Non-infill artificial turf, without the protective layer of infill particles, is more exposed to direct staining. Substances like gum, oil, paint, and pet waste can adhere to the turf surface, and improper cleaning may cause discoloration, material corrosion, or shortened lifespan. To maintain both appearance and performance, stain removal must follow the principle of “identify the stain type first, then apply a gentle and targeted treatment.” Avoiding harsh chemicals or aggressive scrubbing is essential to protect the fibers and backing. This guide provides a detailed classification of common stains, step-by-step cleaning methods, tool recommendations, and introduces VivaTurf’s professional turf maintenance support services.
1. Sticky Residue: Gum, Adhesives — “Freeze and Peel Gently”
Gum and adhesives are among the toughest stains due to their strong adhesion. Rubbing them directly will only spread the residue. The key is to freeze, harden, and peel without damaging the turf fibers.
Tools and Materials: Food-grade dry ice spray or ice packs (wrapped in plastic to prevent moisture seepage), a rounded plastic scraper (2–3 mm thick), 75% medical alcohol, and a lint-free cloth.
Steps:
Freeze: Spray dry ice on the affected area for 5–10 seconds or apply an ice pack for 1–2 minutes until the gum hardens. Avoid over-freezing for more than 15 seconds to prevent fiber brittleness.
Peel: Hold the scraper at a 15° angle and gently lift from the edges toward the center. Re-freeze any remaining residue—never pull forcibly.
Clean Residue: Wipe with a soft cloth moistened in alcohol to dissolve residual gum, then dry the surface thoroughly.
Avoid: Using hot water, open flames, or industrial “adhesive removers” containing toluene or xylene, as they can deform or discolor the turf fibers.
2. Oily Stains: Cooking Oil, Sauces — “Absorb and Neutralize”
Oil-based stains form a film that traps dirt and bacteria. Removing excess oil before applying a neutral cleaner prevents yellowing and odor.
Tools and Materials: Oil-absorbent paper, food-grade diatomaceous earth, neutral detergent (1:50 dilution, pH 6–8), soft brush, and low-pressure sprayer.
Steps:
Absorb: Cover the area with absorbent material and press gently for 10–15 minutes. Do not step on the spot during absorption.
Clean: Spray diluted detergent evenly and let it sit for 3–5 minutes. Wipe small areas with a soft cloth or gently brush large stains along the fiber direction.
Rinse: Use clean water (pressure ≤3 MPa) to rinse and dry with a hairdryer on medium heat.
Case Example: A 2 m² oil spill on a community football field was completely removed using diatomaceous earth, detergent rinse, and drying, with no residue or discoloration observed after three days.
3. Pigment Stains: Paint, Markers, Watercolors — “Match Solvent to Stain Type”
Always distinguish between water-based and oil-based pigments before treatment.
Water-Based (Watercolors, Chalk, Food Dyes): Rinse with a low-pressure water jet at a 30° angle to the fibers. For dry chalk, brush lightly before rinsing. If faint residue remains, apply diluted neutral detergent, wipe, and rinse again.
Oil-Based (Markers, Spray Paint, Oil Paints): Test a non-corrosive solvent (such as turpentine or safe paint thinner) on an inconspicuous area first. Apply with a lint-free cloth in small sections (≤10×10 cm), wipe gently for 1–2 minutes, then clean with neutral detergent and rinse thoroughly.
Avoid: Acetone or strong thinners—they damage PE fiber molecular chains, leading to melting or cracking.
4. Biological Stains: Pet Waste, Food Residue — “Clean and Disinfect”
Pet waste and food debris not only stain but also attract bacteria and insects. Prompt removal and disinfection are vital.
For Solid Waste: Use a rounded plastic scoop to lift the waste gently, then wipe with alcohol-free wet wipes. Spray pet-safe disinfectant (1:100 dilution), let sit for 10 minutes, rinse, and dry.
For Urine and Food Residue: Absorb liquid immediately with a microfiber towel, apply neutral cleaner, and rinse. Handle remaining grease following the “Oily Stain” method, then disinfect.
Reminder: Ammonia in urine corrodes turf fibers and backing. If uncleaned for a week, yellowing or delamination may occur.
5. VivaTurf’s Professional Non-Infill Turf Care Solution
VivaTurf provides an integrated service system for non-infill turf stain removal—covering tools, training, and repair.
Customized Cleaning Kit: Includes PE-compatible neutral cleaner, 75% alcohol, pet disinfectant, three scraper sizes, dual-length brushes, microfiber towels, adjustable sprayer, and a step-by-step guide with illustrations.
Technical Guidance:
On-site Training: VivaTurf technicians demonstrate stain treatments such as gum freezing and oil neutralization, ensuring users master key techniques.
24/7 Online Support: Users can submit photos of complex stains (e.g., spray paint), and receive a customized plan within one hour.
Routine Inspections: Annual maintenance visits identify hidden stains or residues and provide deep cleaning to preserve turf quality.
Repair Warranty: VivaTurf offers a 5-year repair service for accidental damage during cleaning. Small repairs (≤1 m²) are completed on-site within 24 hours; larger areas are replaced with identical materials for seamless integration.
Smart Classification, Gentle Action, Lasting Protection
The key to maintaining non-infill turf cleanliness lies in accurate classification and mild treatment. Sticky residues respond best to freezing, oils to neutral detergents, pigments to selective solvents, and biological stains to cleaning with disinfection. Preventive care—such as prohibiting sticky foods on fields or inspecting pet zones regularly—can further reduce cleaning frequency. For users seeking convenience and assurance, VivaTurf’s all-in-one stain management system ensures your turf remains clean, safe, and durable, extending its service life with professional precision.