If you are looking for a leather-like material for your home decor, but you’re concerned about where it’s sourced and its environmental impact, polyurethane (PU) leather may be the answer. It’s a synthetic, animal-free alternative to real leather that can be durable and breathable, and is easy to clean.
PU Leather FAQs
Polyurethane leather is an artificial leather made from a thermoplastic polymer that’s used for furniture, footwear and other products. It’s also a popular choice for upholstered furniture, such as sofas and chairs.
PU Leather Is Vegan
Most PU leather is completely vegan, but some types aren’t. Those include bicast leather and other types that have actual leather mixed in, but are coated with a PU layer.
Bicast leather is a type of PU leather that uses the fibrous part of cowhide from leather making to make it, but then adds a layer of PU to make it more durable. It’s not 100% vegan, because the PU can be made from other chemicals, like dimethylformamide (DMF), which has been linked to birth defects.
PU Leather Is Easy to Clean
PU leather is easier to clean than real leather, because it’s made from plastic and doesn’t bleed or become stained with dye. Genuine leather, on the other hand, requires special care with a microfiber cloth and leather lotion.
It can also be easily wiped down with soap and water, so it doesn’t get stains as easily. However, it’s important to note that polyurethane leather meaning doesn’t bend well and will crack over time, so regular upkeep is needed to ensure its longevity.
The Difference Between Faux and PU Leather
There are many different types of faux leather on the market, but the most common is polyurethane, or “PU,” leather. It’s an artificial, animal-free alternative to real leather that’s often used for upholstery and other materials, like shoes and purses.
Another kind of faux leather is bonded leather, which is similar to PU leather but has a different base material. It is made from a mixture of PU with a fiber base, such as cotton or polyester.
Bonded leather is more prone to fading than PU leather and it can be more brittle. This type of faux leather is most commonly found on car seats and other automotive accessories.
PU leather has some of the same characteristics as real leather, including an appealing look and texture. It’s less expensive than real leather, and it can be found in a variety of colors.
It’s an inexpensive option for people who want to decorate their homes with faux leather but don’t want to spend a fortune. It’s durable enough to last a long time, and it is also resistant to sunlight.
Unlike leather, PU leather will not decompose as quickly as real leather, which means that it’s a better choice for eco-conscious shoppers. It’s also easier to recycle when the item is no longer useful, which can help cut down on waste. PU leather is also cheaper than real leather, so it can be a great investment for those who value their wallets.
