Is Artificial Grass Toxic? What Colorado Homeowners Should Really Know

Artificial grass has become one of the most popular landscaping choices for Colorado homeowners, and for good reason. It looks great year-round, saves water, eliminates mowing, and creates clean, mud-free outdoor spaces for kids, pets, and families. But with its rise in popularity, many people still wonder:

Is artificial grass toxic?

The short answer: No, modern artificial grass is not toxic when you choose high-quality materials and a professional installation. In fact, today’s turf is engineered to be safer, cleaner, and more environmentally friendly than many traditional lawns.

Below, the team at Indy Artificial Turf & Landscaping breaks down everything homeowners should know about turf safety, materials, chemicals, and how to choose a system that’s healthy for your family and pets.

1. Modern Artificial Grass Is Made From Safe, Non-Toxic Materials

Decades ago, old versions of artificial turf were made with harsh chemicals and abrasive fibers (remember the old sports field turf?). But today’s residential turf is completely different.

Most high-quality artificial grass is made from polyethylene, the same safe plastic used in:

• Food-grade packaging

• Children’s toys

• Cutting boards

• Medical tubing

Polyethylene is non-toxic, hypoallergenic, and approved for use in products designed for direct human contact.

The backing is safe, too

Many premium turf products use urethane backing, which is durable, odor-resistant, and free from heavy metals or volatile organic compounds (VOCs). It doesn't break down or release harmful fumes, even in high heat.

2. No Fertilizers, No Pesticides, No Herbicides

One of the biggest advantages of artificial turf from a health standpoint is what it doesn’t require.

Traditional lawns often rely on:

• Weed killers

• Fertilizers

• Pesticides

• Herbicides

• Fungicides

These chemicals can pose risks to children, pets, and soil health.

With artificial grass, you eliminate all yard chemicals, making it a safer choice for families who spend time outdoors. For households with kids or dogs who play outside daily, this is a major benefit.

3. Artificial Grass Does Not Contain Lead or Heavy Metals

There’s a lingering misconception that artificial turf contains lead. While this was true decades ago in some early manufacturing, lead is no longer used in modern turf production.

At Indy, we install turf that is:

• Lead-free

• Heavy metal free

• PFAS-free, depending on the manufacturer

• Non-toxic and child-safe

All turf products we use meet or exceed federal safety standards and undergo third-party testing.

4. What About Infill? Is That Safe?

Infill is the material brushed between turf blades to help them stand upright. Some homeowners worry about infill safety, especially if they’ve heard of crumb rubber.

Crumb rubber concerns

Crumb rubber (made from ground-up tires) is sometimes used on athletic fields, but Indy does NOT use crumb rubber for residential turf due to potential heat and odor issues.

Safe alternatives for homes

For residential and pet applications, we use:

• Silica sand – Clean, inert, cooling

• Zeolite – Natural mineral that neutralizes odors

• Antimicrobial infill – Child- and pet-safe

These options are non-toxic, non-abrasive, and do not release harmful chemicals.

5. Artificial Grass Is Safe for Kids

Parents often ask: Can toddlers crawl on turf? Is it okay if my kids play on it barefoot?

The answer is yes.

High-quality turf is designed to be soft, cushioned, and safe. It’s free from allergens and chemical treatments found in real grass. Many playgrounds, schools, and daycare centers choose turf because it:

• Meets fall safety standards when paired with a shock pad

• Reduces mud, allergens, and insect exposure

• Eliminates pesticides and fertilizers

• Prevents tripping hazards like holes or uneven patches

Kids enjoy a safer, cleaner play surface that stays consistent through all seasons.

6. Is Artificial Grass Safe for Dogs?

Absolutely. In fact, dog owners are some of the biggest fans of artificial turf because it solves common problems like mud, digging, brown spots, and odor.

Pet-safe turf systems include:

• Perforated backing for fast drainage

• Crushed granite sub-base to prevent odor buildup

• Zeolite infill to neutralize ammonia

• Non-toxic materials are safe for paws and mouths

Many dog daycares, veterinary clinics, and boarding facilities in Colorado use turf for its safety and ease of cleaning.

7. Heat Concerns: Does Turf Off-Gas?

Artificial grass can get warm in peak summer sun, but it does not release harmful gases or chemicals.

Any “new turf smell” you might notice during installation is similar to the smell of a new garden hose or inflatable pool, harmless and temporary.

To reduce heat on hot days, you can:

• Hose the turf lightly

• Add shade structures

• Use lighter-colored or cooling infill

These simple strategies make the surface comfortable even in July.

8. Turf Is Hypoallergenic

For families dealing with:

• Grass pollen allergies

• Hay fever

• Mold sensitivity

• Outdoor asthma triggers

Artificial turf is often a game-changer.

No grass means no pollen, and no soil means significantly less dust, mold, and allergens.

9. What About Environmental Impact?

High-quality turf is more eco-friendly than many people think. It helps reduce:

• Water consumption

• Chemical runoff

• Air pollution from mowing

• Gas and oil waste

Paired with xeriscaping, artificial turf dramatically cuts water usage while keeping your yard looking clean and modern.

10. How to Ensure You’re Getting Non-Toxic Turf

Not all turf brands are created equal, which is why choosing reputable materials and installers is so important.

When selecting a turf contractor, make sure they:

• Use lead-free, non-toxic turf

• Avoid crumb rubber infill

• Install proper drainage

• Provide manufacturer safety data sheets

• Offer UV-stabilized, family-safe materials

At Indy, these are our minimum standards on every project.

Artificial Grass Is a Safe, Non-Toxic Choice for Today’s Homes

Modern artificial turf is engineered with safety in mind. It’s made from non-toxic materials, contains no lead or harmful chemicals, and eliminates the need for pesticides or fertilizers. For Colorado families who want a clean, safe, low-maintenance yard, turf is one of the healthiest choices available.

Whether you're planning a dog run, a backyard for the kids, or a full landscape redesign, Indy Artificial Turf & Landscaping installs high-quality, non-toxic turf systems built for long-term safety and durability. Request a free quote online to get started.