What is Polyurethane (PU) Leather? Its Types and How it’s Made

Nowadays, the demand for leather has increased so much but real leather does not fit in everyone’s budget. There is also a major problem of saving animals. For this reason, a new alternative has come in the industry and that is called PU leather! 

PU leather is a kind of synthetic leather which is a perfect alternative to real leather. Its look is awesome and the price is also pocket-friendly.

It is being used in jackets, wallets, car seats, and even fancy sofas. Its demand in fashion and interior designing is increasing day by day because it is lightweight, waterproof, and stylish.

Have you ever gone to buy any leather products and the shopkeeper said, “This is PU leather!” Then you must have thought whether this is real leather or some fake stuff? Don’t worry, we will explain to you in detail. How is it made, why is it popular and how is it different from real leather, we will explain to you everything. So pay close attention, so nobody tricks you from the next time.

What is PU Leather?

PU leather stands for Polyurethane Leather and the name may seem a little heavy, but don’t worry, we will try to make you understand it in a simple and easy way.

PU leather is a kind of synthetic (fake) leather which is an excellent alternative to real leather. This is an artificial material which is not made from animal skin, but is prepared from a plastic-based substance called polyurethane.

To give it the look and feel of real leather, a smooth and shiny coating is applied to it which gives it the look of a real leather.

The biggest advantage of PU leather is that it is extremely lightweight and waterproof. So if you want a leather product that is affordable and looks stylish too, then PU leather is undoubtedly the best choice.

It is also easy to maintain, one just needs to take a little care that it is not exposed to too much sunlight and water. It needs to be kept carefully if you want to use it for long time, otherwise its outer layer might crack.

A big plus point of PU leather as compared to real leather is that it is cruelty-free, meaning no animal is killed for it. Vegan leather and faux leather are one of them. This is why people are liking it more these days, especially those who want animal-friendly products similar to vegan leather. This PU leather is a perfect combination of style and budget!

History of PU Leather

Leather has been in use all over the world for many years, but the scene of PU leather started in the middle of the 20th century. This story is quite interesting so please attention to it.

Revolution of 1960s: When real leather started getting expensive and the animals were sacrificed, then scientists found a new solution called synthetic leather. It was cheap and also gave the look of real leather.

After 1960s: The glory of Polyurethane, there was a great development of polyurethane technology and there was a blast of PU leather. This became soft and flexible, which people considered it as a great alternative to real leather.

By the 1980s and 1990s: Booming in the fashion industry, it became very popular in jackets, bags, belts, and shoes. Even the common people started liking it because it was cruelty-free and stylish.

Today’s time: Nowadays, PU leather is available everywhere – from car seat covers to sneakers! It is eco-friendly as well as budget-friendly, so the demand is increasing day by day.

Types of PU Leather

Have you ever thought that all the PU leather products you see in the market are of the same type? No, Mate! There are different types of PU leather, and each has its own unique style, look and feel. Some are more flexible, some are extra strong, and some are eco-friendly! Got it?

So now we are going to explain you in detail about the top 5 types of PU leather in a very simple way, so that you can understand which type is best for which purpose.

1. Standard PU Leather – The Most Basic And Common One

The most normal and basic PU leather is called Standard PU Leather. This is a simple and common type of leather which is easily available everywhere. This is the best alternative to real leather and is also budget-friendly.

How Is It Made?

• First of all, polyurethane (PU) coating is applied on a fabric base.
• This base is mostly made of cotton or polyester, which supports it.
• Then another layer is made on top of it which copies the texture of the original leather.
• Finally a protective coating is applied to give it shine and durability.

Where Is It Used?

Car seats – The seats of your car

Wallets and Belts – Mostly this standard PU leather is used in daily use leather products.

Shoes and Jackets – It is used a lot in the fashion industry because it is affordable and stylish.

Pros & Cons

• It is cheap and budget-friendly
• It is lightweight and waterproof
• There is no need to kill animals
• It is not as durable as real leather
• It can get damaged quickly in heat and sunlight

2. Bi-Cast Leather – Slightly Advanced Version

This Bi-Cast leather is slightly advanced and strong version of PU leather. It is shinier and more durable than standard PU leather and also feels a little like real leather.

How Is It Made?

• It has a thin layer of real leather which is used as the base.
• A PU coating is applied on top which gives it shine and waterproofness.
• It has a texture similar to original leather, so it looks more premium.

Where Is It Used?

Luxury Sofas and Furniture – The expensive sofas are mostly made from this leather.

Premium Bags and Accessories – It gives a little high-end look, so it is used in branded bags.

Car Interiors – If you want to give a little royal touch, then this is also used in the car.

Pros & Cons

• It is stronger and more durable than standard PU leather
• It gives a look like premium and real leather
• It is waterproof and easy to clean
• If kept in heat and sunlight for a long time, the layer starts getting sticky
• It is more expensive than standard PU leather

3. Microfiber PU Leather – Very Soft and High-Quality

For those who like soft and high-quality leather, Microfiber PU Leather is the best option. It is very light, flexible, and smooth like real leather.

How Is It Made?

• It is made of high-density microfiber fabric and PU resin.
• It contains small fibers that give the feel of real leather.
• This fabric is breathable and smooth, which makes it more comfortable.

Where Is It Used?

Premium Shoes and Sneakers – This fabric is used in branded shoes.

Luxury Car Seats – It is used in high-end cars as this fabric gives a royal feel.

Sports and Outdoor Gear – It can withstand a lot of wear and tear, so it is also used in sports jackets and gloves.

Pros & Cons 

• It is the softest and most comfortable
• It is extremely breathable and long-lasting
• It does not absorb much moisture, so it stays fresh
• It is a little more expensive than standard PU leather
• More chemicals are used to make it

4. Stretchable PU Leather – Flexible and Great Fit

If you want a leather that is extremely flexible and stretchable, then Stretchable PU Leather is absolutely perfect. It is used a lot in sportswear and designer furniture because it can fit in every shape.

How Is It Made?

• In this, extra elasticity is added to the PU material which makes it stretchable.
• Its base is spandex or rubber-based fabric, which makes it more flexible.
• It is soft and smooth, which makes it comfortable and stylish.

Where Is It Used?

Sportswear and Gloves – It is used in running shoes or gloves where flexible leather is required.

Designer Furniture – It is used a lot in custom-made and curved furniture.

Fitted Jackets and Pants – It fits well in body-hugging leather outfits.

Pros & Cons 

• It is extra flexible and comfortable
• It fits easily in every shape
• It is soft and breathable
• It is a little less durable than standard PU leather
• It is a little expensive

5. Eco-Friendly PU Leather – Environment’s Friend

If you want environment-friendly and pollution-free leather, then Eco-Friendly PU Leather is the best. It is made from bio-based or recycled materials, which causes less damage to nature.

How Is It Made?

• Plant-based or recycled plastic materials are used in it.
• It is prepared through low chemical process, which reduces pollution.
• It is non-toxic and biodegradable.

Where Is It Used?

Eco-Friendly Bags and Shoes – People who are nature-conscious prefer it more.

Sustainable Fashion Brands – Brands that promote pollution-free fashion use it.

Pros & Cons

• It is environment-friendly and biodegradable
• It is non-toxic and chemical-free
• It is a little expensive

So, now you know that there are different types of PU leather. Next time whenever you buy leather products, at least you will have a decent understanding about leather types.

How is Polyurethane (PU) Leather Made?

The process of making PU leather is a mix of great science and technology. It is a synthetic material, but it is made in a very solid way to give the look and feel of real leather. Smart scientists have come up with a great formula which is budget-friendly as well as eco-friendly. Now let’s understand step-by-step how this material is made.

1. Preparing The Base Material

First of all, the fabric base is prepared, which is mostly cotton, polyester or nylon.

This fabric is used so that PU leather can be made very strong and flexible.

High-quality PU leathers also use microfiber fabric which is even smoother.

2. Applying Polyurethane Coating

Now the real work begins, applying a layer of PU coating.

This polyurethane is a chemical compound which is a mix of plastic and rubber.

It is spread in a uniform layer over the fabric so that it looks like real leather.

3. Creating Texture and Design

Now a special embossing machine is used to give texture to the leather.

The machine creates a pattern like real leather so that it looks absolutely original.

The premium quality PU leathers also have a handcrafted texture.

4. Finishing and Protection

Now the colour, shine and finishing of the PU leather is set.

A protective coating is applied over it which makes it waterproof and scratch-resistant.

In the last step, heat treatment and drying process takes place so that the material becomes absolutely solid and durable.

This is how PU leather is prepared, which is an extremely strong alternative to real leather. Now, did you understand the science behind PU leather?

Difference Between PU Leather And Real Leather?

There is an absolute differences between the real leather and PU leather. But when both look the same, how can we know which one is the best? Ok, now we will explain to you with very easy points.

1. Difference of Material

Real Leather – This is real leather which is made from the skin of animals.

PU Leather – This is synthetic (plastic-based) leather which is made from polyurethane coating on a fabric base.

2. Durability

Real Leather – This is stronger and long-lasting, if taken care of properly then it lasts for 10-20 years.

PU Leather – This is a little less durable, and its layer can crack in 5-7 years.

3. Difference in Waterproofing

Real Leather – It absorbs water, so it requires little maintenance.

PU Leather – It is waterproof, so there is no need for much maintenance.

4. Price Comparison

Real Leather – It is very expensive because the processing of animal skin is more costly.

PU Leather – It is budget-friendly, which fits in every person’s pocket.

Understood? If you want durability and premium feel then you can opt for real leather, but if you want stylish, cruelty-free, and affordable option then PU leather is the best!

Application of Polyurethane (PU) Leather ?

Nowadays, the demand for PU leather is extremely high because it is cheap, stylish, and easy to maintain.

Car Interiors – It is very popular in car seats and steering covers.

Sofas and Furniture – PU leather is also used a lot in home decor.

Wallets and Bags – It is also used a lot in branded bags and purses.

Shoes and Jackets – It has become an extremely popular trend in the fashion industry.

There is a demand for PU leather everywhere and this industry is growing day by day.

Pros and Cons of Polyurethane (PU) Leather

Everything in this world has both good and bad sides, so let’s talk about it and see the pros and cons of PU leather!

Pros (Advantages)

• Budget-friendly – It is cheaper than real leather.
• Waterproof – It does not get damaged by water.
• Easy Maintenance – It can be cleaned with a cloth.
• Animal-friendly – No animal can be sacrificed in it.

Cons (Disadvantages)

• Durability is low – It starts to wear out in 5-7 years.
• Heat-sensitive – If kept in excessive sunlight, the layer can crack, always store in a right manner.
• Breathability is low – Does not let air pass like original leather.
• If you want a perfect combo of budget and style, then PU leather is the best choice!

Future of Polyurethane (PU) Leather

Today, the world is full of eco-friendly and cruelty-free products and the PU leather fits well in it. Technology is improving day by day, and new innovations are coming which are making PU leather even more durable and stylish.

• Bio-based PU leather is being developed which will be eco-friendly.
• Self-healing PU leather is also coming which will repair itself!
• The trend of recyclable PU leather is also increasing which will reduce pollution.

The future of PU leather is very bright, and in the future it is going to become even more advanced. Now, this point is also clear to you and whenever someone takes the name of PU leather, you must be talking like an expert.

Frequently Asked Questions 

1. Is PU leather better than real leather?

It depends on your needs! If you want cheap, lightweight and stylish leather, then PU leather is the best. But if you want durability and feel of real leather, then buy original leather.

2. Does PU leather get worn out quickly?

Yes, PU leather is a little less durable than real leather. Its shine may reduce in 5-7 years and it starts cracking, especially if you do not maintain it properly.

3. Does PU leather have any problem with water?

It will tolerate a little bit of water, but if it gets too much water, its layer starts getting sticky or fades. So it is best to keep it dry in heavy rain.

4. Does PU leather have a different smell?

Absolutely! Real leather has a strong and natural smell, which some people like. PU leather has a light artificial smell of plastic and chemicals, which disappears with time.

5. Is PU leather environment-friendly?

On one hand yes, because no animal is sacrificed to make it. But on the other hand, it is plastic-based and does not degrade quickly, which can create a little pollution. So it is not completely eco-friendly, but it is a better alternative!

6. Is it difficult to maintain PU leather products?

Not at all! You can easily keep it clean by using a clean cotton cloth and a slightly damp cloth. Just keep it away from extreme sunlight and water, then it will run fine!

Conclusion

PU leather is a great choice if you want stylish, budget-friendly and animal-protecting leather. Its shine, light weight, and affordability make it popular.

But, if you want the rough & tough durability of real leather, then PU leather will not meet your expectations. Understood? So now whenever someone asks “Hey, is this real leather?” you can give great advice to them!

So, what are you thinking now? Next time before buying a leather product, don’t forget to compare PU leather and real leather to get the best leather according to your needs.