Have you ever wondered about the intriguing world of PU leather? Join us on a journey to explore its nuances and demystify common questions like, "What is PU leather made of?" and "How does it compare to genuine leather?" This article not only answers these queries but also delves into the pros and cons, maintenance tips, and ways to identify PU leather
PU leather, short for polyurethane leather, stands out as a synthetic alternative to traditional leather. What sets it apart is its entirely vegan nature, making it an ethical choice in contrast to genuine leather sourced from animal skin. Despite initial similarities, the uniqueness of PU leather becomes apparent over time, offering a distinctive experience.
PU leather is crafted from polyurethane, a type of plastic. The most common method involves applying a polyurethane cover to a fiber substrate, typically polyester. This process results in what is known as double-cast leather, where a layer of PVC or PU is added over a base of divided genuine leather. This technique not only enhances durability but also facilitates easier production compared to genuine leather.
Pros And Cons Of PU Leather
PU leather emerges as a cost-effective and eco-friendly alternative to genuine leather. Its easy cleaning and water resistance make it a practical choice for various applications, from fashion items to automobile interiors. However, drawbacks include a lack of the natural softness found in genuine leather, and it may be less flexible, impacting its longevity.
How To Take Care Of Pu Leather
Purchase leather goods from well-known and reliable brands, such as Natural Jackets. Baby oil is the most recommended for moisturizing Pu leather with good fat because it's reasonably priced. Pu leather cracks and gets damaged after prolonged exposure to sunlight. Place your jacket, handbag, sofa, or other pu leather item beneath the shed.
Pu Leather Vs. Genuine Leather
PU leather typically costs less than genuine leather. This may increase its appeal to people on a tight budget. Even though the textures of the two types of leather are incredibly similar, PU leather is typically thinner than genuine leather, making it harder and more vulnerable to cracking and bending over time. However, PU leather is more UV-resistant than animal leather and is frequently used in couches, armchairs, motorcycles, and vehicle seats. Compared to PU leather, genuine leather needs more excellent upkeep, and Genuine leather tends to get softer and far more appealing with time, but PU leather will always feel and look the same. PU leather is significantly less breathable than genuine leather but more breathable than other synthetic leathers like PVC.
How To Identify PU Leather
PU leather can be identified by examining it closely, as the texture of genuine leather is uneven and rough compared to PU leather. Since natural leather is organic, there will be variations in pore size across the material, and it will have irregularly shaped blemishes, scratches, and other marks compared to PU leather.
You can also identify pu leather by its smell, and it might smell like Plastic and chemicals, while original leather has a lighter smell of animals and leather, which is way more natural than the plastic smell. Genuine leather products will have some wear and tear on the edges. Because the edges of Pu leather products are precisely cut during the material's manufacturing, they will have nearly flawless advantages.
Pour a drop of water on an item to determine if it is made of PU leather. A drop of water placed on PU leather will slide off the surface rather than be absorbed by the material, as Plastic does not absorb moisture. Genuine leather will absorb some water in a matter of seconds unless it is treated to be waterproof. This won't compromise the substance or degrade the quality of the material. Hopefully, you will have gotten your answer about "What is pu leather?"
FAQs
1. How do you prevent PU Leather from cracking?
- Avoid direct sunlight exposure.
- Regularly moisturize with baby oil.
- Prevent excessive folding or creasing.
- Store in a cool, dry place.
2. Is PU leather soft or hard?
The softness of PU leather varies based on quality; generally, it is less supple than genuine leather.
3. How to Clean PU Leather?
- you can only wipe the surface with a damp cloth to remove dirt or stains.
- Use a mild soap or leather cleaner diluted in water to scrub the surface if required.
- Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as they can damage the PU Leather.
- After cleaning, remove excess moisture and let the material air dry naturally.
4. Is PU Leather the same as Synthetic Leather?
Yes, PU leather is a type of synthetic leather made from polyurethane.
5. Is PU leather waterproof?
PU Leather is not entirely waterproof, but it is water-resistant. It can handle small amounts of water or light spills without immediate damage. However, the material may become damaged if exposed to excessive water or soaked for a long time.
