Are you there wondering what PU leather is all about? It is also called faux leather or vegan leather. It is a type of vegan leather made from thermoplastic as well as plant by-products. This faux leather was developed in Germany in the late 19th century as a replacement for animal leather when war resulted in an insufficient supply.
Companies created Presstoff (the German term for this leather) by treating and layering paper pulp. This particular fabric is highly desirable in today’s sustainability-conscious market because it does not involve animal killing in its production. So, what is PU leather? I will explore everything you need to know about this versatile and affordable fabric. From what PU leather means, how it’s made, and its pros and cons, read on to learn it all.
What Is PU Leather Exactly?
The best place to start is by understanding PU leather and its meaning. In lay language, PU leather is an artificial leather that is usually used for making shoes, clothing, furniture, plus other products. Made from a thermoplastic polymer, PU leather is completely artificial, and that’s why we classify it as vegan.
Original leather and PU leather can be combined to create double-cast leather. In this case, a PU leather base covers a layer of animal leather. But this means that the final product is no longer vegan leather. Therefore, vegan customers will be significantly less likely to buy products made from this type of leather.
If you are on Google searching for “PU meaning leather,” here’s a simple explanation: it’s just artificial leather. During your research, you will come across a lot of other names. Some include:
- Bicast leather
- Bonded leather
- Split leather
- Reconstituted leather
While shopping for items in stores and clothing outlets, you might come across one or many of these terms branded on a product. It just shows that the product consists of PU leather and not pure leather. PU leather is a great option that customers could go for because of price, convenience, or just because it fits their lifestyle choices.
How Is PU Leather Made?
Since companies manufacture faux leather in mass, it is usually cheaper than genuine leather. Its production is automated in industry and requires proper machinery.
The process of making PU leather commences with manufacturers sourcing a base material, which is the backing layer. A film of polyurethane is then laminated or applied on the base layer. This will involve the application of multiple layers of resin, which will be subjected to high temperatures in order to ensure that they attach to the base perfectly and do not form different layers.
The next step involves applying a heavy roller to the PU leather, which enforces a man-made grain pattern on the surface to mimic genuine leather. Unlike natural leather fabric, manufacturers can apply various surface patterns. Moreover, it is worth noting that when it comes to faux leather, companies can dye them to any color they like. The last step involves adding finishing treatments to create different textures as well as increase the material’s durability.
Benefits of PU Leather
Thinking of purchasing PU leather products? It’s essential to consider the pros and cons of this faux leather fabric. However, each individual will have their own preference. Nevertheless, there are areas where the benefits of PU leather make it superior, and there are other situations when you know real leather is a better choice.
- Cheap Price
One advantage of PU leather is its lower price. PU leather requires less production costs, so you will find it in the market at an affordable price. Moreover, the seller has to sell PU leather products for less than genuine leather. This makes it a better alternative for clients who are ready to sacrifice quality to save some money.
- Vegan Friendly
Worried about animals? Fear not! PU leather does not involve animal slaughter like genuine leather does. Therefore, if you are a vegan or simply love animals, you will find items made from PU leather a more suitable option.
- Easy to Clean
Another pro is that PU leather is moisture-resistant. This makes products made with this leather easy to clean since they don’t absorb water. Just use a wet cloth to wipe them. Furthermore, they dry quickly.
- Versatile
Another plus of PU leather is that it is flexible. This means manufacturers can create materials in different colors, textures, and finishes. Therefore, PU leather products may become more attractive to potential buyers.
Cons of PU Leather
Two sides of the same coin exist, even in the case of PU leather. Let’s discuss some of its disadvantages.
- The Appearance
One of the prominent drawbacks of PU leather is that, sometimes, it seems unnatural, cheap, and even tacky. Leather clothing is still popular, especially among customers who think the real stuff makes them look good and feel confident. For them, PU leather is just not good enough.
- Environmental Impact
PU leather can negatively impact the environment, which is a major disadvantage. Why? Technically, it is not a biodegradable material. Therefore, products made from this leather usually end up in landfill sites. While here, they break down into microplastics, thus releasing toxic chemicals into the environment.
- Plastic Smell
If you hate plastic odor, PU leather can be a turn-off. Why? PU leather contains a strong plastic-like smell, which is not the case with its natural, animal skin counterpart.
- Tears and Scuffs
PU leather is lighter. It is also not as elastic and strong as animal leather. As a result, it will show clear signs of wear and tear over the years.
- No Patina Developments
Many leather lovers associate the formation of a patina as the main feature of quality leather. This is something that can’t happen with synthetic options. Nonetheless, there are those who go for the polished and uniform finish that PU leather portrays.
- Not as Timeless
Faux leather might not have the similar timeless appeal of real leather. Therefore, it might go out of fashion and lose its value quickly.
Animal Leather vs. PU Leather
PU leather is there to mimic genuine leather. However, there are some noticeable differences between the two. They include:
- Material: Genuine leather is essentially the tanned hide of animals, usually cows. PU leather is synthetic, using no animal products.
- Durability: High-end real leather generally outlasts PU leather over decades of use. PU leather may crack or peel with time.
- Price: Good quality genuine leather is markedly more expensive than PU leather.
- Repairs: One can often repair and restore leather. That’s not the case with damaged PU leather.
- Feel: The texture of PU leather is usually soft, while the original leather is rough.
Tips to Care for PU Leather
Wondering how to take care of your PU leather items? I have got your back! Here are some tips you can follow:
- Avoid harsh cleaners.
- Use conditioners or sprays explicitly made for faux leather to keep items supple. Avoid oil-based products.
- Avoid excessive moisture that can cause PU leather to crack or peel.
- Check the tag or product details for any specific care instructions.
- Wipe away spills immediately before they can soak in and stain.
- Spot-clean painted or coated PU leather. Do not immerse the item in water.
- Always leave the product to dry before using it.
- Do not expose your items to the sun excessively. It can damage and fade them.
Uses of PU Leather
PU leather is an artificial material that imitates real leather. Somehow, it does a pretty good job of having a comparable feel and look to the original. This nature is what gives it unmatched versatility. As a result, it can function in numerous areas.
- Fashion Industry
One of the industries that uses PU leather is the fashion sector. It’s used to make jackets, skirts, shoes, wallets, bags, watches, and more. 
- Vehicle Interiors
PU leather is used for vehicle seats due to its durability and easy maintenance. It also has water and stain-resistance qualities, making it an excellent fit for a car interior.
- Tech Accessories
Faux leather also forms tech accessories such as laptops and phone cases to protect devices from scratches and dents. It is also trendy and can bring charm to tech gadgets.
Conclusion
PU leather is a synthetic material that is as in demand as genuine leather. It has three main features: cheap, durable, and easy to clean. Because of its artificial look and limited breathability, it might not be suitable for everyone. Nevertheless, the characteristics of this leather fabric make it possible for fashion designers to create stylish products at lower costs.
Today, many consumers are embracing alternative materials that help protect the environment. Hence, the demand for vegan leather will likely keep growing and provide more viable solutions to the fashion industry worldwide.
