Can Artificial Grass Reduce Allergies?

If you or your family suffer from hayfever or seasonal allergies, you’ll know how frustrating it can be to spend time outdoors when pollen counts are high. For many New Zealanders, mowing the lawn or sitting on freshly cut grass is enough to trigger sneezing, itchy eyes, and congestion.

That’s why more Kiwi homeowners and schools are switching to artificial grass — a practical, hypoallergenic alternative that offers all the visual appeal of natural turf without the allergens.

Why Natural Grass Triggers Allergies

Grass pollen is one of the most common airborne allergens in New Zealand. From late spring to early summer, pollen from ryegrass and other common lawn species can spread for kilometres in the air.

When inhaled, these microscopic particles irritate the nasal passages, eyes, and throat — especially in people with hayfever, asthma, or other respiratory sensitivities.

Common triggers include:

• Mowing or trimming natural lawns
• Windy days during the pollen season
• Walking or playing on freshly cut grass
• Residual pollen trapped in outdoor furniture or clothing

How Artificial Grass Helps Reduce Allergens

Artificial grass eliminates one of the biggest sources of outdoor pollen in residential and school environments: natural grass itself.

Here’s how synthetic turf can make a difference:

1. No pollen production – Artificial turf contains no live plants, so it doesn’t release pollen into the air.
2. Cleaner surfaces – Without soil or organic matter, there’s nowhere for pollen or dust mites to thrive.
3. Reduced mowing and trimming – Cutting natural lawns releases large amounts of pollen; synthetic turf requires none of that maintenance.
4. Washable surface – You can easily rinse down your artificial lawn to remove any airborne allergens that may have settled during windy days.

For people with moderate to severe hayfever, this switch can significantly improve comfort and time spent outdoors.

Best Allergy-Friendly Uses for Artificial Grass

Artificial turf isn’t just for backyards. It’s now widely used in environments where air quality and cleanliness matter most:

• Childcare centres and schools – Provides a safe, low-dust play area where children can run and play without exposure to grass pollen.
• Healthcare facilities and aged-care homes – Keeps courtyards green without adding allergens or maintenance.
• Residential lawns and patios – Perfect for families who want to enjoy their outdoor space without weekly sneezing fits.
• Pet areas – Reduces dirt, mud, and pollen transfer indoors.

These allergy-friendly spaces stay tidy year-round and can be easily maintained with occasional brushing and rinsing.

Maintenance Tips to Keep Your Turf Allergen-Free

Even though artificial turf doesn’t produce pollen, regular care will help keep it fresh and hygienic:

• Rinse with water every few weeks to wash away dust and airborne debris.
• Brush the fibres upright using a stiff broom to prevent matting.
• Remove leaves or organic litter that may attract insects or mould.
• For pet areas, clean with a mild detergent and deodoriser as needed.

A few minutes of care can help preserve the turf’s natural appearance and maintain a healthy outdoor environment.

Why Choose TigerTurf

At TigerTurf NZ, our artificial grass systems are designed for New Zealand’s unique climate and lifestyle. We use high-quality, UV-resistant fibres that are safe for children, pets, and allergy-sensitive individuals alike.

Whether you’re replacing a backyard lawn or resurfacing a school playground, our team can recommend the best hypoallergenic solution to meet your needs — durable, easy-care, and beautifully green all year.

The Bottom Line

Artificial grass offers more than convenience — it provides a healthier, allergy-friendly outdoor environment for families, schools, and businesses across New Zealand.

By removing the main sources of grass pollen and minimising dust, you can finally enjoy time outside without worrying about hayfever symptoms or maintenance hassles.