Myth vs. fact: the essentials

• Myth: Artificial grass is full of harmful chemicals.
• Fact: Quality products in the UK are manufactured to strict EU/UK standards, including REACH compliance for chemicals and EN 71-3 (toy safety) for heavy metals migration. Reputable installers will provide documentation.
• Myth: Kids will overheat on artificial grass.
• Fact: Like any dark surface, turf can warm in direct sun, but pile colour, density and infill choice affect surface temperature. Shade sails, light hosing, and choosing lighter, cooler yarns mitigate heat on peak days.
• Myth: It triggers allergies.
• Fact: For many children, artificial lawns reduce exposure to grass pollen and soil moulds, potentially easing hay fever. If your child is sensitive to latex or specific plastics, ask for material data sheets and latex‑free backings.
• Myth: It’s slippery and unsafe for play.
• Fact: Correctly installed turf with proper infill provides stable footing. For climbing frames and swing sets, you can add shock‑pad underlay to meet recognised fall protection standards.

What safety standards should UK parents look for?

• EN 71-3 (Toy Safety – Migration of Certain Elements) Indicates materials do not release unsafe levels of heavy metals. Many child‑safe artificial grasses are tested against this as an extra assurance.
• REACH Compliance (EU/UK) Ensures restricted chemicals and substances of very high concern (SVHCs) are controlled. Ask your installer for REACH statements from the manufacturer.
• HIC/Critical Fall Height (Play Surfaces) For play zones, a shock‑pad system can be specified to meet Head Injury Criterion performance at target fall heights. Your installer should provide test data for the pad/turf build‑up.
• Fire Behaviour Certifications Look for documentation showing compliance with relevant fire performance classifications for landscaping applications.

Consumer Grass can supply product safety data sheets, REACH/EN 71‑3 evidence (where applicable), and fall‑protection specs for family play areas.

Materials and infill: what matters for kids

• Yarn type: Polyethylene fibres are soft, skin‑friendly and durable. Look for low‑sheen, lead‑free pigments with UV stabilisers to prevent fibre breakdown.
• Backing: Prefer latex‑free options if your child has latex sensitivities; ensure permeable backing for drainage and easy cleaning.
• Infill: For family gardens, coated silica sand is common, inert and non‑toxic. Avoid crumb rubber in domestic play spaces; it’s typically unnecessary for residential lawns.
• Adhesives and joining tapes: Professional, low‑VOC, exterior‑grade adhesives reduce odours and off‑gassing risk. Proper curing time is essential before play.

Hygiene, pets and cleaning

A major benefit for families is hygiene control. With a permeable base and backing, liquids drain through, and the surface can be rinsed.

• Best practice:
• • Promptly remove organic debris (leaves, food) to discourage bacteria.
  • Rinse pet areas; consider enzyme cleaners formulated for artificial turf.
  • Light brush to lift fibres and keep the surface free‑draining.
  • Schedule an annual pro clean for deep freshness if the lawn is heavily used.
• Allergies and sensitivities
  • Pollen: Artificial lawns can reduce exposure to grass pollen, supporting hay fever management during peak seasons.
  • Moulds: Good drainage and regular cleaning limit mould/mildew compared with waterlogged natural turf.
  • Contact sensitivities: If your child has known sensitivities, request the product’s material safety and EN 71‑3 documentation, and consider patch‑testing contact areas.
• Heat and comfort tips
  • Choose lighter, cooler yarn hues and lower pile density for sunnier gardens.
  • Use shade (sails, pergolas) over play equipment.
  • Hose the surface briefly on very hot days to cool before barefoot play.
• Slip, trips and falls Safety is largely about baseworks:
  • Sub‑base: A well‑compacted, free‑draining base prevents dips and ripples that could trip active kids.
  • Shock‑pad: Where equipment is installed, specify a pad system tested for your equipment’s fall height.
  • Edging: Secure, flush edging reduces snag points for little feet and toy wheels.
• Environmental considerations parents ask about
  • Microplastics: Quality yarns with UV stabilisers shed minimally under normal use. Regular brushing and keeping the surface clean reduces abrasion. Choosing dense, durable fibres extends lifespan and reduces waste.
  • End of life: Ask about recyclable turf options and installer take‑back or recycling schemes. Extending product life via proper installation and care is the greenest first step.
  • Water and chemicals: Artificial lawns eliminate pesticides and fertilisers, reduce watering, and can be cleaned with mild, kid‑safe products.
• Choosing a child‑safe artificial lawn: quick checklist
  • Documentation: REACH statement, EN 71‑3 test where applicable, fire behaviour info.
  • Build spec: Permeable sub‑base, pet/child‑friendly infill, low‑VOC adhesive, shock‑pad for play zones.
  • Product quality: UV‑stabilised, lead‑free pigments, soft polyethylene yarns.
  • Installer standards: Evidence of base preparation practice, drainage design, and aftercare guidance.
  • Aftercare: Cleaning schedule, recommended products, and maintenance visits if needed.