PU leather

What Is Faux PU Leather? The Complete Guide

What is faux PU leather? This is a question that many people have, and it’s a good question!  Let’s look at a few facts about this synthetic product.

History

While PU leather has enjoyed an increasing popularity over recent years, it’s no newcomer to the world. The invention of synthetic leather, or PU leather occurred back in the 1920’s when the US Rubber Co discovered naugahyde.

 

This was a tough and durable fabric, made to look and feel like natural leather but without any of the drawbacks. Naugahyde was an instant success with both commercial and domestic users alike, as it didn’t suffer from many of the issues associated with natural leather such as shrinking, stretching or fading in sunlight.

 

Back in the 1960’s, it was a common sight to see PU leather mini skirts and dresses as well as pantsuits. This updated material became a favorite of clothing designers because it was more durable and easier to care for than natural leather.

 

Types

There are two types of PU leather:

  • Full-synthetic
  • Split-synthetic

Full-Synthetic

Full-synthetic, as the name suggests, is made completely from synthetic materials.

This leather is the stronger of the two types and is more resistant to staining and fading. It also has a higher sheen than split-synthetic PU leather.

However, full-synthetic is less breathable than split-synthetic, so it may not be as comfortable to wear in warm weather.

Split-Synthetic

Split-synthetic leather is a type of manmade leather that is made from split layers of synthetic material bonded together. It is often used in lower-priced garments and footwear because it is cheaper to use than full-grain leather.

Split-synthetic also has a more consistent appearance than natural leather, which can vary in color and texture.

PU leather

How Is PU Leather Made?

PU leather is usually made by sandwiching a layer of polyurethane between two layers of fabric, such as cotton or nylon.

This fabric can be treated to look and feel like real leather. It is then embossed with a leather grain pattern and dyed to the desired color.

Benefits Of Using PU Leather Products

Cheaper

It is cheaper to produce and does not require the same level of care or maintenance as natural leather. In addition, PU leather does not fade or show wear as quickly.

More consistent in quality

Because PU leather is synthetic and made from polyurethane and other materials – usually textile backing or PVC – it is more durable and flexible than traditional PVC synthetic leathers, making it ideal for various uses.

Easier to clean and care for

These products are easy to clean because all you need to do is wipe them down with a damp cloth. They are also resistant to staining and scratches, making them ideal for high-traffic purposes such as dining room chairs or car seats.

Vegan-friendly

As more people are looking for vegan-friendly alternatives, this leather is a great option. In addition, it’s environmentally friendly because it doesn’t use animal products so is more durable than its real counterpart.

Faux Leather Vs PU Leather Products

The two types of leather are often confused because they look and feel so similar. Both are used to make various products, including upholstery, clothing, shoes, and accessories.

So, what’s the difference between the two? Let’s find out!

About Faux Leather

Faux leather, also called bonded leather, is a material made of 95% leather fibers and 5% adhesive. It has many of the same properties as real leather, making it an attractive alternative.

About PU Leather

PU leather is a synthetic material made to look and feel like leather. It is generally less expensive, and some people prefer it because it is lightweight and easier to care for. However, it is easy to tell the difference, and it usually doesn’t wear as well over time.

So, which one should you choose? It depends on what you are looking for and your budget. One of the benefits is that these products are waterproof, and waterproof faux leather and waterproof PU leather can be used for many products where genuine leather may be unsuitable.

Best Uses for PU Leather

  • Upholstery

PU leather is a popular choice for upholstery because it is both soft and durable. PU leather is also flame-resistant, making it a good option for furniture that will be near a heat source.

  • Handbags

PU leather handbags are a popular choice for many women because they offer the look and feel of real leather at a fraction of the price. As well as being stylish, they are also easy to care for, requiring only a damp cloth to clean.

  • Shoes

PU leather shoes are also a popular choice because they are comfortable and stylish. You can find them in a variety of colors, so they are easy to match with your clothing. If you’re looking for something a little more unique, try a pair of lace-up PU leather shoes. They are both fashionable and functional, and they will add a touch of style to any outfit.

  • Clothing

Clothing made from PU leather is a great option for those who are looking for an alternative to traditional leather clothing. It’s more durable and flexible than leather, and it is also more resistant to stains and tears.

  • Accessories

There are also a variety of PU leather accessories available, including belts, wallets, and purses. These products are a great way to add a touch of style to your outfit without spending a lot of money.

In A Nutshell

While PU leather has some very practical applications, it is not without its critics. Some people argue that PU leather is an environmentally unfriendly product, and others believe that PU leather is simply a cheap and poor-quality imitation of real leather, pointing to the fact that it doesn’t come close to the real, genuine product for true leather lovers.

Genuine leather has a natural look and feel that just can’t be replicated. If you’re looking for a product that will last you a lifetime, then genuine leather is the way to go. It’s an investment that you’ll be able to enjoy for years to come!

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