Understanding the Difference Between BioFill and ZeoFill

 When homeowners or businesses search for “What Is The Best Infill For Artificial Turf”, the conversation often leads to two popular options: BioFill and ZeoFill. Both are eco-friendly alternatives to traditional infill materials, and both serve unique purposes depending on your needs. At Lakota Design Group, we often get asked which one is better. The truth is, the answer depends on your priorities — whether that’s pet odor control, durability, cost, or overall performance.

In this guide, we’ll break down the differences between BioFill and ZeoFill, explore the best artificial turf infill options, and help you decide what type of infill for synthetic grass works best for your project.

Why Does Infill Matter for Artificial Turf?

Before diving into BioFill vs. ZeoFill, it’s important to understand why infill is used at all. Infill is the material spread across artificial turf to provide weight, stability, cushioning, and support. It also helps blades stand upright and improves overall turf durability.

Without infill, turf can flatten, wear out faster, and lose its natural feel. That’s why choosing the right infill is crucial, whether for residential lawns, sports fields, or pet friendly artificial turf infill solutions.

What Is BioFill?

What Is The Best Infill For Artificial Turf, the conversation often leads to two popular options: BioFill and ZeoFill. Both are eco-friendly alternatives to traditional infill materials, and both serve unique purposes depending on your needs

BioFill is an organic infill option, typically made from renewable and biodegradable materials like coconut husks or walnut shells. It’s specifically designed for eco-conscious homeowners and pet owners who want a natural solution.

Benefits of BioFill

• Eco-Friendly: Made from natural and renewable resources.

• Temperature Control: Helps keep turf cooler under direct sunlight.

• Safe for Pets and Kids: Non-toxic and biodegradable.

• Moisture Absorption: Helps reduce bacterial growth and keeps turf feeling fresh.

BioFill works best in backyards, pet runs, and landscapes where sustainability and comfort are top priorities. For example, many families in landscape design San Jose projects prefer BioFill because it blends with eco-friendly design choices.

What Is ZeoFill?

ZeoFill is a natural volcanic mineral infill, also known as zeolite. It’s mined from the earth and has a unique honeycomb structure that traps and neutralizes ammonia, making it a favorite among pet owners.

Benefits of ZeoFill

• Superior Odor Control: Traps pet urine ammonia, preventing lingering smells.

• Durable & Long-Lasting: Unlike organic infills, it won’t break down over time.

• Non-Toxic: Safe for children, pets, and the environment.

• Cooling Effect: Helps reflect heat and reduce turf temperature.

Because of its odor-fighting properties, ZeoFill is widely considered the gold standard for pet friendly artificial turf infill. In fact, Lakota Design Group often recommends ZeoFill to clients with multiple dogs or high-traffic turf areas.

Key Differences Between BioFill and ZeoFill

While both BioFill and ZeoFill are excellent infill materials, they differ in how they perform. Here’s a closer look:

1. Material Composition

• BioFill: Organic (coconut husks, walnut shells).

• ZeoFill: Mineral (volcanic zeolite).

2. Pet Odor Control

• BioFill: Provides some odor absorption but limited compared to ZeoFill.

• ZeoFill: Exceptional odor-neutralizing abilities, ideal for pet owners.

3. Longevity

• BioFill: Breaks down naturally over time, requiring replacement every few years.

• ZeoFill: Extremely durable and long-lasting.

4. Environmental Impact

• BioFill: 100% biodegradable and renewable.

• ZeoFill: Natural but non-biodegradable.

5. Cost

• BioFill: Often more affordable upfront but requires occasional replacement.

• ZeoFill: Slightly more expensive but longer-lasting.

For sustainable projects like landscape design San Jose, BioFill may align better with eco-focused goals. However, if pet odor is the top concern, ZeoFill is usually the smarter investment.

Other Best Artificial Turf Infill Options

Although BioFill and ZeoFill are leading choices, other infill materials are also popular. Let’s briefly explore how they compare:

Silica Sand

Silica sand is one of the most affordable infill options. It provides stability but doesn’t help with odor control. It can also retain heat.

Rubber Infill

Crumb rubber is often used on sports fields because of its excellent shock absorption. However, it tends to get hot and may not be ideal for backyards.

When considering silica sand vs rubber infill for turf, it’s important to think about usage. Sand works better for low-traffic areas, while rubber suits athletic environments.

Choosing the Right Infill: What Type of Infill for Synthetic Grass Do You Need?

When deciding between BioFill, ZeoFill, or other infills, here are some factors to keep in mind:

• Do you have pets?
  If yes, ZeoFill is usually best because it controls odor better than any other infill.

• Do you want an eco-friendly solution?
  BioFill is the more sustainable option since it’s biodegradable.

• What’s your budget?
  BioFill may be cheaper at first, but ZeoFill lasts longer, saving money long-term.

• Is turf temperature a concern?
  Both BioFill and ZeoFill help with cooling, but ZeoFill’s mineral properties provide added heat reduction.

At Lakota Design Group, we always recommend assessing your turf’s primary use. A family backyard in landscape design San Jose may benefit from BioFill, while a dog daycare facility will almost always need ZeoFill.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right infill is just as important as selecting the turf itself. When weighing BioFill vs. ZeoFill, the decision comes down to your specific needs:

• Choose BioFill if you want an eco-friendly, biodegradable solution for general use.

• Choose ZeoFill if pet odor control and durability are your top priorities.

Both are excellent options that outperform traditional choices like silica sand or crumb rubber. If you’re still unsure, Lakota Design Group is here to guide you through the best artificial turf infill options for your project.

For expert advice and tailored recommendations, don’t hesitate to contact us today.

FAQs

Q1: Is BioFill safe for pets that play on artificial turf?
Yes. BioFill is made from natural, organic materials and is completely safe for pets and children. However, it doesn’t control odor as well as ZeoFill.

Q2: Can ZeoFill be mixed with other infills?
Absolutely. Many turf installers combine ZeoFill with silica sand to balance cost, durability, and odor control.

Q3: How often should I replace BioFill compared to ZeoFill?
BioFill may need replacing every 2–4 years, depending on wear and weather exposure. ZeoFill, on the other hand, can last 8–10 years without replacement.