The 10 Best Artificial Grass of 2024 – Unbiased Reviews & Buyer’s Guide

Green, lush grass without any work? It sounds too good to be true. But artificial grass makes it possible, and it’s growing more popular every year.

In 2021 alone, over 4 million homes and businesses in the US installed synthetic turf, marking a 35% increase from the year before. By 2025, the global artificial grass market is projected to exceed $7 billion.

With numbers like these, it’s clear that artificial grass is here to stay. The days of slaving away, mowing and watering grass every weekend are over. Artificial lawns provide the manicured look we love without the backbreaking maintenance. Just set it and enjoy realistic-looking grass at its peak bloom year-round.

As a recent artificial grass convert, I want to share everything I’ve learned. I spent months researching before finding the perfect turf for my yard. This guide will walk you through the pros and cons, important features to compare, proper installation, care tips, costs, and even common frequently asked questions. I’ll provide insider advice to help you shop smart.

Get ready to join the millions embracing easy, elegant grass and say goodbye to mowing for good. Let’s dive into  how to select the best artificial grass  and transform your outdoor space.

Best Overall

Petgrow Synthetic Artificial Grass Turf

Grass Height: 1.38″

Materials: Polyethylene and Polypropylene

Searching for artificial grass that mimics lush real grass? Look no further than Petgrow’s synthetic turf. I was thoroughly impressed by the meticulous craftsmanship of the 1.38″ blades – with slight variations in color, texture, and height, it appeared strikingly natural.

Laying this grass out was a cinch, thanks to the easy to follow instructions. Within minutes, I transformed my drab patio into a picturesque oasis that made my neighbor do a double take! The grass blades perfectly concealed the durable slip-resistant backing, leaving no hint that it was synthetic.

The soft polyethylene and polypropylene blades were a pleasure to walk on barefoot, lacking any itchiness or discomfort. Plus, the drainage holes quickly cleared away water, preventing any puddles after watering the plants.

My rambunctious Labrador retriever couldn’t get enough of this turf. He rolled around gleefully, treating it like real grass. The durable blades withstood his energetic romping and showed no signs of wear.

With apologies to Mother Nature, Petgrow’s artificial grass proved to be even better than the real deal. No need for mowing or maintenance – it stays persistently green and plush. The hassle-free installation and ideal softness earn this the top spot for the best overall artificial grass.

Best for Kids

Artificial Grass Wholesalers Premium Grass Turf

Grass Height: 2″

Materials: Polyethylene and Polypropylene

Searching for a durable grass that can handle rowdy backyard fun? Artificial Grass Wholesalers’ premium grass turf thrives under heavy activity. The 2″ extra thick blades felt sublimely soft under bare feet yet remained resilient against heavy foot traffic.

My playful young nephews had a blast using it as their personal soccer field. Despite their relentless kicking and trampling, the sturdy polyethylene and polypropylene blades showed negligible wear. The grippy PU backing kept the grass firmly in place without shifting or rippling.

Installation was seamless thanks to the user-friendly design. Unrolling the segments and joining them was smooth sailing – no messy infill required. The efficient drainage holes rapidly wicked away water, keeping the surface clean and mud-free post backyard water fights.

Whether you need turf for a play area, pet zone, or landscape accent, this kid and pet-friendly grass is up for the challenge. It strikes the perfect balance between plush softness and rugged durability. Give those energetic little feet something lush yet indestructible to play on!

Best for Dogs

Petgrow Ultrathick Artificial Grass Turf

Grass Height: 1.5 ”

Materials: Polyethylene and Polypropylene

Does your four-legged friend treat your lawn like their personal bathroom? Petgrow’s ultrathick artificial grass turf is here to save the day. My friend’s high-energy Australian Shepherd put this grass to the test, and it passed with flying colors.

The 1.5″ high-density blades felt sublimely soft and springy under paws, providing a comfortable surface for lounging or playtime. Even after repeated zoomies and dig sessions, it looked as flawless as the day I installed it.

The turf’s antimicrobial protection, along with ample drainage holes, kept urine odors and bacteria at bay. A quick rinse restored the grass to a fresh, smell-free state. No more yellow patches ruining the lawn!

With W-shaped blades and a natural-looking blend of tones, Petgrow’s turf was a hit with my pup. She happily nibbled, sniffed, and nestled into its realistic grassy texture. No toxic chemicals or prickly blades – just lush, pet-friendly softness.

Thanks to the durable latex backing, this grass stayed neatly in place without shifting. No more chasing stray pieces around the yard! If you’re seeking pet-proof perfection, this is the artificial turf for you.

Best for Balcony

iCustom Turf Rugs

Grass Height: 0.25 ”

Materials: Polypropylene

When your outdoor space is pint-sized, a high-quality turf rug brings nature to your doorstep. iCustom’s low-profile rugs are perfect for transforming tiny patios and balconies into urban oases.

The 0.25″ blade height blended seamlessly into my balcony flooring, lacking any awkward bulky seams. Despite the thin profile, the soft polyethylene fibers felt plush underfoot. Vibrant green hues transported me outdoors while still enjoying my morning coffee inside.

One of my favorite things about iCustom’s rugs is the bound edges. The finished trim gives it a polished, rug-like look that integrated beautifully into my living space. No more fraying or loose blades around the sides!

I appreciated the convenience of having a stain and fade-resistant rug that thrives outdoors. The occasional downpour didn’t faze this durable turf. Simply letting it air dry restored the fluffy texture.

For apartment dwellers with limited outdoor space, iCustom’s balcony-friendly rugs bring a touch of nature to your doorstep. Durable, low-profile, and hassle-free – it’s the perfect grassy accent for tiny spaces.

Best for Garden

SunVilla Realistic Artificial Grass Turf

Grass Height: 1.38″

Materials: Polyethylene and Polypropylene

If you seek an ultra-realistic grass that blends into garden beds, SunVilla’s meticulously crafted turf is a landscape lover’s dream. The naturalistic colors and varied blade textures capture nature’s essence in synthetic form.

Complementing the surrounding greenery and soil, SunVilla’s turf was a game changer for my garden. The 1.38″ blade height matched my real grass, providing a seamless transition between them. Even the finches and squirrels showed no favoritism, freely traipsing between the two.

Despite heavy rainfall, the superb drainage prevented waterlogging or erosion around my flowerbed edges. The dense UV-resistant polyethylene and polypropylene fibers stayed perky and vibrant through harsh sunlight and downpours.

Excited by its potential, I creatively placed strips strategically amidst garden beds to reduce weeding and create decorative accents. The result was a lush paradise awaiting exploration, minus the labor.

For gardens aiming for visual continuity, SunVilla’s ultra-realistic looking turf integrates masterfully with existing greenery. Create whimsical pathways, decorative shapes, or serene meditation circles peppered throughout your landscape.

Best Soft and Furry

Amdrebio Ultra Soft Grass Green Area Rug

Grass Height: 1.7 ”

Materials: Microfiber

Sometimes you crave a soft furry texture reminiscent of childhood blankies. Enter Amdrebio’s indulgently plush grass rug. The 1.7″ microfiber pile enveloped my feet in cloud-like softness – walking across it felt like a warm hug for my soles.

Beyond the sublime coziness, the grassy appearance integrated effortlessly into my sunroom decor. Vibrant green fibers conjured rolling hills and summer days. Matching the rug’s color to your paint or furniture helps it blend right in.

Installation was a cinch thanks to the grippy non-slip rubber backing. Despite my dogs’ zooming turns and playful tussles, the rug stayed firmly in place with no buckling or shifting.

One trade-off for the incredible softness is the higher maintenance. The fluffy pile showed traces of dirt, requiring frequent vacuuming to look its best. For high-traffic areas, an occasional deeper cleaning restored the lush texture.

If plush indulgence tops your priority list, sink your toes into Amdrebio’s cloud-like microfiber rug. Just be prepared to pamper it with frequent TLC to nurture its beauty.

Most Natural Looking

AYOHA Realistic Synthetic Grass

Grass Height: 1.38″

Materials: Polyethylene

Seeking ultra-natural elegance for your landscape? AYOHA’s lifelike synthetic grass mimics real grass so convincingly you’ll do a double take. The meticulous 4-tone blades boast slight variations in color and texture, capturing nature’s subtle imperfections.

Basking on this grass transported me to a charming countryside meadow. I almost forgot it was synthetic until I noticed the absence of itchiness and allergies. The soft 1.38″ pile cushioned bare feet with pure blissful comfort.

Despite being crushed under patio furniture for weeks, the grass rebounded to a perky state once the weight was removed. The color remained vibrantly lush through harsh UV exposure thanks to advanced UV resistance.

AYOHA’s back coating prevents leakages while allowing ample drainage during storms. Flowerbeds surrounding the grass flaunted happy blossoms thanks to the excellent drainage and airflow.

With irresistible softness, idyllic natural aesthetics, and durable UV resistance, this turf helped me create an urban Eden. Friends keep demanding I reveal my landscaper’s contact after seeing my grassy oasis. My lips are sealed – let’s keep this turf secret between us!

Best Non Slip

Ottomanson Fake Grass Rug

Grass Height: 0.3″

Materials: Polypropylene

Having a turf rug stay firmly put seems like an obvious expectation – but cheaper options often slide around frustratingly. Sore feet? Meet your new best friend, Ottomanson’s fake grass rug. The backside rubber dots grip tenaciously to prevent shifting.

Despite boisterous zooms from my German Shepherd, this grass rug wouldn’t budge. No more skidding rugs causing faceplants! The durable 0.3″ polypropylene fibers felt indulgently soft while resisting wear remarkably well.

Vibrant green hues evoked lush meadows to balance the sleek modern decor. Between the soothing color and welcoming texture, this rug enticed toes to immerse themselves in the plush fibers.

As an added bonus, cleanup was a cinch. The stain-resistant fibers released any muddy paw prints with a simple rinse. An occasional pass with the vacuum kept the vibrant color popping.

For slip-free stability and hassle-free maintenance, Ottomanson’s grass rug has you covered. Show your floors some love with the comfort of turf that stays put.

Most Durable

LITA Premium Artificial Grass Rug

Grass Height: 1.38″

Materials: Polyethylene and Polypropylene

If you seek indestructible resilience, LITA’s premium artificial turf is ready for your toughest tests. Built to thrive for over a decade of use, this rug withstood my two rambunctious Labradors with flying colors.

Made from high-density UV-resistant polyethylene and polypropylene, this turf revealed negligible wear despite endless zoomies, digs, and tussles. While cheaper turfs frayed or ripped eventually, LITA’s rug remains persistently flawless.

The lush 1.38″ pile perfectly balanced indulgent softness and brawny durability. My bare feet sunk into the welcoming blades, devoid of any poking or stiffness. Despite intense UV exposure, the rich green hues remained vivid.

Installing this rug was smoother than butter, thanks to the helpful instructions. Unrolling it and aligning the edges took mere minutes without finicky infill requirements.

While pricier than lower-quality turfs, LITA’s 10-year warranty and sumptuous softness justify the investment. When you crave decades of unblemished beauty, this rugged yet luxurious turf rug has your back.

Best Door Mat

Mayshine Non-Slip Door Mat

Grass Height: 1″

Materials: Polypropylene

Swap out your basic fabric doormat for an eco-friendly grassy upgrade. Mayshine’s door mat ushered me home with wooded whimsy. The springy grass blades scraped shoes efficiently while cradling feet in nature’s essence.

Despite heavy foot traffic, the sturdy synthetic blades resisted flattening or fraying. The color remained richly vibrant even when slathered with mud. The occasional rinse restored the plush grassy texture.

My favorite feature is the non-slip backing that gripped the floor adamantly. No more tripping over bunched-up mat edges! The durable 1″ pile withstood pounding rains and UV exposure while providing lush comfort.

Cutting the mat to size was effortless for fitting my narrow doorway. Just make sure to double check measurements first, as trimming it down is irreversible.

For the eco-friendly price of one mat, enjoy carefree entryway cleaning and the joy of toes wiggling in grassy bliss. A custom-fit green oasis greeting your feet after a long day? Yes, please!

Pros and Cons of Artificial Grass

Artificial grass offers many benefits compared to natural lawn:

Pros

• No mowing, watering, fertilizing required
• Stays green year-round regardless of weather
• Withstands heavy foot traffic with no wear and tear
• Environmentally friendly, reduces water usage
• Safe surface for kids and pets to play on
• Low maintenance, just occasional rinsing and brushing
• Long-lasting, can last 15-20 years or more

Cons

• Higher upfront installation cost
• Can get hot in direct sunlight on hot days
• Needs proper drainage system beneath it
• Regular removal of debris needed
• Not as soft underfoot as lush natural grass
• Limited options for amount of blade variation

Now that you know the main advantages and drawbacks, let’s go over what to consider when choosing your artificial turf.

Things to Consider When Buying Artificial Grass

Many factors come into play when deciding which artificial grass is right for your space. I’ll go through each key consideration here:

Climate and Weather

If you live in an area with extreme weather, look for artificial grass engineered to withstand it. Turf meant for hot climates will have technology to reduce heat absorption. Some products are suitable for cold climates and won’t crack in freezing temperatures.

Also, consider how much rain your area gets annually. Proper drainage under the turf is essential to prevent flooding. Opt for a permeable backing that allows drainage through the turf if puddling is a concern.

Amount of Traffic and Usage

Think about how much foot traffic the area will get, along with any other wear and tear. High traffic areas around pools or playsets need highly durable turf that can handle regular use. Look for a tall, dense pile height and infill that supports the blades.

For decorative lawns with occasional lounging, a low-pile turf will suffice. Sports fields need a turf able to bounce back from athletes’ cleats. Scale durability to how much action your space will see.

Size of Area to be Covered

Measure the square footage of where you plan to install artificial grass. Many products come in wide rolls for large areas or smaller tiles for tight spots. Make sure to get enough to cover your entire space with planning for seams and edges.

For intricate shapes or curved borders, customizable options like turf tiles offer more flexibility. Precise measurements help you purchase the right amount of artificial grass the first time.

Grass Fiber Material

The grass blades consist of synthetic fibers. Polyethylene is a common and more affordable option suitable for homes. For a softer feel, look for turf containing polyethylene and polypropylene blended together.

Nylon grass blades are very durable but also the most expensive. Check that the material can withstand your region’s climate. The fiber technology should be suited to how much traffic and weather exposure the turf will receive.

Infill Material

Infill provides stability for the grass blades and keeps them upright. It also lends support and shock absorption. The most common infill options are:

• Sand – Provides structure and stability at a budget price, but needs replacing over time.
• Rubber – Crumb rubber pellets made from recycled tires offer great durability and cushioning.
• Hybrid – A blend of sand and rubber offers balanced benefits.

Make sure to choose an infill suited for pets if you have them, as rubber can get hot. Infill also increases the turf’s weight, so factor this in for roof or balcony installations.

Pile Height

Pile height refers to the length of the synthetic grass blades. A thicker, longer pile provides a lush, natural look. But it also comes with increased cost, weight, and required infill. Consider these pile heights based on your needs:

• Low (1/2″ – 1″) – Ideal for decorative lawns or pet turf with artificial grass “potty patches.” Cheaper and easier to install but less realistic looking.
• Medium (1″ – 1.5″) – The most common for residential use. Provides a realistic look with moderate cost.
• High (1.5″ – 2.5″) – Best for heavy traffic areas and sports fields. Most durable and cushioned but also pricier.

Backing System

The backing is the foundation layer that the synthetic blades are attached to. It’s important for overall turf stability and drainage. Primary options include:

• Polypropylene – A permeable woven backing that allows drainage through the turf. Best for areas with drainage concerns.
• Latex – Offers firm stability and backing durability. Recommended for high traffic installations.
• Polyurethane – Extremely porous backing ideal for dry climates. Allows maximum drainage.

Factor in your climate and drainage situations when choosing the ideal backing system for your artificial grass.

Installation Tips

Proper installation is crucial for getting the full benefits and longevity from your artificial turf. Here are my top tips:

Order Samples First

Don’t select your artificial grass sight unseen! Request free samples from retailers first to see and feel the grass before fully committing. You want to ensure the look, texture, and color match what you envisioned.

Prepare the Base

The turf needs a smooth, compact base to be installed over. Remove any existing grass, plants or debris. Use a gravel and sand base for optimal stability and drainage. Compact it down fully before installing the turf.

Tools Needed

Have these supplies on hand for installation: tape measure, razor knife, shovel, rake, broom, landscape fabric, seam tape, glue/seam sealer. Use sharp razor blades to cut the turf for a precise fit.

DIY vs Professional Installation

DIY installation is doable for small areas under 100 sq ft. But I’d recommend hiring a professional installer for anything larger or complex. Their experience ensures proper base prep and execution.

Maintenance Tips

Artificial grass is low maintenance, but does require occasional care to look its best:

Rinsing and Brushing

Rinse blades to prevent buildup of dust, dirt and debris. Use a stiff brush to fluff and stand blades back up. Aim to rinse every 2-3 months.

Removal of Debris

Leaves, sticks and other debris should be cleared off the turf regularly. This prevents matting and ensures adequate drainage.

Repairing Damage

Small tears or gaps can be patched with turf seaming tape and glue. Larger sections may need replacing – retain extra turf from the installation for repairs.

Proper care goes a long way in maintaining the beauty of your artificial lawn for years!

Cost Breakdown

Here’s a look at what to budget for your new artificial grass installation:

Product Cost

The turf itself will likely be your biggest expense. Prices range from $2 – $7 per square foot based on factors like:

• Fiber technology
• Pile height
• Infill type
• Density and durability

Expect to spend $700 to $2,000+ for the average residential lawn. Get quotes from multiple vendors.

Additional Supplies

Factor in costs for:

• Base materials like gravel, sand, landscape fabric ($200-500)
• Seam tape, glue, fasteners ($50-150)
• Tools if needed (shovel, rake, etc.) ($50-200)

Professional Installation Cost

Hiring a pro averages $4 – $8 per square foot for preparation, installation and cleanup. For a 1,000 sq ft lawn, installation costs around $4,000 – $8,000.

The total for a new artificial lawn can range from $1,500 for smaller DIY projects up to $15,000+ for large professional installs. The investment pays off for years of enjoyment with zero maintenance!

The Best Artificial Grass for You

After testing these 10 top-rated artificial grass products, I discovered outstanding options for every usage and lifestyle. Though synthetic, the meticulous craftsmanship of the grass blades imparted pure comfort underfoot and convincingly realistic aesthetics.

Installation was smooth sailing, instantly upgrading patios, yards, balconies, and entryways with lush greenery. With artificial grass, you can surround yourself with the beauty of nature without the headaches of maintenance.

Which of these grass options resonated most with your needs?

Do you prefer pet-friendly durability, indulgent plushness, or photorealistic appearance?

Consider your priorities along with each product’s unique balance of softness, resilience, and realism. With this comprehensive guide highlighting the stand-out features of each artificial grass, you have all the knowledge to select your ideal match.

Go ahead – treat your feet to the joys of effortless backyard bliss! Your lush, grassy oasis awaits.

If you buy something on this page, we may get a small share of sale at no additional cost to you. We only recommend products that we have used ourselves and feel are really useful, not because of the limited compensation from the links through our posts.