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We all know that leather is very durable and gives an elevated look. Whether we are choosing leather for our sofa or for a handbag, choosing the best leather is crucial. Leather being costly, it becomes a bit tough to always choose the genuine leather due to its higher price tags, so we often choose an artificial leather whenever our pocket doesn’t allow. When it comes to artificial leather, PU leather is very popular for its durability and wide uses. So, In this blog we are going to get all the insights of what is PU leather, its meaning, uses, and much more.
What is PU Leather means?
In your daily life, you must have heard about PU leather but do you exactly know, what is PU leather? PU Leather means polyurethane leather, is basically an artificial leather which is made up of thermoplastic polymer, known for its durability. It is well known as the best alternative to genuine leather due to its durability, affordability, and low maintenance. PU leather is used as a layer on base material such as cotton, vinyl, etc.
Do you know, in the market, PU leather is known by various names. Being vegan friendly, it is very preferred by people who look for the best alternative to genuine leather. Now, let’s look on different names of PU leather that are very common in industry in respect of their uses.
- PU Leather
- Bonded Leather
- Split Leather
- Bicast Leather
- Faux Leather
- Synthetic Leather
- Vegan Leather
- Pleather
- Corrected Grain Leather
- Reconstituted Leather
Is PU Leather Vegan?
Yes, PU leather is vegan leather as there is no use of animal derived material in the manufacturing. Unlike Genuine leather, which is typically made up of animal skin and more. PU leather is vegan as it is generally used as a coating on the fabric base like cotton, and other material which gives it a fabulous look, making it a perfect alternative solution to genuine leather. Being eco friendly and animal friendly, it serves like an affordable choice for buyers.
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How to recognize if it is vegan leather?
Recognizing vegan leather is not so easy but when you will be knowing the exact difference between vegan leather and genuine leather, you will be able to differentiate. The first factor to know is the price, difference between genuine leather and PU leather is price. PU leather is cheaper as it is easier to produce. After the price, smell is the second factor that can help you to recognizing vegan leather. PU leather smells like plastic or chemical rather than genuine leather. Apart from this, you can also check with a water test, genuine leather always absorb the water while on the other hand, vegan leather will not absorb.
When it comes to texture, real leather always have some imperfections in texture while on the other hand, vegan leather or PU leather will have a proper pattern and same texture.
Pros & Cons Of PU Leather
PU leather, also known as polyurethane leather, is a popular synthetic alternative to genuine leather. PU leather is widely used in furniture, fashion, and accessories due to its affordability and cruelty-free appeal. While it mimics the look of real leather, PU leather has its own set of advantages and disadvantages depending on usage and expectations.
Pros of PU Leather
- Vegan and Cruelty-Free: Made without animal hides, making it a more ethical alternative to real leather.
- Affordable: PU leather is significantly cheaper than genuine leather.
- Water-Resistant: More resistant to water spills compared to natural leather.
- Easy to Clean: Requires minimal maintenance—just a simple wipe can clean it.
- Lightweight: PU leather items are generally lighter than their real leather counterparts.
- Wide Range of Designs: Easily customizable in colors, textures, and finishes.
- No Cracking from Drying Out: Unlike real leather, it doesn’t crack when dry due to lack of natural oils.
Cons of PU Leather
- Less Durable: Tends to peel or crack over time with regular use.
- Doesn’t Age Well: Lacks the patina and character that real leather develops over time.
- Can Look Fake: Sometimes has an unnatural shine or texture that reveals it’s synthetic.
- Non-Breathable: Can get hot and sticky, especially in warm weather.
- Environmental Concerns: Made using plastic-based chemicals, making it less eco-friendly.
- Shorter Lifespan: Generally doesn’t last as long as genuine leather in terms of wear and tear.
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Comparison: PU Leather Vs Genuine Leather
When choosing between PU leather and genuine leather, it’s essential to understand their differences in durability, appearance, maintenance, cost, and sustainability. While genuine leather is known for its authenticity and long-lasting quality, PU leather is a popular synthetic alternative that’s vegan, budget-friendly, and easier to maintain. Below is a quick comparison to help you decide which material fits your needs best.
Feature | PU Leather | Genuine Leather |
Material Type | Synthetic (Polyurethane-coated fabric) | Natural (Animal hide) |
Appearance | Mimics real leather, but may look artificial | Unique, natural texture and patina |
Durability | Less durable, prone to peeling/cracking | Highly durable, ages well over time |
Maintenance | Easy to clean with a simple wipe | Requires conditioning and careful care |
Cost | Affordable and budget-friendly | Expensive due to authenticity |
Eco-Friendliness | Plastic-based, less biodegradable | Biodegradable but involves animal products |
Breathability | Non-breathable, can get sticky | Breathes well, comfortable in all seasons |
Water Resistance | More resistant to water damage | Absorbs moisture unless treated |
Sustainability | Vegan-friendly | Not vegan, but can be more durable long-term |
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How to maintain PU Leather?
- Regular Dusting and Wiping
- One of the most important PU leather care tips is routine cleaning.
- Use a soft microfiber cloth to dust your PU leather item weekly.
- For surface dirt, gently wipe with a damp cloth and mild soap solution.
- Avoid harsh cleaners that can strip the coating.
- Keep It Away from Heat and Sunlight
- Prolonged exposure to heat and direct sunlight can cause PU leather to dry out and crack.
- Store PU leather items in a shaded area.
- Avoid placing them near radiators, heaters, or windows.
- Use a UV-protective spray if used outdoors
- Moisturize the Surface (Occasionally)
- Though PU leather doesn’t need conditioning like real leather, using a PU leather-safe conditioner every few months keeps the material supple.
- Use only water-based or silicone-free conditioners.
- Test the product on a small area before full application.
- Clean Stains Immediately
- To prevent stains from setting in:
- Blot spills with a dry cloth immediately.
- Use a mild soapy solution for food or ink stains.
- Never rub aggressively—this can damage the surface layer.
- Store Properly to Avoid Wrinkles and Cracks
- Improper storage can lead to creasing or premature cracking.
- Store bags and jackets in breathable garment bags.
- Use padding or tissue paper inside bags to retain shape.
- Avoid folding PU leather items for long periods.
- Avoid Harsh Chemicals and Alcohol-Based Cleaners
- Products with alcohol, acetone, or bleach can damage PU leather’s protective coating.
- Check labels before using cleaning sprays.
- Stick to PU leather-specific cleaning products.
Key Takeaway On PU Leather
PU leather, also known as polyurethane leather, is a type of artificial leather designed to mimic the look and feel of genuine leather. It’s an excellent choice if you’re seeking a cheaper, vegan-friendly alternative that also comes in a wide variety of colors and finishes. However, if authenticity and natural aging are your priorities, PU leather may not meet your expectations. Understanding the key differences between PU leather and genuine leather is essential, especially when making informed decisions during your furniture or fashion purchases.
Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author. They do not necessarily purport to reflect the values or views of Tumbledry.
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