Artificial grass has surged in popularity in recent years, offering a lush, green lawn all year round with minimal effort.

But minimal doesn’t mean none. Just like anything else around the home, artificial turf benefits from regular care and cleaning to keep it looking its best, especially if you have kids, pets, or entertain frequently in your outdoor space.

Whether you’ve just had artificial grass installed or are considering this as an option for your garden, this complete guide on how to clean artificial grass will walk you through everything you need to know.

Why Clean Artificial Grass?

Artificial grass is low-maintenance, but it’s not maintenance-free. Over time, debris, dirt, leaves, and even moss or weeds can accumulate on the surface. If you have pets, you’ll also need to deal with the occasional mess and odour.

Regular cleaning not only keeps your turf looking great but also extends its lifespan, prevents drainage issues, and ensures it remains hygienic and safe to use.

General Maintenance: Weekly and Monthly Tasks

A simple routine goes a long way. Here are the basics:

• Weekly: Use a leaf blower, plastic rake, or stiff brush to remove leaves, twigs, and general debris. Brush the grass against the grain to keep the blades upright and bouncy.
• Monthly: Hose down the surface to wash away dust and pollen. This also helps keep the infill balanced and the lawn fresh.

If your garden sees light use, you may find that brushing and rinsing once a month is sufficient. However, more frequent care will be needed if your lawn is well-loved by pets and people.

How to Clean Artificial Grass If You Have Pets

One of the most common reasons for maintaining artificial grass is to manage pet waste. Thankfully, with the right approach, it’s easy to keep things clean and odour-free.

Solid Waste

• Pick up faeces as soon as possible using a bag or scoop.
• Rinse the area with a garden hose afterward.

Urine

• Pet urine drains through the turf, but it can leave behind smells.
• Spray the area regularly with a pet-safe enzymatic cleaner to neutralise odours. These are specially formulated to break down organic waste.
• Vinegar and water (1:1 ratio) is a natural alternative. Simply spray and rinse.

How Often?

• Daily/Weekly: Spot-clean pet areas daily if needed and do a thorough rinse 1–2 times a week depending on usage.
• Monthly: Deep clean with a pet-safe artificial grass cleaner for long-term freshness.

Look for cleaners labelled as non-toxic, biodegradable, and safe for children and animals.

Avoid anything with bleach or harsh chemicals, as these can damage the turf or harm your pets.

Seasonal Deep Cleaning

Every few months, particularly after winter or during pollen-heavy seasons, it’s a good idea to perform a deep clean.

Steps:

1. Remove debris: Clear leaves and organic matter.
2. Brush thoroughly: Use a stiff-bristled broom to revive flattened blades.
3. Apply turf cleaner: Use a dedicated artificial grass cleaner or diluted vinegar solution.
4. Rinse thoroughly: Use a hose with decent pressure to wash away all cleaner and loosened grime.
5. Check for weeds: Occasionally, weeds can grow through the drainage holes. Remove them manually and apply a water-based, pet-safe weed killer if needed.

How to Deal with Artificial Grass Stains and Spills

Spilt drinks, dropped food, or even DIY project mishaps can leave marks on your artificial grass. Here’s how to handle them:

• Water-based spills: Rinse with water.
• Sticky messes: Use a mild soap with warm water and a soft brush or cloth.
• Oil or grease: Dab (don’t rub!) with a cloth and use a diluted solution of washing-up liquid.
• Chewing gum or adhesives: Freeze with ice and gently scrape off with a plastic spatula.

Always test any cleaner on a small, hidden area before full application to make sure it won’t affect the colour or texture.

Preventative Care Tips

• Install a membrane: During installation, a weed membrane beneath your turf helps prevent invasive plants.
• Avoid reflective surfaces: Windows or mirrors that reflect sunlight can cause hot spots and melt the turf.
• Move heavy objects: If you use furniture on your lawn, rotate or move it occasionally to prevent flat patches.

A Long-Term Investment Worth Maintaining

Artificial grass offers the joy of a beautiful, green garden without the muddy footprints or mowing duties. With a little consistent care, it can last well over a decade, maintaining its vibrant colour and plush texture.

Regular cleaning not only boosts curb appeal but also makes your outdoor space more enjoyable and safer for your family and furry companions.

Ready to Refresh Your Garden?

If you’re considering installing artificial grass or upgrading your current lawn, it’s important to start with quality materials and expert guidance. At Sansums, we offer premium artificial grass solutions designed to stand up to real life — pets, parties, and all.

Learn more about our range, request a quote, or get expert advice on choosing and caring for your perfect patch of green.

Albion 40 artificial grass

Albion 40mm Thick | 38mm Pile
A popular 40mm grass at an unbeatable price!

Value 30 artificial grass

30mm Thick | 28mm Pile
The dense straight blades and curled base fibres come together to form a brilliantly soft and comfy grass.

Value 35 artificial grass

35mm Thick | 33mm Pile
With its thick 33mm pile and dense base fibres, this artificial grass has a soft, comfy and cushioned feel underfoot.

Value 40 artificial grass

40mm Thick | 38mm Pile
With a hardwearing 38mm grass pile height this grass is suitable for residential use, whether it be laid over soil, concrete or decking.

When it comes to exterior housing projects, gravel is an incredibly versatile and practical material.

Whether used for driveways, walkways, landscaping, or drainage, it offers a range of benefits that make it a popular choice for homeowners and builders alike.

At Sansums, we provide high-quality gravel to help you create stunning and functional outdoor spaces. In this blog, we’ll explore the various applications of gravel, its ease of maintenance, and how it improves drainage and sustainability around the home.

Uses of Gravel in Exterior Housing Projects

Driveways & Parking Areas
Gravel driveways provide a cost-effective and durable alternative to asphalt or concrete. They offer excellent traction, withstand heavy traffic, and can be easily replenished over time. Plus, they allow water to filter through, reducing puddles and runoff.

Pathways & Walkways
Gravel paths create charming and functional walkways that blend seamlessly into natural landscapes. Unlike solid surfaces, gravel paths prevent water buildup and can be easily reshaped or refreshed.

Garden Landscaping & Decorative Features
Gravel adds texture and contrast to garden beds, acting as a decorative mulch that helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. It can also be used around stepping stones, patios, and water features to enhance the aesthetic appeal of an outdoor space.

Drainage & Erosion Control
One of gravel’s key benefits is its permeability. It allows rainwater to seep into the ground rather than pooling on the surface, helping to prevent flooding and soil erosion. Many homeowners use gravel around their home’s foundation to improve drainage and protect their property from water damage.

Outdoor Seating Areas & Fire Pits
Gravel is an excellent choice for creating outdoor living spaces. It provides a stable yet flexible surface for patio furniture, fire pits, and seating areas. Unlike pavers or concrete, it adjusts to natural ground movement, reducing the risk of cracks.

Border Edging & Retaining Walls
Used as a border along flower beds or retaining walls, gravel helps define outdoor spaces while preventing soil displacement. It acts as a natural barrier that keeps garden areas tidy and structured.

Ease of Maintenance

• Minimal Upkeep: Occasional raking keeps the surface even and removes debris.
• Easily Replenishable: If some areas become compacted or displaced, adding fresh gravel restores the look and function.
• Weed Prevention: Using a weed barrier fabric beneath the gravel reduces weed growth, making it even easier to maintain.
• No Staining or Cracking: Unlike solid surfaces, gravel doesn’t stain, crack, or require sealing.

Gravel’s Role in Drainage & Sustainability

Gravel is a top choice for homeowners looking to improve drainage around their property. Because it is highly permeable, it allows rainwater to filter naturally into the soil, reducing surface runoff and minimising the risk of flooding. It is also environmentally friendly, as it prevents water waste and can be sourced locally for a sustainable building solution.

In addition to its drainage benefits, gravel contributes to sustainability by reducing the need for concrete or asphalt, both of which have significant environmental impacts. Its ability to regulate ground temperature and prevent excessive water evaporation makes it a great choice for eco-conscious homeowners.

Why Choose Sansums for Your Gravel Needs?

At Sansums, we supply a wide range of high-quality gravel options suitable for all types of exterior projects. Whether you’re looking to create a stunning driveway, improve your garden’s drainage, or enhance your outdoor space with decorative gravel, we have the perfect solution for you.

• Competitive Prices
• A Variety of Sizes & Colours
• Reliable Local Supply
•  Expert Advice & Support

Get Started Today!

Transform your outdoor spaces with premium gravel from Sansums. Contact us today to find the perfect gravel for your project!

 Call us now – 01793536784  or visit us to explore our full range!

Creating a lush, healthy garden starts with using the right materials.

At Sansums Sand & Gravel, their range of topsoil, bark, and compost products provides a reliable foundation for gardens of all kinds.

Each of these products offers unique benefits that can work together to promote plant growth, suppress weeds, retain moisture, and enrich the soil.

Topsoil: The Nutrient-Rich Base for Your Garden

High-quality topsoil is packed with essential nutrients, making it a vital element for any garden. Sansums’ topsoil is ideal for building a fertile foundation for flower beds, vegetable patches, and lawns.

• Healthy Plant Growth: Use topsoil to improve the nutrient content of your garden beds or create a solid base layer for new lawns.
• Erosion Control: Spread topsoil over bare patches to prevent erosion, especially on slopes.
• Ideal for Turf: Topsoil is perfect for preparing an even and healthy base for new turf installation, improving growth and moisture retention.

Compost: Enrich Your Soil with Organic Goodness

Compost is an essential garden enhancer, rich in organic material that supports healthy soil microbiomes and plant growth. Sansums’ compost is designed to be high-quality, nutrient-dense, and ready to blend seamlessly with topsoil.

• Soil Enrichment: Mix compost with topsoil to improve soil fertility, which is particularly useful in vegetable gardens or flower beds.
• Encourage Healthy Roots: Compost provides essential nutrients that support robust root systems and improve plant resilience.
• Eco-Friendly Waste Recycling: Compost not only reduces the need for chemical fertilisers but also promotes an eco-friendly approach by recycling organic materials.

Compost is ideal for new plantings and established gardens alike, as it continuously replenishes soil nutrients and improves water retention.

Bark Chippings: A Protective and Attractive Mulch

Sansums’ bark chippings are perfect for adding a natural, polished look to garden beds while offering excellent practical benefits, including weed suppression and moisture retention.

• Mulching and Moisture Control: Bark conserves moisture in the soil, reducing the need for frequent watering.
• Weed Barrier: A layer of bark suppresses weeds, reducing the need for chemical herbicides.
• Root Insulation: Bark protects roots from temperature extremes, helping plants thrive year-round.

Combining Topsoil, Compost, and Bark for Maximum Benefits

Using topsoil, compost, and bark together can transform your garden into a fertile and low-maintenance paradise. Here’s how to make the most of this combination:

• For Planting Beds: Start with a layer of nutrient-rich topsoil mixed with compost to establish a robust growing medium. Add a layer of bark chippings on top to lock in moisture, insulate roots, and keep weeds at bay.
• In Vegetable Gardens: Enhance soil with a blend of compost and topsoil for nutrient density, then add bark to help conserve moisture and keep the soil warm for longer growing seasons.
• Around Trees and Shrubs: Use topsoil and compost to promote healthy root growth, with a finishing layer of bark to maintain moisture and provide a clean, natural look.

Why Choose Sansums Sand & Gravel?

Sansums Sand & Gravel offers high-quality topsoil, compost, and bark chippings, ensuring that each product is ready to support your gardening goals. By combining these products, you can create a garden that’s beautiful, sustainable, and resilient through the seasons.

Explore our offerings today at Sansums Sand & Gravel to find the right products for your garden transformation!

Decorative gravel has surged in popularity, offering a practical yet stylish solution for anyone looking to transform outdoor areas.

With an endless selection of textures, colours, and sizes, gravel brings an affordable yet impactful touch to gardens, walkways, driveways, and more.

Whether you’re looking to create a stunning border, set up a path, or design a unique water feature, decorative gravel is a versatile, low-maintenance choice that can add value and beauty to any property.

The Benefits of Decorative Gravel in Outdoor Design

One of the biggest reasons decorative gravel has become a top choice for landscapers, gardeners, and homeowners is its simplicity and adaptability. Unlike other outdoor materials that require continuous upkeep, gravel is easy to maintain and extremely resilient to weather and seasonal changes. It’s also an ideal option for defining spaces, creating visual interest, and bringing contrast to various landscaping features.

Gravel can be applied to almost any outdoor space—from the smallest garden path to the most expansive communal area or commercial property. With just a few bags of the right colour and texture, even the most underwhelming spaces can be transformed into something unique and eye-catching. Plus, the range of colours and textures available allows for endless creativity, ensuring that each gravel project is unique.

Popular Decorative Gravel Options to Consider

If you’re ready to add decorative gravel to your outdoor space, knowing the right types to choose is key. Each variety of gravel has its own look, texture, and functional advantages, making it important to select the best match for your specific project needs. Here are some popular decorative gravel options and their best uses:

• Golden Gravel: This popular aggregate features a beautiful mix of warm, natural tones, perfect for creating inviting pathways, covering driveways, and adding visual warmth to gardens. Its semi-angular shape allows it to settle nicely, preventing displacement even under heavier foot or vehicle traffic. Golden gravel’s rich colouration makes it a standout choice for borders, rockeries, and even large open spaces, where it adds a soft, natural appeal.
• Caledonian Scottish Cobbles: Known for their smooth, rounded shape and elegant, earthy colours, these cobbles are perfect for rockeries, water features, and low-maintenance borders. Their larger size and polished appearance give them a natural, timeless look that complements both contemporary and rustic landscapes. Cobbles also work beautifully as natural edging around flower beds, adding soft, organic curves to gardens and pathways.
• Plum Slate: For those looking to add depth and subtle colour, plum slate offers a sophisticated blend of blue and grey tones. Its layered, textured look makes it ideal for ground cover and pathways, creating an open, breathable finish that blends well with plants and other natural elements. Plum slate is especially popular in modern garden designs, where its cool colours and unique texture create a striking, polished effect.
• Red Granite: Red granite is known for its bright, saturated colour and distinct, angular texture. This gravel type is a favourite for adding bold contrast around plants, trees, and flower beds. Its deep red hue stands out beautifully against greenery and creates defined borders that enhance the visual structure of gardens. When used as a ground cover, red granite brings a rich, warm element to any landscape, making it an ideal choice for adding a splash of colour and character.

Creative Ways to Use Decorative Gravel

Decorative gravel is a fantastic choice for more than just ground cover. Here are some unique ways to use gravel in outdoor designs:

1. Pathways and Walkways: Gravel paths are not only beautiful but also practical. A well-designed gravel path can guide visitors through your garden or yard while protecting plants and soil from trampling. Gravel pathways also drain well, so there’s no worry about muddy tracks in wet weather.
2. Water Features: Cobbles and smooth pebbles work especially well around ponds, fountains, and water features. Their natural look pairs seamlessly with water, creating a tranquil, calming effect that feels both rustic and refined.
3. Garden Borders and Edging: Gravel borders add contrast and texture around flower beds and shrubbery. Using larger gravel as edging around your garden beds creates a clean, defined boundary that keeps soil in place and weeds at bay.
4. Mulch for Plants: Certain types of gravel can be used as mulch, providing insulation for plants in cold weather and helping retain moisture during the summer. This low-maintenance mulch option also deters weeds and can create an attractive, finished look in garden beds.
5. Rock Gardens and Decorative Patterns: For a striking design feature, you can mix different gravel colours and sizes to create patterns, swirls, or even a Zen-inspired rock garden. Decorative gravel offers a simple way to personalise your space and create one-of-a-kind artistic expressions in the garden.

Getting Started: Choosing and Sizing Your Gravel

Before purchasing gravel, it’s important to know how much you’ll need for your project. Start by measuring the area you plan to cover and consider the desired depth of your gravel layer. For pathways, around 2-3 inches of gravel is usually sufficient, while deeper layers may be required for driveways or larger rock gardens.

Selecting the right colour and texture is also crucial for achieving the desired look. The wide variety of colours—ranging from deep reds and warm golds to cool blues and silvery greys—means there’s a gravel choice to fit any aesthetic. Mixing colours and sizes is another way to create texture and contrast, especially in larger spaces where single-colour gravel may look flat or overly uniform.

Ready to Transform Your Space with Decorative Gravel?

If you’re looking to elevate your outdoor space with decorative gravel, we have everything you need to bring your vision to life. With a broad range of high-quality gravels and a team of experts ready to help you choose the perfect option, your garden transformation can start here. For personalized assistance and to browse a range of stunning examples, contact us today on 01793 536784 to discuss your project needs. Whether you’re looking for a single-colour statement or a blend of textures, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.

When it comes to creating new sports surfaces, selecting the right materials is key to ensuring durability, functionality, and aesthetic appeal. Whether you’re constructing a new running track, tennis court, or refreshing an existing one, Red Pave is the perfect solution. At Sansums, we specialise in supplying high-quality Red Pave for sports surfacing, helping you create the ideal environment for athletes to perform at their best.

But that’s not all—Sansums also provides whitewash sand, a versatile material that adds both functionality and visual appeal to sports surfaces. From long jump pits to children’s play areas, whitewash sand is a fantastic choice for any outdoor space.

Why Choose Red Pave for Your Sports Surfaces?

Red Pave is specifically designed for high-performance sports surfaces like running tracks and tennis courts. It’s not just about aesthetics—although the bold red colour certainly adds a professional touch to any facility—Red Pave offers a range of practical benefits as well.

• Durability: Red Pave is known for its toughness, able to withstand heavy foot traffic and harsh weather conditions, making it ideal for outdoor surfaces that need to perform consistently over time.
• Versatility: Whether you’re building a new surface or upgrading an existing one, Red Pave is the go-to material. If your current sports surface is showing signs of wear and tear, resurfacing with Red Pave can bring it back to life, providing a fresh and functional finish.
• Performance: Athletes benefit from Red Pave’s superior traction and smooth finish, helping to improve speed and agility, whether on the track or the court.

By choosing Red Pave, you’re not only investing in a long-lasting surface but also creating a space that looks professional and supports top-level athletic performance.

The Benefits of Whitewash Sand for Sports Surfacing

In addition to Red Pave, Sansums offers whitewash sand—another excellent material for various sports-related projects. Whitewash sand is particularly suited for creating long jump pits, running track sand traps, and children’s play areas. Here’s why:

• Aesthetic Appeal: One of the standout features of whitewash sand is its clean, bright appearance. The fine white sheen of the sand adds a striking contrast to other outdoor elements, making it not only functional but also visually appealing. Whether it’s used in a long jump pit or a play area, the polished look of whitewash sand enhances the overall aesthetics of your space.
• Functionality: Whitewash sand is ideal for specific sporting applications, such as setting up long jump pits, where athletes need a soft landing surface. It also works well in children’s play areas, providing a safe, smooth base for playtime.
• Low Maintenance: This type of sand is relatively low maintenance, retaining its clean and fresh look with minimal upkeep. It’s an investment that will keep your outdoor space looking sharp for years to come.

Combining Red Pave and Whitewash Sand for a Complete Sports Surface Solution

By incorporating both Red Pave and whitewash sand into your sports surface design, you can create a highly functional and visually stunning space that caters to various sports and activities. Whether you’re designing a professional-level athletic track or creating a safe and inviting play area, these materials work together to enhance both the performance and appearance of your facility.

Ready to Upgrade Your Sports Surface?

If you’re looking to create or revamp a sports surface, Red Pave and whitewash sand are the materials that can make all the difference. At Sansums, we have the expertise and products you need to achieve a top-tier result that stands the test of time.

Let’s work together to create a surface that’s not only durable and functional but also visually appealing. Get in touch today to learn more about our surfacing solutions and find out how we can help with your next project.

Explore our full range of products and services at Sansums. Contact us now to get started!

As summer draws to a close, your garden begins its transition into autumn.

This is the perfect time to prepare your outdoor space for the cooler months ahead, ensuring it remains a beautiful and functional area even as the days grow shorter.

Here’s a guide to the essential garden tasks you should tackle before autumn fully sets in, with a focus on fencing, drainage, patios, paving, and gravel.

Inspect and Repair Fencing

Fencing plays a crucial role in your garden’s structure, offering privacy, security, and a defined boundary. Autumn winds and winter storms can test the resilience of your fence, so now is the time to inspect and make any necessary repairs.

• Check for Damage: Look for loose panels, broken posts, or signs of rot. Pay special attention to areas where the fence meets the ground, as this is where moisture tends to accumulate, leading to decay.
• Reinforce and Replace: Tighten any loose screws or nails and consider replacing damaged panels or posts. If rot is an issue, you may need to replace sections of the fence entirely.
• Apply a Protective Treatment: Once repairs are complete, apply a weatherproofing treatment or stain to protect the wood from moisture and extend the life of your fence.

Ensure Proper Drainage

Good drainage is essential in autumn when rain becomes more frequent. Poor drainage can lead to waterlogging, which can damage plants, create muddy patches, and even affect the foundations of your garden structures.

• Assess Problem Areas: Walk around your garden and note any areas where water tends to pool. These are spots where drainage needs improvement.
• Install Drainage Solutions: You can improve drainage by installing French drains, which are trenches filled with gravel that help redirect water away from problem areas. Alternatively, consider creating a rain garden with water-tolerant plants in naturally low-lying areas.
• Aerate Your Lawn: Aerating your lawn allows water to penetrate the soil more effectively, reducing runoff and puddling. This simple step can significantly improve overall garden drainage.

Maintain and Upgrade Your Patio

Your patio is likely the centrepiece of your garden, where you relax and entertain. To keep it looking its best throughout autumn and beyond, it’s important to address any maintenance issues now.

• Clean the Surface: Start by giving your patio a thorough clean. Use a pressure washer to remove dirt, algae, and moss that may have accumulated during the summer months. Be sure to clean between the paving stones as well.
• Repair and Re-point: Check for any loose or cracked paving stones and replace them if necessary. Re-pointing the joints between paving slabs with fresh mortar can help prevent water from seeping under the slabs and causing further damage.
• Consider Sealing: Applying a sealant to your patio can protect it from the harsh autumn weather, preventing stains and moss growth while also enhancing the colour of the stones.

Tidy Up Paving Paths

Like patios, paving paths can suffer from wear and tear over time, especially as autumn approaches with its wet weather and falling leaves. A little maintenance now can save you from bigger issues later on.

• Remove Weeds and Debris: Start by clearing any weeds that have sprouted between the paving stones. A weed burner or a natural weed killer can be effective. Sweep away leaves and other debris to keep the paths clear and safe.
• Level Uneven Stones: If any paving stones have become uneven, lift them and level the ground beneath with sand or gravel before replacing them. This will prevent water from pooling and reduce the risk of slipping.
• Edge the Pathways: Consider adding edging to your paving paths to keep the stones in place and give the pathway a neat, finished appearance.

Refresh Gravel Areas

Gravel areas are low-maintenance but still need some attention before autumn arrives. Gravel can shift over time, leading to uneven surfaces and exposed ground.

• Rake and Redistribute: Start by raking the gravel to remove any debris and redistribute it evenly. This will help maintain a level surface and improve the overall appearance.
• Top-Up as Needed: If the gravel layer has thinned out, consider adding a fresh layer. This will not only improve the look of the area but also help with drainage by allowing water to pass through more easily.
• Weed Control: To prevent weeds from taking over, apply a weed suppressant fabric underneath the gravel if you haven’t already. This will minimize the amount of maintenance required throughout autumn.

Preparing your garden for autumn involves more than just tidying up; it’s about ensuring your outdoor space remains functional and attractive throughout the colder months.

By taking the time to inspect and repair your fencing, improve drainage, maintain your patio and paving, and refresh your gravel areas, you’ll set your garden up for success all year round.

These tasks may require a bit of effort now, but they’ll save you time and hassle when autumn is in full swing.