Pineapple leather (Pinatex) is an eco-friendly material made from pineapple leaf fibers. This material has a texture close to real animal leather, is lightweight, breathable, wear-resistant, tear-resistant and water resistant. It can be cut, embroidered and embossed, and offers high design flexibility. It has a wide range of applications, covering luggage, shoes, home furnishings and automotive interiors, and is favored by many fashion brands.
As an innovative biomaterial, pineapple leather represents an important direction for the fashion industry’s transformation towards a green, ethical and circular economy. It combines ecological value with commercial potential and is one of the most popular sustainable leather alternatives at present.
Are you also considering using pineapple leather to make your own brand of bags? This post will explore the characteristics of pineapple leather and its advantages in making bags.
- What is pineapple leather?
- How to make pineapple leather?
- Raw material collection and pretreatment: From the farm to the starting point of the fiber
- Fiber extraction and purification: The Transformation from Plants to Textile Materials
- Base fabric forming: The leap from fibers to non-woven fabrics
- Surface treatment and functionalization: The sublimation from substrate to leather
- Summary of making pineapple leather
- DIY (small-scale) method of making pineapple leather
- Does pineapple leather last?
- Is pineapple leather waterproof?
- Is pineapple leather good for making bag?
- Conclusion
What is pineapple leather?
Pineapple leather, commercially known as Pinatex, is a natural vegan leather made from pineapple leaf fibers. It is an innovative and sustainable material that is used as an alternative to animal leather and synthetic leather (such as PVC/PU) in fashion and accessories. This makes pineapple leather an environmentally friendly and cruelty-free material, addressing environmental and ethical issues in the fashion and manufacturing industries.
The characteristics of pineapple leather
Why does pineapple leather appear?
The birth of pineapple leather originated from reflections on the environmental issues of traditional leather and synthetic leather. The production of animal leather involves high carbon emissions and ethical controversies, while synthetic leather relies on petrochemicals and is difficult to degrade. Pineapple leather, through the “turning waste into treasure” model, transforms the discarded leaves of pineapples picked in tropical regions (such as the Philippines, Thailand, and Zhanjiang, Guangdong, China) into high-value materials. Each hectare of pineapple field can produce approximately 480 kilograms of leaves, meeting the demand for producing 25 square meters of leather.
The application of pineapple leather
- Footwear: Shoes and sports shoes of brands such as Hugo Boss and H&M.
- Procurement of product packages and accessories: wallets, handbags and other accessories.
- Clothing: Jackets and other clothing.
How to make pineapple leather?
Pineapple leather, or Pinatex ®, is a sustainable material made from pineapple leaf fibers (a by-product of pineapple cultivation). The following are its production steps:
Raw material collection and pretreatment: From the farm to the starting point of the fiber
Source of raw materials
- Core production areas: Tropical regions such as the Philippines, Thailand, and Zhanjiang, Guangdong, China. Each hectare of pineapple field can produce approximately 480 kilograms of discarded leaves (meeting the production needs of 25 square meters of leather).
- Environmental value: The global pineapple industry generates approximately 13 million tons of waste each year, of which 40,000 tons are leaves. Traditional disposal methods include incineration or landfill, which can easily lead to carbon emissions and soil pollution.
Leaf-processing steps
- Cutting and cleaning: Harvest the leaves manually or mechanically, remove the unusable parts at the tip and base of the leaves, and rinse the sand and mud with clean water.
- Drying to reduce moisture: Expose to the sun for 3 to 5 days to lower the moisture content from 70% to 80% to below 15%, preventing fiber mold during subsequent processing.
- Case: A pineapple plantation in Zhanjiang, China, has increased its annual income by over 10 million yuan by cooperating with brands to transform discarded leaves into high-value-added raw materials.
Fiber extraction and purification: The Transformation from Plants to Textile Materials
Mechanically scrape the fibers
- Use an automated Decortication Machine to scrape off the long fibers beneath the leaf epidermis, with an average length of 50-80cm and a fiber diameter of approximately 20-50 micrometers.
- Efficiency comparison: Traditional manual scraping of hemp can only handle 20 kilograms of leaves per person per day, while the efficiency of mechanical scraping is increased by 10 times.
Biological enzymatic hydrolysis for gel removal
- Traditional process: Soak in natural water for 7 to 10 days to utilize microorganisms to decompose pectin (which is prone to polluting water sources, with a pectin residue rate of approximately 15%).
- Improved process (2023) : The Pectinase biodegradation method was adopted, reducing the time to 24 hours, lowering the wastewater discharge by 90%, and lowering the pectin residue rate to below 2%.
Bleaching and softening
- Bleaching: Hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) treatment increases the whiteness of fibers to 80-85 degrees (ISO standard), replacing the traditional chlorine bleaching process and reducing toxic by-products.
- Softening: After soaking in castor oil for 24 hours, the fiber flexibility increases by 30%, and the breaking strength rises from 45cN/dtex to 60cN/dtex.
Base fabric forming: The leap from fibers to non-woven fabrics
Sort it into a net-like pattern
The fibers are combed into a uniform mesh and stacked to the target thickness (0.8-1.5mm). The direction of fiber arrangement affects the strength of the base fabric (the longitudinal strength is 20% higher than the transverse strength).
Needle-punched reinforcement
Through the non-woven fabric needling process, 50 to 100 needles are inserted per square centimeter to make the fibers entangle and form a stable base material. The density of the base fabric is controlled at 0.3 to 0.5g/cm³.
Bio-resin impregnation
- PLA coating: Polylactic acid (PLA) impregnation enhances the strength and water resistance of the base fabric. The coating thickness is 50-100 microns, and it can withstand water pressure of over 1000mmH₂O.
- Corn-based polyurethane (Bio-PU) : It can replace traditional petroleum-based PU, with a bio-based content of 60% to 70%, reducing VOC emissions by 80%.
Hot pressing and shaping
Hot-press at 120-150℃ for 30-60 seconds to cure the resin and flatten the surface. The flatness error of the base fabric should be controlled within ±0.1mm.
Surface treatment and functionalization: The sublimation from substrate to leather
Texture embossing
Use molds to hot-press biomimetic textures such as crocodile patterns and lychee patterns. The embossing temperature is 160-180℃, the pressure is 5-10MPa, and the texture depth is 0.2-0.5mm.
Dyeing process
- Plant dyes: Indigo, madder root and other natural dyes (compliant with GOTS certification), color fastness grades 3-4 (ISO 105-B02 standard).
- Low-toxicity metal complex dyes: Enhance color fastness to grade 4 or above, and wash fastness to grade 4-5 (AATCC 61-2A standard).
Functional coating
- Waterproof treatment: Sprayed with bio-based fluorocarbon compound (C6 type), with a contact Angle of up to 110°, and a waterproof grade of 4 (ISO 5542 standard).
- Antibacterial treatment: Loaded with nano-zinc oxide (ZnO NPs), the antibacterial rate reaches 99% (against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus), with a continuous validity period of 12 months.
Summary of making pineapple leather
DIY (small-scale) method of making pineapple leather
You can make a basic thin slice of pineapple leather at home, although it won’t be as durable as commercially available Pinatex.
The materials and tools you need
- Pineapple leaves (10-15 pieces)
- Blender or mortar/pestle
- Fine filter screen or coarse cotton cloth
- Rolling pin or flat press
- Natural adhesives (corn starch, cassava starch or AGAR)
- Optional: Finish with plant-based oil or wax
Production steps
Prepare the leaves
Wash the pineapple leaves and cut them into small pieces.
Extract fibers
- Mix these fragments with a little water.
- Filter the pulp and fibrous substances with coarse cotton cloth.
- Thoroughly clean the fibers and let them dry.
Make fiber paste
- Mix the dried fibers with a small amount of starch or AGAR solution (as a binder).
- Stir until the surface is uniform and thick.
Fill in the form
- Spread the fiber mixture thinly on a flat or baking tray lined with parchment paper.
- Use a rolling pin or flatten it.
Dry
Let it dry in the sun or in a low-temperature oven (50-60°C / 120-140°F) for several hours until it hardens.
Completed
After drying, gently peel off.
You can choose to wipe with coconut oil, wax or flaxseed oil to enhance flexibility and the texture of the leather.
Technique
The ratio of fibers to adhesives is key – too much adhesive will make it malleable; Too little will make it fragile.
Test the thickness and drying temperature to achieve better flexibility.
Add natural dyes (such as turmeric, beet, coffee) for dyeing before drying.
Does pineapple leather last?
Is pineapple leather durable? Pineapple leather has a medium durability, slightly inferior to real animal leather, and is suitable for daily use. Generally speaking, fashionable bags made of pineapple leather can last for 3 to 5 years. Of course, if well maintained, they can last even longer.
The basic physical properties of pineapple leather
- Tensile strength: 280N in the longitudinal direction, 270N in the transverse direction (close to the level of dermis, which is usually 300-500N).
- Tear strength: 44.7N longitudinally, 38.5N laterally (superior to some synthetic leathers, such as 30-40N of ordinary PU).
- Wear resistance: No damage after 300,000 Martindale tests (200,000 to 500,000 times for genuine leather and 50,000 to 100,000 times for ordinary PU).
- Flexibility: No change after 150,000 Bally Flexing tests (simulating the bending of the upper to prove crease resistance).
The durability of pineapple leather
Lifespan in various applications
- Fashion: Bags or shoes with pineapple leather can last for 3 to 5 years (depending on usage). With regular care, it can be well maintained for a period of time.
- Furniture: Interior decoration made of pineapple leather may show signs of wear and tear after 5 to 10 years, depending on daily use, ultraviolet radiation and humidity.
- Automobile interior: Car seats made of Pinatex ® or similar materials are usually very durable and can last for many years, but some signs of wear may appear in high-friction areas such as seat edges or armrests.
Comparison to Alternatives
| Material | Lifespan (Regular Use) | Key Durability Trait |
| Pineapple Leather | 2–5 years | Balances sustainability and utility |
| Full-Grain Animal Leather | 10+ years | Exceptional resistance to wear |
| Mid-Range PU Leather | 2–4 years | Similar to pineapple leather, but less eco-friendly |
| Low-Grade Synthetic Leather | 6–18 months | Prone to peeling quickly |
What factors affect the durability of pineapple leather?
Several factors determine the service life of pineapple leather:
a) Coatings and surface treatments
Bio-based coatings (such as plant-based resins) enhance flexibility and water resistance, and extend the service life of materials.
Synthetic coatings (such as polyurethane) are more durable, but they limit their biodegradability.
Oil or wax treatment can help protect the surface from wear and moisture, extending its service life.
b) Loss
Pineapple leather is usually softer and more elastic than animal leather, but it is less resistant to scratches and wear.
Over time, it may develop patina (especially in high-contact areas such as bags or shoes) and show signs of wear and tear.
If this material is exposed to harsh weather or rough handling, it may degrade faster than stronger alternatives such as full-grain leather.
c) Maintenance
Regular cleaning and conditioning can help maintain its appearance and functionality.
Waterproof spray (especially for bags or shoes) can help protect it from rain and moisture.
A mild cleaner and a soft cloth will help keep it free of dirt and grime.
How to extend the lifespan of pineapple leather?
Gently clean with a damp cloth and mild soap (avoid scrubbing or irritating detergents).
Avoid direct sunlight, extreme heat or prolonged moisture. Store in a cool and dry place.
For bags, use protective feet to reduce friction on the base; Avoid overloading to prevent stretching.
Reapply water-based waterproof spray annually (for items exposed to elements) to reinforce the coating.
Is pineapple leather waterproof?
Pineapple leather has water-repellent or water-resistant properties, but it’s not entirely clear if it is fully waterproof.
Pineapple leather is described as having water-shedding properties and is considered waterproof. This means that to some extent, it can withstand slight moisture, such as spills or rain.
The core waterproof performance of pineapple leather: Laboratory data and industry standards
Contact Angle test
After the surface of pineapple leather is sprayed with bio-based fluorocarbon compounds (C6 type), the contact Angle reaches 110°, far exceeding that of ordinary synthetic leather (about 90°) and approaching the level of genuine leather (120°).
Industry standard: Waterproof textiles are considered waterproof if the contact Angle is ≥90°, and pineapple leather has reached the “superhydrophobic” level (a contact Angle >150° is superhydrophobic).
Moisture permeability test
Under conditions of 38℃ and 90% humidity, the water vapor transmission rate is ≤10g/m²/24h, ensuring sealing while maintaining breathability (the moisture transmission rate of ordinary PU leather is approximately 50-100g/m²/24h).
Case: A certain brand of pineapple leather backpack was tested in rainy weather (moderate rain level, lasting for 30 minutes), and the internal humidity only increased by 8% (12% for genuine leather under the same conditions).
Waterproofing process: A full-process analysis from raw materials to coatings
Base fabric treatment
Pineapple fiber is mixed with corn-based polylactic acid (PLA) to make a base fabric. PLA itself is hydrophobic (with a contact Angle of about 105°), laying the foundation for its waterproof performance.
Comparison: The water absorption rate of uncoated pineapple leather is 25%, but it drops to 8% after coating (close to the 5%-10% level of genuine leather).
Coating technology
- Bio-based fluorocarbon coatings: Some sustainable brands use plant-based paints or natural waxes (such as Carbrazil wax or beeswax) for waterproofing, while others employ C6-type fluorocarbons (non-traditional PFOA/PFOS), enhancing environmental friendliness while maintaining hydrophobicity (maximum water absorption rate <5%).
- Nano zinc oxide coating: Some products are added with antibacterial coatings, which not only inhibit bacterial growth but also enhance surface hydrophobicity through micro-nano structures (increasing the contact Angle by 5°-10°).
- Polyurethane (PU) coating: This is typically used in commercial production to provide a durable and waterproof surface treatment. It helps protect the material from moisture and wear.
Comparison to other materials
| Material | Waterproof Rating | Key Trait |
| Pineapple Leather | Water-resistant (not waterproof) | Sustainable, breathable, eco-friendly |
| Full-Grain Animal Leather | Water-resistant (with treatment) | Durable but requires regular conditioning |
| Synthetic Leather (PU/PVC) | Waterproof | Less breathable, petroleum-based |
| Rubberized Fabrics | Waterproof | Heavy and less flexible |
Is pineapple leather good for making bag?
Yes, pineapple leather is excellent material for making bags, combining sustainability, functionality and aesthetics. Especially if you are looking for a sustainable and cruelty-free alternative to traditional leather.
1. Environmental sustainability
- Waste utilization: Pineapple leather (such as Pinatex) is made from pineapple leaf fibers, which is by-products of agricultural waste. Each square meter of pineapple peel can reuse 16 kilograms of discarded leaves, reducing carbon emissions from burning or landfill.
- Resource efficiency: Its production does not require additional land, water or pesticides, making it a low-impact alternative to animal leather or synthetic leather.
- Circular economy: The manufacturing process employs a closed-loop water system (reducing fresh water usage by 80%) and biodegradable components, such as PLA (polylactic acid) coatings.
2. Performance and durability
- Strength: Pineapple leather has a tear resistance comparable to that of synthetic leather (such as PU) and can withstand daily wear and tear.
- Light weight: 30% lighter than animal leather, enhancing the comfort of the bag.
- Breathability and humidity management: The fiber structure allows air circulation and prevents odor accumulation – a key advantage of bags used in warm climates.
- Antibacterial performance: The natural enzymes in the fibers inhibit bacterial growth and extend the service life of the bags.
- Water resistance: The optional bio-based fluorocarbon coating (C6 type) offers a contact Angle of 110° and is free of toxic chemicals.
3. The universality of aesthetics and design
- Texture selection: This material can be printed with patterns such as crocodile or lychee patterns to imitate luxury leather.
- Color flexibility: Plant dyes (e.g., indigo, madder root) or low-toxicity metal complex dyes achieve bright tones with ISO-certified color fastness (Grade 4 +).
- Customization: Brands like PinoGreen use pineapple leather to create jacquard handbags, demonstrating its adaptability to high-end designs.
4. Market adoption and innovation
- Fashion industry: Luxury brands (such as Hugo Boss, Stella McCartney) and start-ups (such as Infinite Travel) have incorporated pineapple leather into bags, shoes and accessories.
- Technological advancements: Recent innovations include nanocellulose reinforcement (increasing tensile strength by 40%) and corn-based polyurethane coatings to enhance durability.
- Consumer demand: This material meets the growing demand for vegetarian and ethical products and offers a high-quality alternative to artificial leather (PU/PVC), which is petroleum-based and non-biodegradable.
5. Practical consideration
- Cost: Pineapple leather is slightly more expensive than synthetic leather, but considering sustainability, it is competitive compared to high-quality animal leather.
- Care: The bag should be gently cleaned with a damp cloth to avoid prolonged exposure to moisture (although a waterproof coating can alleviate this situation).
- Lifespan: If properly cared for, a pineapple leather bag can last for 3 to 7 years, which is comparable to that of medium-grade animal leather.
Conclusion
Pineapple leather is a vegan leather derived from pineapple leaf fibers and is an upgraded and recycled product from agricultural waste. This material combines the texture of leather with the flexibility of fabric, featuring lightness, durability and breathability. It is widely used in the production of fashionable items such as shoes, bags and car interiors.
If you are running your own bag business and plan to launch a series of vegan leather bags, please feel free to contact us. We are a leather bag manufacturing factory located in Baiyun District, Guangzhou. We have been providing leather bag manufacturing services since 2006.