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It’s not surprising that people have liked the look and feel of genuine leather for decades. However, the tides are turning when it comes to wearing animal products, and many people are looking for cruelty-free and environmentally-friendly alternatives. One of those leather alternatives is polyurethane leather, or PU leather.
So, what is PU leather? PU leather is a synthetic material that looks and feels similar to genuine leather. It’s used in a variety of products, from clothing and accessories to car interiors and furniture. PU leather can be less expensive than real leather, but it has some serious drawbacks.
It’s made from petroleum-based plastic, which isn’t biodegradable and can contribute to pollution and plastic waste. What’s more, PU leather can contain toxic chemicals and heavy metals that are harmful to our health and the environment.
Read on for a closer look at PU leather, including what it is, how it’s made, and the pros and cons of this synthetic material.
What is PU leather?
PU leather is a type of synthetic leather that’s made by applying a layer of polyurethane to a base material. That base material is usually fabric, but it may also be real leather, specifically the part of cowhide that’s left over after making genuine leather.
That’s why some PU leather isn’t vegan and some PU leather is. If your priority is to avoid animal products, make sure to check the label to see if your PU leather product contains real leather or not.
Some other names for PU leather include:
- Bicast Leather
- Split Leather
- Bonded Leather
- Reconstituted Leather
- Corrected Grain Leather
All of these materials have a coating of polyurethane to give them a leather-like appearance and a soft and flexible texture.
How is PU leather made?
PU leather is made by coating a base material, like fabric or split leather, with a layer of polyurethane. This layer may be applied via spraying, rolling, or dipping.
The material is dried and treated to give it an appearance similar to real leather. The final result is a versatile material that’s used in a variety of products, from purses to furniture to automotive interiors.
Is PU leather safe?
Unfortunately, PU leather can be harmful to our health. Some factories use volatile organic compounds (VOCs) when manufacturing this type of faux leather. These chemicals can cause health problems, including headaches and irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat.
Some PU leather products also contain heavy metals, like lead and cadmium, which can cause serious damage to our bodies. The chemicals in the production process can also contribute to air pollution and water contamination.
Some factories use safer products, such as water-based coatings, and are working to eliminate the use of heavy metals. The safety of the PU leather all depends on the production process and standards of the manufacturer, but unfortunately it comes with some very real risks.
Is it vegan?
PU leather is not necessarily vegan. As mentioned, it may be made by combining a polyurethane leather with cowhide.
The kind that’s made with fabric as a base layer is usually animal-product-free, but some factories may still use animal-based glues or dyes.
It’s important to check out how the PU leather is produced and what materials it’s made from if you want to avoid animal leather and products.
Is it sustainable?
The fabric-based kind of PU leather doesn’t use animal products, so in that way, it may be a more appealing material than animal leather. It also tends to use less water and chemicals than real leather production does. However, the production process can still be chemical-intensive and produces waste.
Plus, PU leather relies on petroleum-based plastics, which aren’t exactly eco-friendly and contribute to pollution. Some companies advertise PU leather as vegan leather, giving it an image of sustainability. Unfortunately, the truth is more complicated.
If you’re considering products made with PU leather, it’s worth researching the process behind how it’s made.
Pros of PU leather
One major advantage of PU leather is that some types mimic the appearance of real leather without using any animal products. Plus, PU leather tends to be more affordable than genuine leather while still providing a similar look and feel.
PU leather is also one of the most durable types of faux leather and can be made in a big variety of colors and textures. It’s also water resistant, making it easy to clean and maintain.
Cons of PU leather
One of the major cons of PU leather is that some types still use real leather as a base. You might think PU leather is animal-product-free, but that’s not always the case.
As mentioned, it derives from petroleum-based plastics and may use chemicals during the production process, so it’s not as eco-friendly as many companies want you to believe.
Finally, it may not be as durable as real leather and could crack or break down over time.
How PU leather compares to real leather
PU leather can look very similar to real leather. However, it might not be as breathable or long-lasting. Plus, real leather can develop a patina over time that adds to its character, while PU leather doesn’t have this quality as it ages.
How this faux leather compares to other types of vegan leather
If you’re looking for vegan leather, there are some more sustainable alternatives to PU leather. Apple leather, mushroom leather, and cactus leather, for example, are all plant-based leathers worth exploring. The texture and appearance may vary depending on the type of leather, but all offer viable alternatives to animal leather.
Beware of PVC leather, though, which is the least sustainable type of so-called vegan leather. It’s made with plastic and chemicals that can be harmful to consumers and the environment.
How to tell if something is made from PU leather
If you’re not sure if a product is made from PU or real leather, there are some ways to distinguish between the two:
- Texture: Genuine leather has a more varied texture and grain, while PU leather will be more uniform..
- Smell: Real leather has a distinct, earthy smell, but PU leather might have a synthetic smell.
- Price: PU leather is generally much more affordable than animal leather.
- Water test: PU leather is water resistant, so try placing a few drops of water on the material to see what happens. If the water doesn’t’ absorb, it may be PU leather. If it does and leaves a dark spot, it may be genuine leather.
What products are made with this synthetic leather?
PU leather is made into a variety of products, including:
- Furniture upholstery: It’s a popular choice due to its durability and low maintenance.
- Clothing: This might include jackets, pants, skirts, and dresses.
- Accessories: You can find PU leather purses, wallets, belts, and other accessories.
- Car interiors: PU leather is a common material in cars because it’s durable and resistant to stains.
- Shoes: You can find PU leather boots, sandals, and other footwear.
- Electronic cases: You might find protective cases for phones and tablets made out of this synthetic leather.
- Sports equipment: Boxing gloves, punching bags, and other sporting goods made be made from this type of alternative leather.
Final Thoughts
Many brands showcase PU leather as a vegan alternative to genuine leather, but it may not be as environmentally friendly as we’d like to think.
This synthetic material can use harmful chemicals in the production process, and it’s made with plastic derived from petroleum products.
While it may be less chemical-intensive than real leather, it can still have negative environmental impacts. If you’re looking for vegan leather, consider more sustainable alternatives, such as bio-based or recycled materials.
While you’re at it, check out these easy but effective ways to reduce plastic waste in your day-to-day life.
FAQ
What’s the difference between PU leather and genuine leather?
PU leather is a synthetic material made from applying polyurethane to a base of fabric or leather scraps, while genuine leather is made from animal hides.
Is PU leather vegan?
PU leather can be vegan if it’s made with a fabric base. However, some PU leather applies polyurethane to real leather. This kind still uses animal products and so is not vegan.
Is PU leather waterproof?
PU leather is water resistant, but it may not be completely waterproof. A lot of exposure to water can damage or stain the material.
How can I clean and care for products made with PU leather?
Use a damp cloth or sponge with mild soap and water. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners that can damage the material.
Is PU leather environmentally friendly?
PU leather is more sustainable than PVC leather, and it may be more sustainable than genuine leather. However, polyurethane is a type of plastic and not biodegradable, so PU leather products can contribute to the growing problems of waste and pollution.
