PU leather is everywhere. Short for “polyurethane leather,” it’s a manufactured material made to look and feel like real leather. Because of its versatility, affordability, and appeal to vegans, PU leather has become a popular alternative to real leather in recent years.
You’ll find PU leather used in everything from furniture to clothing to car interiors. But what is PU leather, exactly?
This article will tell you everything you need to know about PU leather. We’ll cover its properties, its pros and cons, and how it stacks up against other materials. We’ll also explore how it’s made, the different types available, and how to tell it apart from real leather. By the end, you’ll know exactly what people mean when they talk about PU leather.
WHAT IS PU LEATHER?
PU leather is a completely synthetic material. Manufacturers create it by coating a base fabric – usually cotton or polyester – with polyurethane.
The process involves several steps. First, they apply the polyurethane coating to the fabric. Then, they texture the surface to mimic the grain of real leather. Finally, they color the material to the desired shade.
There are different types of PU leather, each with slightly different properties. For example, “soft PU” is very flexible and often used in clothing. “Premium PU” has a thicker coating for enhanced durability.
It’s important to know that PU leather is a type of faux leather. It’s designed to look and feel like real leather, but it’s made from entirely artificial materials.
The pros and cons of PU leather
Like most things, PU leather has its good points and its drawbacks. Here’s a quick look at the pros and cons:
Advantages of PU leather
- It’s easy on your wallet. PU leather is much cheaper than real leather, which makes it a great alternative if you’re trying to save money.
- It’s vegan. Because it’s made from synthetic materials, PU leather can be a good choice if you’re committed to a vegan lifestyle. That said, it’s still a good idea to ask about the manufacturing process, as some PU leather products may contain leftover animal leather.
- It’s water resistant and easy to clean. Spills and drips are no problem with PU leather. Most can be cleaned up with a quick wipe using mild soap and water.
- It’s versatile and stylish. PU leather can be manufactured in a rainbow of colors and a range of styles. It also stands up to sunlight better than real leather.
- It’s relatively easy to maintain. As mentioned above, PU leather can usually be cleaned with mild soap and water.
Disadvantages of PU Leather
- It’s not as durable as real leather. PU leather isn’t as tough as genuine leather. It’s more likely to crack and tear.
- It’s not as breathable as real leather. Unlike real leather, PU leather doesn’t breathe. This can make it less comfortable to wear. One thing to note is that PU leather is more breathable than PVC leather.
- It doesn’t develop a patina over time. Real leather develops a unique patina over time, which many people find attractive. PU leather doesn’t age in the same way.
- It has an environmental impact. The plastic components used to make PU leather are associated with environmental concerns.
- It may have an odor. Some people notice a plastic or chemical smell with PU leather.
PU Leather vs. Genuine Leather: What’s the Difference?
So, PU leather is a synthetic material, remember? It’s made by coating a base fabric with polyurethane, a type of plastic. Genuine leather, on the other hand, comes from animal hides, usually cowhide.
Let’s break down how these two materials compare:
Durability and Longevity
This is where genuine leather really shines. PU leather isn’t known for its durability. It can crack or peel over time, especially with heavy use. Genuine leather, however, can last for decades with proper care. Think about those well-worn leather jackets that just get better with age.
Appearance and Feel
PU leather has a uniform, almost perfect look. It lacks the natural imperfections that give genuine leather its character. Genuine leather has a unique grain pattern, and it develops a patina (a soft sheen) over time, which enhances its beauty. It’s like a fingerprint – no two pieces are exactly alike.
Breathability and Comfort
PU leather isn’t very breathable. This can be a problem in things like shoes or clothing, where it can trap moisture and lead to discomfort. Genuine leather breathes much better, allowing for air circulation and keeping you more comfortable.
Price and Value
PU leather is definitely the more affordable option. It’s a budget-friendly alternative to genuine leather. However, genuine leather offers better long-term value. While it’s more expensive upfront, its durability and aesthetic appeal mean it will last longer and potentially save you money in the long run.
How to identify PU leather
Sometimes, it can be hard to tell the difference between real leather and PU leather. Here are a few tips:
- Read the label. The manufacturer will usually use terms like “PU leather,” “faux leather,” or “synthetic leather.”
- Look closely at the texture. Real leather has a unique grain pattern with natural imperfections. PU leather usually has a uniform, almost plastic-like texture.
- Smell it. Real leather has a distinctive smell. PU leather may smell like chemicals or plastic.
- Try the water test. (Be careful with this one!) Real leather absorbs water. PU leather will repel it.
- Consider the price. PU leather is almost always cheaper than real leather.
PU Leather vs. PVC Leather
When you’re shopping for vegan leather, you’ll likely run across the terms “PU leather” and “PVC leather.” Here’s a quick rundown of the differences between the two:
Material Composition
As you now know, PU leather is made with a polyurethane coating over a base material, such as cotton or polyester.
PVC leather, on the other hand, uses polyvinyl chloride as its coating.
Durability
In general, PU leather is less durable than PVC leather.
PVC leather tends to be more resistant to wear and tear.
Breathability
If breathability matters to you, PU leather is the winner, as it allows more air to pass through than PVC leather.
PVC leather has very limited breathability.
Environmental Impact
The production and disposal of PU leather raise some environmental concerns. Polyurethane is made from petroleum, and the manufacturing process can release harmful chemicals.
However, PVC leather is even more problematic for the environment, as it involves the use of chlorine. The manufacturing and disposal of PVC leather can release dioxins, which are highly toxic.
What is PU leather used for?
Because it’s versatile and relatively inexpensive, PU leather is used in many industries.
Fashion
- Clothing: You’ll find PU leather in jackets, skirts, and pants.
- Accessories: It’s a common material for handbags, wallets, and belts.
- Footwear: Many shoes and boots incorporate PU leather.
Furniture
- Upholstery: Sofas, chairs, and headboards frequently use PU leather.
- Office Furniture: Office chairs often feature PU leather upholstery.
Automotive
- Car Seats: PU leather is a popular choice for car seat upholstery.
- Interior Trim: You might find it on dashboards and door panels.
Other Uses
- Electronics Cases: Cases for laptops, tablets, and phones sometimes use PU leather.
- Sporting Goods: Boxing gloves and punching bags are occasionally made with PU leather.
Caring for PU Leather
Like most synthetic materials, PU leather is relatively easy to care for. Here are a few tips:
- Cleaning: Use a soft, damp cloth to wipe away any dirt or spills. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the material.
- Maintenance: Use a PU leather conditioner occasionally to prevent cracking and keep the material supple.
- Storage: When storing PU leather items, keep them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. This will help prevent fading and cracking.
- Protection: Keep PU leather away from sharp objects and heat sources, as these can easily damage the surface.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is PU leather 100% leather?
Nope. PU leather is definitely not 100% leather. It’s actually a synthetic material made from a polyurethane coating applied to a base material like cotton or shredded leather fibers. Real leather comes directly from animal hides.
What are the disadvantages of PU leather?
While PU leather can be more affordable, it has some downsides. It’s generally less durable than genuine leather and doesn’t develop that nice patina over time. It can also crack or peel, and it doesn’t breathe as well, which can make it feel a bit sticky or uncomfortable.
What happens if PU leather gets wet?
PU leather is generally water-resistant to some extent, meaning a little spill won’t ruin it. However, prolonged exposure to water can damage the material. It’s best to wipe up any spills quickly to prevent any potential issues like staining or weakening of the coating.
Is PU leather good quality?
The quality of PU leather can vary quite a bit. Some higher-end PU leathers can look and feel pretty decent and hold up reasonably well. But generally speaking, it’s not as durable or long-lasting as real leather. It’s a good option if you’re looking for a more affordable and sometimes more sustainable alternative, but keep its limitations in mind.
Final Thoughts
PU leather offers an alternative to genuine leather, with its own plusses and minuses. It’s more affordable and can be more water-resistant, but it might not last as long as the real thing.
When deciding between PU leather and genuine leather, think about what matters most to you. Consider factors like how long you need the item to last, how much care you’re willing to give it, and what kind of impact your purchase will have on the environment. Also, consider what you’ll be using the item for.
The world of synthetic materials is always changing, and we’re likely to see even better, more sustainable alternatives to leather in the future. So, whether you choose PU leather or genuine leather, keep an eye out for new developments in this space.