Non-infill artificial turf, due to its open surface design without sand or rubber infill, is more prone to debris accumulation such as leaves, dust, and paper scraps. It may also be stained by chewing gum, oil, paint, or pet waste. Without timely and proper cleaning, these contaminants can lead to fiber flattening, bacterial growth, and reduced turf lifespan. Therefore, debris cleaning on non-infill turf must balance “effective removal” with “protection of turf fibers and backing”, avoiding excessive force or harsh chemicals. This guide classifies debris into different types, explains detailed cleaning procedures and tool selection, and introduces VivaTurf’s professional turf maintenance system to help users maintain long-lasting cleanliness and performance.
1. Light Everyday Debris: Frequent Cleaning to Prevent Build-up
Light materials such as leaves, dust, paper, and small stones are the most common forms of contamination on non-infill turf. Because of their frequent accumulation, these should be removed through light but regular cleaning.
(1) Leaves and Paper: “Blow and Sweep Combination”
Tools: Medium-power leaf blower (1200–1800W) with a wide nozzle (≥15cm diameter) and a soft nylon broom (bristle length 5–8cm). Avoid hard plastic or metal brushes.
Method: Blow debris in the direction of the turf pile toward the field edge. Then use a soft broom to gently sweep remaining bits. Frequency: once or twice weekly for landscape or home areas, once daily for sports fields or playgrounds.
VivaTurf Tip: During fall, increase cleaning frequency to once every 2–3 days. If leaves are damp, lightly mist the area (0.1L/m²) before blowing to loosen debris—this increases efficiency by 30%.
(2) Sand and Small Stones: “Rake and Vacuum Method”
Tools: Plastic turf rake (5–8mm tooth spacing), industrial vacuum (nozzle width 20–30cm, medium suction).
Method: Rake gently along the turf grain to lift embedded stones, then vacuum to collect them. Leaving sand or gravel can abrade the turf and backing, so daily cleaning is advised for sports fields.
2. Stubborn Stains: Targeted Treatment Without Damage
Stains such as gum, oil, paint, or pet waste cannot be cleaned with basic sweeping. They require specific methods based on their material type. The rule is: “Soften or dissolve first, then remove gently.”
(1) Chewing Gum and Adhesives: “Freeze and Peel”
Tools: Non-fluorinated freeze spray or food-grade dry ice spray, plastic scraper (2–3mm thick), and 75% alcohol wipes.
Method: Spray the area for 5–10 seconds until hardened, then gently peel with the scraper parallel to the turf. Remove remaining residue with alcohol and dry. Avoid heat or open flames, as they can deform turf fibers.
(2) Oil and Sauce: “Absorb and Neutralize”
Tools: Oil-absorbent paper or diatomaceous earth, neutral detergent (pH 6–8, diluted 1:50), and a soft cloth.
Method: Let the absorbent material sit for 10–15 minutes, then wipe with diluted detergent along the grain. Rinse with clean water and dry.
Example: A 2 m² oil spill on a community field was fully removed using diatomaceous earth and mild detergent with no discoloration after cleaning.
(3) Paint and Pigment: “Dissolve According to Type”
Water-based paints (watercolor, chalk): Rinse using low-pressure water (3–5 MPa) and soft brushing.
Oil-based paints (marker, spray paint): Apply a PE-safe thinner or turpentine using a lint-free cloth, wipe gently, then clean with neutral detergent and rinse thoroughly. Always test solvents on hidden turf edges before use.
(4) Pet Waste: “Clean and Disinfect”
Solid waste: Scoop with a plastic shovel, wipe residues, and rinse.
Liquid waste: Absorb with a towel, then spray a diluted pet disinfectant (1:100) and rinse after 10 minutes.
Daily inspection is recommended for pet areas to prevent ammonia corrosion and odor buildup.
3. Special Debris: Sharp or Heavy Objects Require Professional Handling
Glass shards, metal parts, and heavy debris not only endanger users but may also cause irreversible turf damage.
(1) Sharp Objects: “Inspect, Magnetize, Protect”
Tools: Flashlight, handheld magnet (5000–8000 Gauss), and thick rubber gloves (≥0.5mm).
Method: Use the flashlight to detect reflective glass fragments, and run the magnet across the surface to collect metal pieces. If debris penetrates the backing, carefully cut around it and patch with repair adhesive and replacement fibers.
(2) Heavy Objects: “Lift, Don’t Drag”
Tools: Small pushcart for lifting, surface pressure gauge for post-cleaning checks.
Method: Move branches, bricks, or debris using the cart—never drag them over the turf. After removal, inspect for backing dents or fiber flattening.
Warning: Do not drive heavy machinery over non-infill turf—one pass can cause permanent deformation and large-scale fiber breakage.
4. Cleaning Tools and Maintenance Frequency
Essential Tools List:
Light debris: Leaf blower, soft broom, rake, vacuum.
Stains: Neutral cleaner, plastic scraper, freeze spray, absorbent pads, soft cloth.
Special debris: Flashlight, magnet, gloves, pushcart, inspection tools.
Frequency Guidelines:
Home/landscape areas: Sweep 1–2 times weekly; remove stains within 24 hours; inspect for sharp debris daily.
Playgrounds/community zones: Sweep daily; clean stains immediately; inspect before daily use.
Sports fields: Sweep before and after each use; handle stains within 2 hours; inspect with magnet before play.
5. VivaTurf Non-Infill Turf Maintenance System
VivaTurf provides a comprehensive “Clean + Maintain + Repair” service for its non-infill turf systems.
(1) Custom Cleaning Kit: Includes a nylon soft broom, adjustable blower, plastic turf rake, PE-safe neutral detergent, and illustrated cleaning guide.
(2) Training and Support:
On-site Demonstration: VivaTurf technicians train users on safe cleaning methods.
24/7 Online Support: Users can upload photos of unusual debris or stains for instant assistance.
Regular Inspections: Twice a year, VivaTurf performs deep cleaning and checks for hidden debris like embedded sand or gravel.
(3) Damage Repair Guarantee: VivaTurf offers free small-area repairs (≤1 m²) within a 5-year warranty. Repairs are completed within 24 hours with no visible difference. Larger areas are replaced with matching materials for a seamless finish.
Classified Cleaning, Scientific Maintenance, Lasting Protection
Effective maintenance of non-infill turf relies on the principle of “clean by category, act lightly, and clean frequently.” Use the right tools and gentle techniques to handle different types of debris while protecting fibers and backing. Regular cleaning not only maintains appearance but also extends turf lifespan. For users lacking experience, choosing a brand like VivaTurf, which offers full maintenance support, ensures professional results and peace of mind. With the right care approach, keeping non-infill turf clean is efficient, safe, and effortless.