Choosing the Right Turf Infill for Long-Lasting Performance

Artificial turf: the visible surface is only part of the picture. What lies beneath—the artificial grass infill—plays a major role in how your turf performs, drains, and endures over time. Whether you’re installing turf for a backyard, pet area, sports field, or commercial landscape, selecting the best infill for synthetic turf is essential for both function and aesthetics.
At Synthetic Turf Northwest, we use natural, high-quality sand infill that supports durability, drainage, and long-term appearance, without compromising safety or performance.



Silica Sand for Artificial Grass




Silica Sand for Artificial Grass



Silica Sand for Artificial Grass


What Is Artificial Grass Infill?

Artificial grass infill refers to the material placed between synthetic turf blades. It helps keep the fibers upright, adds weight to anchor the turf, and enhances the overall feel underfoot. Without proper infill, artificial grass can appear flat, shift with use, and wear down more quickly.

Depending on your project goals—like odor control, heavy foot traffic, or water flow—different infill types may be better suited to your needs.

Why Is Infill Important?

Artificial grass infill is more than just filler—it’s a functional foundation that supports the longevity, performance, and comfort of your synthetic turf. Here’s why infill matters:

  • Maintains Turf Structure: Infill supports the individual blades of synthetic grass, helping them stay upright and resist matting. This gives your turf a more realistic, lush appearance that lasts, especially in high-traffic areas.
  • Adds Stability & Weight: By weighing down the turf, infill keeps it anchored in place. This reduces shifting, lifting, and wrinkling over time, making the surface safer and more durable underfoot.
  • Improves Drainage Efficiency: The right turf infill for drainage promotes water flow through the turf backing. This prevents puddling, water retention, and mildew buildup, keeping your lawn dry and low-maintenance.
  • Enhances Comfort: Infill influences how the turf feels underfoot. While rubber infill for turf offers a softer, bouncier step (great for sports and play), natural infill options provide firm yet forgiving support that mimics real grass.
  • Supports Pet-Friendly Use: For pet owners, a pet-friendly artificial grass infill can help minimize odors and improve drainage. This keeps your space cleaner, fresher, and more enjoyable for pets and people.
  • Increases Turf Longevity: Infill reduces the everyday wear and tear that can shorten turf life. It protects against fiber breakdown, helps maintain a uniform surface, and lowers the need for frequent grooming.

Types of Turf Infill: What’s Right for You?

Here’s a breakdown of the most common turf infill for drainage, comfort, and durability:

1. Natural Sand Infill (Used by Synthetic Turf Northwest)

Our preferred option, natural turf sand, is minimally processed and free from added chemicals. It’s a straightforward yet highly effective solution for most residential and commercial applications.

Benefits:

    • Provides consistent coverage and long-term stability
    • Maintains the natural shape and height of turf fibers
    • Enhances drainage efficiency
    • Budget-friendly and environmentally conscious

Unlike silica sand, which can compact over time and require more maintenance, our natural sand infill resists hardening and provides a more reliable base.

Note: We do not use silica sand due to its higher abrasiveness and tendency to compact.

2.  Golf Infill

Our premium Natural Golf Green Infill is specifically engineered for high-performance synthetic turf putting greens. Made from all-natural, lead-free materials, this infill delivers the ideal balance of playability, durability, and safety. 

Key features:

  • Stabilizes turf blades for a true-rolling, bentgrass-like surface
  • Smooth, even coverage that mimics natural putting greens
  • Adds weight to prevent turf shifting or movement over time
  • Natural green color that’s UV-stable and fade-resistant
  • Hydrophobic composition promotes excellent drainage and quick drying
  • Silica-free, pet-safe, and made from non-toxic, eco-friendly materials

Perfect for residential putting greens, commercial golf installations, or any project where performance meets peace of mind. 

3. Pet-Friendly Artificial Grass Infill

If you’re a pet owner, you know that odor control and cleanliness are critical. Pet-specific infills reduce odors and promote drainage, making cleanup easier and keeping your yard fresh.

Key Features:

  • Anti-microbial properties to help reduce bacterial buildup
  • Superior drainage to minimize odor retention
  • Typically paired with turf designed specifically for pets

Ask us about pairing our natural sand infill with pet-safe turf solutions to create a backyard your furry friends will love.

4. Rubber Infill for Turf

Rubber infill is often used for sports fields and high-impact zones due to its cushioning properties. While effective in specific scenarios, it may not be ideal for residential or pet areas due to heat retention and odor concerns.

Best for:

    • Sports fields (football, soccer, baseball)
    • Facilities prioritizing shock absorption
    • Playgrounds need extra cushioning

Which Infill Is Best for You?

  • Natural Sand Infill: Ideal for residential lawns and low-traffic areas. Offers stability, keeps fibers upright, and requires minimal maintenance.
  • Pet-Friendly Infill: Designed for households with pets. Prioritizes drainage and odor control to keep your yard clean and comfortable.
  • Blended Infill Options: A custom mix may be recommended for multi-use areas that need drainage and durability.

Not sure which option fits your project? Our team is here to help you make the right call based on your lifestyle and turf use.

At Synthetic Turf Northwest, we don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all approach. We’ll help you evaluate your specific space and recommend the best combination of turf and infill for maximum performance and satisfaction.

Turf Infill for Drainage: Why It Matters

Effective drainage is crucial for the long-term health of any artificial turf installation. Water can pool on the surface without the right infill, leading to mildew, odor buildup, or uneven wear.

Our natural turf sand supports fast drainage by allowing rainwater and irrigation to flow through the turf’s backing and into the sub-base. This reduces water retention and helps keep your turf clean and dry—even in the rainy Pacific Northwest.

Why Choose Synthetic Turf Northwest?

As the go-to synthetic turf experts in the greater Seattle and Puget Sound area, we’re proud to be known as the gentlemen of contractors.” Our friendly, professional, and honest approach has earned us trust throughout the community since 1996.

When you work with us, you get:

  • Over 20 years of installation expertise
  • Tailored recommendations for your specific needs
  • Locally sourced, reliable materials
  • A long-term partner who cares about your satisfaction

Let’s Talk Turf

Still wondering which artificial grass infill is right for your space? Whether landscaping your backyard, managing a sports complex, or upgrading a commercial property, we’re here to help you make an informed choice.

Call us at (425) 788-0718 or Fill out our contact form to schedule a consultation.

Let Synthetic Turf Northwest help you build a long-lasting surface that looks great, drains well, and stands the test of time.