8 Common Myths About Artificial Grass Debunked

8 Common Myths About Artificial Grass Debunked

Matthew Wagner February 02nd, 2025

Artificial grass has come a long way thanks to decades of innovation and technology. Initially designed for sports fields, it has now become a popular solution for residential lawns, commercial spaces, creative indoor designs, and more. Yet, despite its growing popularity, outdated artificial grass myths and misconceptions still linger.

Myth 1: Artificial Grass Looks Fake

Many, many years ago, artificial grass had an unrealistic, bright-green appearance. It has since undergone a makeover, and nowadays, it boasts multi-toned fibers, varying blade lengths, and even natural-looking thatch layers that mimic the texture of real grass. The result is a lush, natural appearance that looks and feels like the real thing.

The Truth: Most modern artificial grass is so realistic that it’s often hard to tell the difference while staying vibrant and green year-round without the upkeep of natural grass.

Myth 2: Artificial Grass Isn’t Safe for Dogs

One of the most persistent myths is that artificial grass isn’t pet-friendly. In reality, modern artificial grass is specifically designed with pet safety in mind. It’s made from non-toxic materials, often with antimicrobial treatments that reduce bacteria and odors. Plus, efficient drainage systems can prevent puddles or messes from pet use.

The Truth: Modern artificial grass is pet-safe, durable, and easy to clean. It prevents muddy paws and odor buildup, making it an excellent choice for pet owners.

Myth 3: Artificial Grass Gets Too Hot

It’s true that older versions of artificial grass could get uncomfortably hot under direct sunlight. However, modern advancements—like SYNLawn’s HeatBlock™ technology which reflects sunlight rather than absorbing it, helping it stay cooler—have changed this. 

SYNLawn takes it a step further by incorporating fire-resistant properties for added safety in outdoor spaces.

The Truth: Modern artificial grass stays cool and comfortable, providing an enjoyable surface for outdoor activities, even during hot summer days.

Myth 4: Artificial Turf is Bad for Health

Concerns about artificial turf’s safety often stem from outdated materials used decades ago. Today, modern artificial grass is designed with health and safety in mind.

For instance, SYNLawn’s certifiably safe artificial grass combines sustainable, high-quality materials with advanced technologies like Super Yarn™, which blends antimicrobial, antistatic, and UV-resistant properties into the grass fibers. Combined with our Trionic Plus™ Technology, it reduces bacteria buildup, allergens, and overall wear and tear.  

The Truth: Modern, high-quality artificial grass is rigorously tested, non-toxic, and hypoallergenic. It’s clean, safe, and perfect for families, pets, and play areas.

Myth 5: Artificial Grass Harms Soil and Plant Life

Some worry that artificial grass suffocates the soil beneath it. In reality, proper installation includes a breathable subbase that allows water and airflow. Artificial grass can even help protect the ground by preventing weed growth and reducing the need for herbicides.

The Truth: When installed correctly, artificial grass preserves the soil and provides a clean, low-maintenance alternative to natural lawns.

Myth 6: Artificial Grass Has Poor Drainage

Older artificial grass systems sometimes struggled with water pooling, leading to concerns about poor drainage. Modern artificial grass features perforated backings that allow water to pass through efficiently. 

For instance, SYNLawn’s SuperDrain+™ technology provides a consistent drainage system that quickly channels water away from the turf—even during heavy rainfall or after pet use.

The Truth: Today’s artificial grass—especially when enhanced with technologies like SYNLawn’s SuperDrain+™—offers excellent drainage, preventing puddles and keeping the surface usable in all weather conditions.

Myth 7: Artificial Grass is Not Sustainable

Some immediately assume that artificial grass is more harmful to the environment compared to natural grass, but when you consider the full picture, it can actually be a sustainable choice. Artificial grass eliminates the need for watering, lawn chemicals, and gas-powered mowers, all of which harm the environment. Many modern turf products are also made with plant-based materials and can be recycled at the end of their lifespan. 

For example, SYNLawn’s turf products feature our EnviroLoc+™ Backing System, an environmentally friendly, soy-based technology that enhances turf fiber durability, reduces allergens, and minimizes environmental impact by replacing petroleum-based components with sustainable soybean oil.

The Truth: Sustainable artificial grass reduces water consumption, eliminates the need for harmful lawn chemicals, and significantly lowers emissions from lawn care, offering a greener, long-term alternative.

Myth 8: Artificial Grass Is Too Expensive

Artificial grass does have a higher upfront cost compared to natural grass, which can make it seem like the more expensive option. However, maintaining a natural lawn comes with ongoing costs for water, fertilizers, pesticides, mowing, and seasonal reseeding. These recurring expenses add up over time, making natural grass more costly than it initially appears.

Modern artificial grass offers a long-term investment that significantly reduces maintenance costs. While the initial installation may be higher, artificial grass requires minimal upkeep and helps save on water bills, lawn care, and maintenance.

The Truth: Artificial grass is a cost-effective investment. When you factor in the savings on water, lawn care, and maintenance, it can provide excellent value while keeping your outdoor spaces green and beautiful year-round.

Bringing Innovation to Landscaping

Through decades of innovation, backed by science and a focus on sustainability, artificial grass has become a safe, practical, and aesthetically pleasing alternative to natural grass.

Modern designs address concerns like pet safety, water conservation, and environmental impact with precision and care, proving that the old misconceptions about artificial grass no longer hold up.

Matthew Wagner
SYNLawn Brand Manager