Artificial turf is a practical and popular alternative to natural grass, especially in areas where water use is restricted or where maintenance needs to be minimal. A major part of making artificial grass look and feel real is the use of infill. Infill is the material spread between the turf blades that helps keep the turf upright, adds weight, and provides cushioning.
Choosing the right infill can make a big difference depending on how you plan to use your turf. Whether it's for a backyard lawn, a pet area, a play zone, or a synthetic putting green, different infill types serve different needs. In this article, we’ll explain the best infill materials for various artificial turf uses, their benefits, and what to keep in mind when selecting the right one.
What Is Infill and Why Is It Important?
Infill refers to the small particles placed in between the synthetic grass blades. It’s usually made from sand, rubber, or specialty materials. Infill provides several key benefits:
- Keeps turf blades standing up
- Adds weight to prevent turf from shifting
- Helps with drainage
- Adds cushioning for comfort
- Reduces wear and tear
Without infill, turf can look flat, feel hard underfoot, and wear out more quickly.
Types of Infill Materials
There are several types of infill commonly used in artificial turf installation, each with different qualities:
1. Silica Sand
Silica sand is one of the most affordable and commonly used infills. It’s made of small, round grains of quartz.
- Best for: Low-traffic areas like residential lawns
- Pros: Inexpensive, natural look, helps blades stay upright
- Cons: Can compact over time, doesn’t control odors
2. Crumb Rubber
Made from recycled tires, crumb rubber is bouncy and soft.
- Best for: Sports fields and playgrounds
- Pros: Good shock absorption, suitable for high-impact zones
- Cons: Retains heat, can track indoors, may have a rubber smell
3. Zeolite
Zeolite is a natural mineral that helps neutralize ammonia smells from pet waste.
- Best for: Pet areas
- Pros: Odor control, safe for pets, moisture-absorbing
- Cons: Can be more expensive than other types
4. Envirofill
Envirofill is a coated sand product made with antimicrobial properties.
- Best for: Homes with kids and pets, or those wanting low-maintenance turf
- Pros: Doesn’t compact easily, resists bacteria and mold
- Cons: Costs more, but lasts longer
5. Acrylic-Coated Sand
This infill is coated for durability and low dust.
- Best for: Areas needing cleanliness and low static, like indoor fields
- Pros: Durable, non-toxic, low-dust
- Cons: Higher upfront cost
Best Infill for Different Artificial Turf Uses
For Home Lawns
For typical yard use where foot traffic is moderate, silica sand is often the go-to. It keeps the grass blades upright, gives a natural feel underfoot, and is cost-friendly. For families with kids or pets, Envirofill offers more benefits thanks to its cleanliness and odor-resistance.
For Pet Areas
If you're using artificial turf for a dog run or pet area, zeolite is a smart choice. It controls smells and handles moisture better than plain sand. Some people also use a mix of zeolite and silica sand for balance.
For Playgrounds
Playgrounds need a surface that cushions falls. Crumb rubber is ideal for this purpose because of its shock-absorbing quality. It helps prevent injuries and meets many safety standards for playground surfacing.
For Sports Fields
High-traffic sports fields require infill that can take a beating. Crumb rubber is again a solid choice, often used in combo with sand for better playability and durability.
For Putting Greens
When creating a synthetic putting green or artificial putting green, the infill needs to support smooth ball roll and firm surface conditions. A fine layer of silica sand works best here. It gives proper speed and keeps the turf blades short and upright for accurate play. If you're planning on putting artificial grass for this purpose, it's key to ensure the right infill is chosen for optimal performance.
How Much Infill Do You Need?
The amount of infill depends on the turf type and the intended use. As a general guide:
- 1 to 2 pounds per square foot for basic lawn turf
- 2 to 3 pounds per square foot for play or pet areas
- 3 to 4 pounds per square foot for sports fields
For putting artificial grass on greens, less infill is needed, but it must be spread evenly for consistent ball movement.
What Happens If You Skip Infill?
Some people are tempted to install turf without infill, especially in small areas. However, skipping infill can lead to:
- Flattened turf blades
- Wrinkles or movement in the turf
- Poor drainage
- More heat buildup
- Shorter turf lifespan
Even in small installations, using a light layer of infill is recommended.
How to Apply Infill Correctly
- Make sure the turf is clean and dry.
- Spread the infill evenly using a drop spreader.
- Use a stiff broom or power brush to work the infill into the grass.
- Add more layers as needed and brush in between.
Brushing is key—it helps the infill settle down to the base and supports the turf blades.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right infill for your artificial turf installation is just as important as picking the turf itself. The right infill helps your turf look real, feel good, and last longer. Each space—whether it’s a yard, a play area, or a synthetic putting green—has different needs, and picking the right material makes a big difference.
From sand to rubber to odor-fighting minerals, today’s infill options give homeowners and installers the tools to create long-lasting, great-looking artificial grass spaces.
By understanding your turf’s use and matching it with the right infill, you can enjoy a cleaner, greener space that looks great year-round—whether you're putting artificial grass in the backyard or building the perfect artificial putting green for your golf practice.