Skunks. Cute little things, but they are the last guests you want to entertain on your artificial turf! If something startles or annoys them – your kids, your dog, or something else – their natural response is to spray. They can launch that infamous spray as far as 10 feet, and as we all know the smell is beyond awful. What if it gets on your artificial turf? Is your lawn doomed to stink forever?
Thankfully, no. There are steps you can take to successfully clean and deodorize your artificial turf. But whichever remedy you choose, don’t wait!
Artificial turf for pets is already somewhat skunk-resistant
Among our many varieties of turf at Heavenly Greens, we offer products specially manufactured with pets in mind. Dogs, in particular, often use the grass as a potty zone, so pet-friendly turf is designed to drain away urine quickly and resist odors. If you’ve installed this type of turf, you’ll be ahead of the game if a skunk strikes. But you won’t be home free, so read on for remedies that can remove even exceptionally powerful skunk stink from your lawn.
Tomato juice really does work
The acid in tomato juice neutralizes the chemicals that cause skunk spray to smell. However, unless only a small part of your turf is affected, you’ll need a lot more tomato juice than you probably have on hand.
Humane Society to the rescue
Since dogs often get into unfortunate scuffles with skunks, the Humane Society promotes a home remedy you can use to clean your artificial turf as well as your pooch. Be sure to wear gloves and clothing that covers your arms and legs while you work.
Mix together:
- 1 quart of 3% hydrogen peroxide (the kind you can buy at the grocery store or pharmacy)
- 1 teaspoon liquid dish soap
- ¼ cup baking soda
Even faster? Simply mix vinegar and water.
Rub the solution gently throughout the affected area, then rinse thoroughly with fresh water. Allowing the solution to remain on the turf could cause damage, as peroxide is a type of bleach. Top-quality artificial turf is outstandingly resistant to fading and all sorts of stains, but bleach is one of the few exceptions if not washed away quickly. If you use this deodorizing cleaning solution to bathe your dog, be sure to rinse him really well, too.
Another warning: the peroxide/baking soda solution can actually explode if it isn’t used up when it’s fresh. Try to mix only as much as you’ll need, and immediately dispose of any leftovers, rather than storing it.
Commercial deodorizers are another option
Simple Green makes an effective outdoor deodorizer that is safe for kids and pets as well as your turf. You can also purchase a product called PE-51 that not only deodorizes your turf but leaves it smelling like fresh-mown grass. A nicer fragrance than eau de skunk any day.
Skunks aside, stuff happens
Chances are you’ll never have to deal with the aftermath of a startled skunk. But less atrocious mishaps can occur in the course of daily living. So while your artificial turf is built to last and to fend off problems, knowing how to keep it clean – or clean up an accidental mess -- will keep your lawn in top condition for many years to come.
And if something happens that seems beyond your ability to cope – or you want to give your artificial turf a more comprehensive professional tune-up, just give us a call. Our goal is to keep your turf looking green and heavenly for years to come.
