Expert Guide: How to Help Artificial Grass Survive (and Thrive) on a Balcony

Balconies across Perth are going green — but not with high-maintenance plants or water-hungry lawns. 

More and more homeowners are transforming these urban pockets into lush, relaxing escapes using artificial grass. The appeal lies in its neat appearance, soft texture underfoot, and zero need for mowing.

Yet to keep that fresh look intact, even synthetic turf deserves a little routine care.

Whether recently installed or already in place, knowing how to maintain synthetic turf on a balcony can save both time and money.

Unlike gardens on the ground, elevated spaces introduce unique conditions — less drainage, wind-blown debris, or shadow-heavy corners.

Getting across simple maintenance habits helps extend the life of your investment while keeping it safe, clean, and looking vibrant.

Read on as we walk you through practical advice tailored for Perth conditions, including how to clean surface dust, manage stains, brush pile back into shape, and handle weather extremes. 

Artificial grass brings visual appeal to apartment balconies without the time-consuming tasks tied to traditional greenery.

In Perth, where intense sun and dry spells can quickly brown real lawns, synthetic turf offers a resilient, tidy alternative that keeps its colour and form with minimal input.

And since there’s no soil, weeds don’t sprout, which eliminates the need for herbicides or manual pulling. Balconies also collect far less organic debris than gardens, so surface cleaning becomes quicker and less frequent.

The flat base and smaller surface area mean there’s no need for edging or trimming, either.

Regular brushing helps the pile stay upright and natural-looking, even under outdoor furniture. With no mowing, fertilising, or watering, the only real tasks involve light rinsing and occasional spot cleaning.

Maintenance can take just a few minutes each week — yet the result is a consistently fresh, green surface year-round. Balcony turf is also ideal for renters or those with limited mobility, thanks to its ease of care and mess-free surface.

Overall, a synthetic grass balcony offers a “set-and-forget” solution with no seasonal workload spikes, unlike traditional outdoor spaces that require extra watering in summer or weeding after storms.

Choose Biodegradable Cleaning Products

When cleaning artificial turf, the runoff often flows directly into balcony drainage, and sometimes into shared systems. That’s why using biodegradable, non-toxic products is essential.

Opt for enzyme-based or pH-neutral cleaners to break down dirt, food, or pet mess without leaving harsh residues. These options are safe for children, pets, and surrounding surfaces.

Perth homeowners can find suitable turf-safe products at local eco stores or larger retailers like Bunnings. Look for Australian-certified brands that explicitly state “greywater safe” or “biodegradable” on the label.

Avoid bleach, ammonia, or alcohol-based sprays — they can degrade turf fibres and contaminate waterways.

Limit Water Use with Spot Cleaning

One of the core environmental benefits of synthetic grass is water conservation. Still, occasional rinsing is necessary to remove dust or odour, especially in warmer months.

Rather than spraying the entire balcony each time, target specific areas with a watering can or hand-held spray bottle. Spot cleaning reduces overall water use while still keeping the space clean.

If you’re using water from a rainwater tank, even better — that keeps your footprint lower while giving the turf a good refresh.

Keep Drains Clear to Prevent Build-Up

Clogged balcony drains can trap dirty water, leading to algae, mould, or foul smells. Make it a habit to check drain covers every few weeks and remove leaves or sediment that may have settled.

Doing so prevents overflow during storms and reduces the need for heavy chemical treatment down the track. You can also lift a corner of the turf seasonally to inspect for moisture build-up or bacterial patches forming underneath.

If present, a diluted white vinegar rinse can help sanitise the sublayer without harming the turf or the surrounding surface.

Low-Foot Traffic Balconies

For balconies used mainly for visual appeal or occasional relaxing, maintenance stays simple. A quick weekly sweep using a soft-bristle broom removes settled dust or leaves, especially after dry, windy days.

Monthly rinsing is usually enough to maintain colour and freshness.

Positioning outdoor furniture on flat feet or wide bases prevents impressions in the turf. If the fibres do flatten, brushing them against the grain restores their spring and appearance.

High-Foot Traffic and Entertaining Areas

Balconies that double as entertaining zones or everyday walkways need more frequent attention. Crumbs, shoe debris, or drink spills can build up quickly, especially around seating or barbecue zones.

Rinsing every 1–2 weeks and brushing twice a week helps maintain a clean, upright surface.

Use a hand-held vacuum or blower for quick clean-ups before guests arrive. Spot-clean any stains straight away to prevent them from setting, especially sauces, oils, or citrus.

Pet-Friendly Balconies

If the balcony is shared with furry companions, odour control becomes a top priority. Rinse any soiled patches immediately, then follow up with a turf-safe enzymatic cleaner designed for pet use.

These break down proteins without leaving artificial scents or sticky residues.

Brushing regularly prevents fur build-up, while enzyme treatments every fortnight (or more often in summer) keep smells at bay. Avoid using vinegar or baking soda near pets unless thoroughly rinsed, as both can irritate sensitive paws.

Adding a small synthetic grass deodoriser, such as a granule-based pet-safe formula, also helps between deeper cleans, particularly in hot or enclosed spaces.

Summer

Perth summers bring intense heat and strong UV exposure. While quality artificial turf is built to withstand it, high temperatures can still cause fibres to soften or flatten temporarily.

• Rinse turf in the early morning or evening to cool the surface.
• Brush more frequently to lift any sun-compressed fibres.
• Increase pet-related cleaning to prevent odour build-up in the heat.
• Use breathable balcony covers or portable shade to reduce UV impact.

Autumn

With leaves falling more often and winds picking up, autumn is ideal for clearing built-up debris and refreshing the turf’s look.

• Use a soft-bristle broom or blower to remove dry leaves without damaging fibres.
• Lift the turf corners to check for hidden debris or early mould patches.
• Apply a light turf deodoriser or cleaner before winter to reset the surface.

Winter

Although Perth winters are mild, moisture and shade can encourage moss or mildew, especially on balconies with limited sunlight.

• Ensure all drains are clear to avoid standing water.
• Rinse the surface less frequently but inspect for slippery spots or algae.
• Use diluted vinegar spray to sanitise if needed, especially under pots or furniture.
• Let the turf dry completely before brushing to avoid spreading any growth.

Spring

Spring offers the perfect opportunity to deep clean and recondition your turf after cooler months.

• Give the entire surface a thorough rinse and brush.
• Apply an enzyme-based cleaner if any areas smell musty or stale.
• Recheck drainage and reposition furniture to prevent wear in one spot.

Maintaining artificial grass on a Perth balcony is straightforward — no lawnmowers, no mud, no hassle. With just a bit of regular care, your outdoor space can stay clean, vibrant, and comfortable in every season.

Here’s a quick summary of what to remember:

• Weekly brushing helps keep fibres upright and looking natural.
• Rinsing and spot cleaning remove dirt, odour, and debris quickly.
• Pet-friendly routines ensure a hygienic surface, even with furry companions.
• Eco-safe products protect both your turf and the environment.
• Seasonal adjustments like shade in summer or drainage checks in winter extend turf life.

Whether your balcony is a quiet retreat or an active family zone, a little maintenance goes a long way in preserving its look and feel.

With over 6,000 happy customers and more than 25 years of experience, Evergreen Synthetic Grass offers trusted advice, premium Australian-made turf, and ongoing support tailored to every home.

Create a balcony that looks incredible, feels inviting, and stays low-maintenance all year round. Whether you’re planning a weekend DIY or considering a full installation, the team at Evergreen Synthetic Grass is here to help.

Get expert guidance, tailored product recommendations, and a FREE quote within 24 hours — no pressure, just practical advice from Perth’s most trusted name in synthetic turf.

Contact us online for a free quote or call (08) 9303 2130 to take the first step toward a greener, more effortless outdoor space.