bacteria building up in the lawn.
It is one of the reasons many dog owners choose Lifestyle Lawns over standard artificial grass options.
Simple ways to keep your lawn fresh
Keeping your lawn smelling good does not need to be hard. A few simple habits can make a big difference.
Hose the area down regularly, especially in summer
Rinse any favourite toilet spots more often
Pick up dog waste quickly
Remove leaves and debris from the lawn
Use a pet-friendly artificial grass cleaner if needed
Occasionally brush the lawn to keep it looking fresh
If you have a small dog or a large section, you may only need to hose it down every couple of weeks. If you have multiple dogs using the same area every day, you may need to clean it more often.
What if there is already a smell?
If the lawn already smells, do not panic. Most smells can be improved with a good rinse, a pet safe cleaner and a bit of extra attention to the area your dog uses most.
For stubborn smells, we usually recommend:
A deep rinse with water
A pet-safe enzyme cleaner
Brushing the lawn afterwards
More regular cleaning during warmer months
Most of the time, once the lawn is rinsed and freshened up, the smell disappears quickly.
A backyard that works for dogs and families
Artificial grass can be a great option for dog owners. No mud through the house. No dead patches. No digging holes. Just a clean, tidy backyard that looks good all year round.
When installed properly and looked after, artificial grass can stay fresh, practical and dog-friendly for years to come.
At Lifestyle Lawns, we also offer Envirofill, New Zealand’s only antibacterial artificial grass infill, exclusively available through us. It is designed to help reduce odour, bacteria and heat, making it a great option for homes with dogs.
We can help you choose the right lawn and infill so your backyard stays clean, low-maintenance and ready for the whole family, dogs included.