Is your backyard looking a little… mud-trodden? Or maybe you’re dreaming of a vibrant, low-maintenance play space where your kids can run wild without tracking dirt indoors. If so, you’ve probably considered artificial grass. But when it comes to the little ones, safety and comfort are top priorities. You’re not just looking for any fake turf; you’re on the hunt for the best artificial grass for kids.
Choosing the right synthetic turf for a child-friendly area means looking beyond just aesthetics. We need to think about soft surfaces for tumbles, non-toxic materials, good drainage for quick drying after rain, and durability to withstand endless play. Good news! We’ve rounded up 10 fantastic options, from lush rolls perfect for a backyard transformation to smaller, versatile tiles great for craft projects or mini play zones. Let’s dive in and discover the ideal child-friendly turf for your home!
Our Top Picks for the Best Artificial Grass for Kids
Here are our detailed reviews of the top artificial grass products designed with your kids in mind:
1. KAEZDD 4 Packs 6 X 6 Inch Fake Grass Decor
These small, versatile grass tiles are a fantastic choice for boosting creativity in kids’ projects or adding a touch of green to tiny spaces. While not meant for sprawling play areas, their multi-purpose design makes them perfect for crafting a miniature fairy garden, a small model landscape, or even for school science projects. They offer a realistic look in a compact package, making them an excellent addition to any craft box for budding artists or scientists.
Key Features:
- Set of 4 artificial grass tiles, each 6×6 inches
- Multi-purpose for DIY projects like fairy gardens, mini golf, school projects
- Made from realistic-looking green plastic with a stable backing
- Easy to clean: simply rinse with water and air dry
- 5MM thickness, suitable for indoor and outdoor use
Pros:
- Excellent for crafts and small decorative purposes
- Very easy to clean and maintain
- Realistic appearance for its small size
- Compact and easy to store
Cons:
- Too small for actual play areas
- Very thin (5mm), offers no real cushioning
User Impressions: Customers love these tiles for their craft versatility and realistic mini-lawn look. They’re often praised for adding a charming touch to small displays or being a fun sensory material for kids’ creative activities.
See it on Amazon here
2. XLX TURF Outdoor Artificial Grass Rug 4FT X 4FT, Green
The XLX TURF rug strikes a great balance between functionality and kid-friendliness for smaller play zones. At 4×4 feet, it’s a perfect mat for a patio, balcony, or a dedicated corner in a larger room. What truly makes it stand out for families is its lead-free material, ensuring a safe play surface for your little ones. Plus, its built-in drainage holes mean no puddles, making it a truly practical choice for all seasons.
Key Features:
- 4 x 4 foot large grass area rug in vibrant green
- Low pile (0.31 inch) for easy installation and removal
- Made from brand new PP material, waterproof, weatherproof, anti-UV, anti-shed
- Lead-free and pet-friendly with drainage holes for easy cleaning
- Versatile for patios, classrooms, kids’ playgrounds, and more
Pros:
- Child and pet-friendly with lead-free materials
- Effective drainage system
- Durable and suitable for all seasons
- Easy to clean and maintain
Cons:
- 0.31 inch pile height may not feel as plush as thicker options
- Fixed size might not suit all spaces
User Impressions: Parents appreciate the safety aspect and easy cleaning of this grass rug. It’s often chosen for small outdoor play areas or as a colorful, low-maintenance accent in classrooms.
See it on Amazon here
3. Moxie Direct Artificial Grass Turf Lawn, 3Feet X 8Feet
This Moxie Direct turf roll is an excellent option for creating a more substantial play area without the fuss of natural grass. It’s engineered with your family in mind, boasting UV protection and a promise of no toxic chemicals, making it perfectly safe for kids and pets. Its rubber backing with drainage holes ensures it dries quickly, and the decent 3×8 feet size makes it adaptable for various backyard projects, from a mini putting green to a dedicated play mat.
Key Features:
- Made of high-quality poly polypropylene yarns, 0.4 inch blade length
- Rubber-backed with drainage holes for quick drying
- UV Protection and free from toxic chemicals
- Low maintenance: no mowing, no watering
- Easy to clean with a broom or water hose
- Comes with a 10-year warranty and 30-day return policy
Pros:
- Safe for kids and pets, non-toxic and UV protected
- Durable with a good warranty
- Easy to clean and maintain, saving time and money
- Can be cut to size for custom applications
Cons:
- Pile height (0.4 inch) is on the shorter side for maximum cushioning
- May require more effort to lay out compared to small mats
User Impressions: Users frequently commend its realistic look and feel underfoot, highlighting its durability and the peace of mind that comes with its safety features for kids and pets.
See it on Amazon here
4. Shindel 12 Packs Fake Grass Decor for Crafts, 6″ x
If you’re looking to spark creativity or decorate small spaces, the Shindel 12-pack of fake grass tiles is a fantastic value. Similar to the KAEZDD option, these 6×6-inch tiles are ideal for diverse craft projects, miniature displays, or even creating unique centerpieces. With 12 pieces, you have plenty to work with, making them a go-to for kid’s school projects or for adding a touch of green to any small corner.
Key Features:
- Set of 12 artificial grass tiles, each 6×6 inches
- Versatile for fairy gardens, mini golf play areas, Easter displays, science projects
- Crafted from high-quality green plastic with a lifelike appearance
- Stable backing ensures tiles stay securely in place
- Valuable addition to arts and craft supplies
Pros:
- Excellent value with 12 tiles for numerous projects
- Highly versatile for various crafts and decorative uses
- Realistic look for its size
- Stable and easy to work with
Cons:
- Primarily for decorative or craft use, not suitable for active play
- Very small and thin
User Impressions: Customers love the quantity and versatility of these tiles, finding them perfect for detailed craft work, holiday decorations, and engaging kids in creative learning activities.
See it on Amazon here
5. Moxie Direct Realistic Artificial Grass Turf, Indoor
For those seeking a more luxurious and customizable artificial grass experience, this Moxie Direct turf delivers. With a more generous 0.8-inch blade length, it offers a plush, realistic feel that’s incredibly soft under bare feet—perfect for little ones to play on. Its biggest advantage is the customizable sizes, allowing you to tailor the synthetic turf precisely to your indoor or outdoor play area, ensuring a seamless and inviting green space.
Key Features:
- Made of high-quality poly polypropylene yarns, 0.8 inch blade length
- Rubber-backed with drainage holes for quick drying
- UV protection and safe for kids and pets, free from toxic chemicals
- Low maintenance: no mowing, no watering
- Customizable to any size or shape without fraying
- Easy installation: simply roll out
Pros:
- Plush and realistic feel due to longer pile height
- Highly customizable for perfect fit in any space
- Safe and non-toxic for children and pets
- Durable, UV protected, and easy to clean
Cons:
- Being a roll, might require some effort for initial unrolling and placement
- Pricier than smaller mats
User Impressions: Reviewers are often impressed by how realistic and soft this turf feels, making it a hit for creating comfortable, inviting play zones or pet areas. The ability to customize the size is a significant plus.
See it on Amazon here
6. Oiyeefo Artificial Turf Grass Outdoor – Pet Friendly Fake
The Oiyeefo Artificial Turf really stands out for its comprehensive approach to a family-friendly lawn. Not only is it crafted from durable, eco-friendly materials that are fireproof and UV-resistant, but it also comes with a complete installation kit! This thoughtful inclusion makes setting up your lush, soft, and realistic play surface a breeze. The four-layer backing and efficient drainage system ensure it stays vibrant and dry, no matter the weather.
Key Features:
- Made from eco-friendly PE&PP materials, fireproof and UV-resistant
- Smooth grass blades and robust four-layer backing
- Built-in drainage holes for quick water runoff
- Luxuriously soft and realistic, perfect for families and pets
- Complete installation kit included (washers, hook, landscape staples)
- Cuttable for custom shapes and sizes
Pros:
- Eco-friendly and highly durable (fireproof, UV-resistant)
- Excellent drainage keeps the surface dry and clean
- Luxuriously soft and natural feel
- Comes with all necessary installation accessories
Cons:
- Despite the kit, larger installations might still be time-consuming
- The included kit is for securing the turf, not for ground preparation
User Impressions: Users frequently rave about the included installation kit, which makes setup much easier. They also love the softness and realistic look, making it a favored choice for pet potty training and kid play zones.
See it on Amazon here
7. TURSTIN 6 Packs Artificial Grass Square Mat 12 x 12
These TURSTIN artificial grass mats offer a fantastic blend of versatility and a natural aesthetic in a larger tile format. At 12×12 inches with a generous 1-inch thickness, they provide a more substantial and softer surface than smaller craft tiles. They’re perfect for creating modular play areas, stepping stones in a garden path, or combining them for a unique DIY landscape. Plus, they’re explicitly stated to be safe and friendly for both children and pets!
Key Features:
- 6 packs of artificial grass mats, each 12×12 inches and 1 inch thick
- Made of high-quality polyethylene, polypropylene yarn, and black latex backing
- Good breathability and drainage for long-lasting use
- Labor-saving: no mowing or watering, easy to clean by rinsing
- Soft to the touch and realistic appearance
- Suitable for DIY mini gardening, various decorations, and safe for kids and pets
Pros:
- Thicker and more cushioned than small craft tiles
- Safe and friendly for children and pets
- Good drainage and easy to clean
- Versatile for DIY projects and modular setups
Cons:
- As tiles, they won’t provide a completely seamless look over large areas
- May require multiple packs for larger play spaces
User Impressions: Customers appreciate the realistic feel and thickness of these mats, often using them to create charming, low-maintenance green accents or small, soft play zones for toddlers.
See it on Amazon here
8. BioTurf Granular Turf Infill – Naturally Derived Turf
While not an artificial grass product itself, the BioTurf Granular Turf Infill is an absolute game-changer for maintaining the best artificial grass for kids and pets. This naturally derived infill is designed to tackle one of artificial turf’s biggest challenges: odors from pet waste. It absorbs moisture and breaks down smells at the source, ensuring that your kid-friendly play area always smells fresh and clean. Best of all, it’s made from plant-based, non-toxic ingredients, making it completely safe for everyone.
Key Features:
- 5-gallon pail of naturally derived turf deodorizer
- Easy to apply by hand or with a spreader
- Effectively controls strong pet odors from urine and feces
- Absorbs moisture and breaks down odors at the source
- Made from plant-based, non-toxic ingredients, safe for pets, kids, and plants
- Fast-acting with a light, natural scent, versatile for various turf areas
Pros:
- Essential for maintaining a clean, odor-free artificial turf for families with pets
- Completely safe and non-toxic for children and animals
- Highly effective at neutralizing odors
- Easy to apply and use
Cons:
- An additional maintenance product, not the turf itself
- Requires periodic reapplication for sustained odor control
User Impressions: Pet owners rave about its effectiveness in eliminating odors, noting how it transforms their artificial grass areas into much more pleasant spaces for both pets and children.
See it on Amazon here
9. Antenat Thick Artificial Grass Mats, 12″x12″ (4 Pack)
These Antenat Thick Artificial Grass Mats are a superb choice if you’re looking for a really plush and durable individual mat. With an impressive 1.2-inch pile, synthesized with four types of grass filaments (including wear-resistant M-shape filaments), these mats offer a truly realistic and soft sensory experience. They are fantastic for creating small, comfortable play zones, sensory stations for kids, or adding a touch of lush greenery to various indoor or outdoor settings.
Key Features:
- 4 pack of 12×12-inch grass patches with 1.2-inch pile length
- Synthesized with four types of grass filaments, including M-shape for flexibility and wear-resistance
- Extremely low maintenance, weather-resistant, and can be cut to size
- Great for DIY crafts, fairy gardens, mini putting greens, and sensory play
- Easy to install and clean with a broom and water hose
Pros:
- Very thick and plush for enhanced comfort and realism
- Highly durable due to advanced filament design
- Excellent for sensory play and crafting
- Low maintenance and weather-resistant
Cons:
- Only 4 mats per pack, so larger areas would require multiple purchases
- Not interlocking, so may shift if not secured
User Impressions: Customers are highly impressed by the thickness and realistic texture, often using them to create cozy, green nooks for kids to play or as stylish, low-maintenance decorations.
See it on Amazon here
10. Sorbus Grass Foam Floor Tiles – 12 Interlocking Mats of
The Sorbus Grass Foam Floor Tiles offer a unique solution, combining the visual appeal of artificial grass with the incredible cushioning of foam. These interlocking mats are a dream come true for creating soft, safe play areas indoors or out. Each 24×24 inch tile (totaling 48 sq ft) provides a thick, anti-fatigue surface that absorbs impact, making tumbles less impactful for your little ones. They’re easy to assemble, expand, and move, making them incredibly versatile for playrooms, patios, or temporary event spaces.
Key Features:
- 12 interlocking foam tiles (24×24 inches each, 48 sq ft total) with borders
- Provides comfort and cushion with artificial turf look
- Simple puzzle connection for secure, seamless assembly
- Detachable edge pieces for versatile layout
- Suitable for indoor (playroom, basement) and outdoor (patio, deck) use
- Waterproof, lightweight, portable, and durable for foot traffic
Pros:
- Excellent cushioning and anti-fatigue properties for safety
- Very easy to assemble, expand, and disassemble
- Versatile for both temporary and permanent setups, indoor/outdoor
- Waterproof and durable
Cons:
- Might not have the exact feel of traditional artificial turf due to the foam base
- Requires aligning grass blades for a seamless look
User Impressions: Parents absolutely love the soft, cushioned surface for their children’s play areas, especially for babies and toddlers learning to crawl or walk. The ease of assembly and portability are frequently highlighted.
See it on Amazon here
Frequently Asked Questions about Artificial Grass for Kids
Choosing the right play surface for your children is a big decision. Here are some common questions parents ask about synthetic turf:
Q1: What makes artificial grass safe for kids?
A: High-quality artificial grass designed for kids is typically lead-free and non-toxic, made from child-friendly materials like polyethylene and polypropylene. Many options offer a soft, cushioned surface, which can reduce injuries from falls compared to hard surfaces or uneven natural grass. It also eliminates the need for pesticides and fertilizers, creating a healthier play environment.
Q2: How do I clean artificial grass in a kids’ play area?
A: Cleaning artificial grass is generally straightforward. For everyday messes, simply rinse it with water. For spills or more stubborn dirt, a mild soap and water solution can be used, followed by a good rinse. If you have pets, products like the BioTurf Granular Turf Infill can help manage odors and keep the area fresh. A stiff-bristled broom can also help to keep the pile upright.
Q3: Does artificial grass get too hot for kids in the sun?
A: Artificial grass can get hotter than natural grass in direct sunlight, especially on very hot days. However, many modern synthetic turf products feature cooling technologies or materials designed to dissipate heat. Using infill (like silica sand) can also help to absorb heat and keep the surface cooler. Always check the turf’s temperature before allowing children to play on it during peak sun hours.
Q4: Can kids play on artificial grass year-round?
A: Absolutely! One of the major benefits of artificial grass is its all-weather durability. It doesn’t get muddy after rain thanks to its excellent drainage, and it won’t dry out or die in the heat. This means a green, usable play surface for your children all year long, regardless of the season.
Q5: What’s the best pile height for kids’ artificial grass?
A: For kids’ play areas, a moderate pile height of around 0.8 to 1.5 inches is often recommended. This range provides a good balance of cushioning for safety and a realistic, lush look. Shorter piles are easier to clean, while longer piles offer more softness but might require more brushing to prevent matting.
Q6: Do I need infill for artificial grass where kids play?
A: While not always mandatory, infill is highly recommended for artificial grass in kids’ play areas. It provides cushioning for falls, helps the grass blades stand upright for a natural look, adds weight to keep the turf in place, and can aid in drainage. For pet owners, specialized infills (like the BioTurf product we reviewed) also offer odor control, which is essential for a clean and pleasant play space.
Q7: How do I install artificial grass for a small play area?
A: For smaller mats or tiles, installation is often as simple as unrolling or laying them down. For larger rolls, you’ll want to prepare the ground by leveling it, laying down a weed barrier, and adding a base layer (like crushed aggregate). The turf is then rolled out, trimmed to fit, and secured with landscape staples or adhesive, often with infill brushed in afterwards. Many products, like the Oiyeefo turf, even come with basic installation accessories to get you started!
Conclusion
Creating a safe, clean, and fun play environment for your children is a top priority, and the right artificial grass can make all the difference. From small, versatile tiles perfect for crafts and mini-golf to expansive, cushioned rolls ideal for an entire backyard play zone, there’s a fantastic artificial grass for kids out there for every need.
When making your choice, remember to prioritize non-toxic, child-friendly materials, good drainage, and a comfortable surface for little feet and busy play. Whether you opt for a customizable roll, interlocking foam tiles, or a durable rug, you’re investing in a vibrant, low-maintenance space where your kids can enjoy the outdoors to the fullest. Happy playing!