Traditional leather is mainly genuine leather, but in recent years, many types of synthetic leather have emerged, and PU leather is one of them. PU leather (polyurethane leather) imitates the texture and appearance of real animal leather, but it is not genuine leather. So, what’s the difference between PU leather and real leather? How to distinguish them?
What does PU leather mean?
PU leather (polyurethane leather) is a type of synthetic leather. It is made by coating a layer of flexible polyurethane plastic on a fabric base such as polyester or cotton, and then embossing it to imitate the texture, smoothness and appearance of real animal leather.
PU leather is manufactured through chemical processes, combining flexibility, durability and cost-effectiveness, making it a popular alternative to animal leather.
Unlike PVC leather, PU leather is softer, more breathable and contains fewer harmful chemicals. As a non-cruel alternative, PU leather is widely used in bags, shoes and furniture. However, it lacks the lifespan and natural aging quality of genuine leather.
Is PU leather real leather?
No, PU leather (short for polyurethane leather) is not genuine leather. It is an artificial material that imitates the appearance and touch of real animal leather. In terms of appearance, PU leather can be made to resemble genuine leather, often with uniform texture and consistent appearance, but it lacks the natural variations and depth of genuine leather.
Why PU leather isn’t genuine leather
Free of animal ingredients: The genuine leather is derived from animal skins. PU leather is 100% synthetic.
Artificial texture: The “leather texture” is imprinted on the PU, not naturally formed.
Performance: Genuine leather becomes stronger with use. PU degradation (cracking/peeling).
PU Leather vs. Real Leather
| Feature | PU Leather | Real Leather |
| Material | Polyurethane plastic coating over fabric | Tanned animal hide (e.g., cow, sheep) |
| Source | Petroleum-based (artificial) | Natural (from animals) |
| Durability | Lasts 2–5 years; may peel/crack | Ages beautifully; lasts decades |
| Breathability | Low (traps heat/moisture) | High (naturally breathable) |
| Feel | Can mimic leather but feels plasticky over time | Softer, develops a unique patina |
| Eco-Impact | Plastic waste; not biodegradable | Biodegradable but has ethical concerns |
Advantages of polyurethane leather:
Affordable: Cheaper and easier to purchase than genuine leather.
Vegetarian/animal-free: There are many vegan options suitable for those who do not consume animal products.
Low maintenance: No maintenance required, easy to clean (wipe with a damp cloth).
Waterproof: It works better in damp conditions.
Disadvantages of polyurethane leather:
Not durable: Less durable, prone to peeling or cracking.
Lack of breathability: It may be hot and sticky in warm weather.
Not environmentally friendly: Made from petroleum products and based on plastic.
Not prone to aging: No patina, just wear and tear.
Not environmentally friendly: Made from petroleum products.
The advantages of real leather:
Durability: It can be used for more than ten years and will be enhanced over time.
Comfort: Good breathability, comfortable.
Biodegradable: It is easily biodegradable if left untreated.
Luxurious appearance and feel: aesthetically richer and more tactile.
Bronze: Aging gracefully and adding personality.
Disadvantages of real leather:
High cost: Genuine leather is relatively expensive, and the initial cost is very high.
Maintenance: Regular maintenance is required.
Non-vegetarians: Made from animals, there are ethical issues.
Prone to staining: It is susceptible to water and oil without protection.
The best use
PU leather: Economical bags, fashionable shoes, low-energy furniture, vegetarian fashion.
Genuine leather: luxury bags, boots, jackets, heirloom furniture.
How to distinguish PU leather from genuine leather?
Smell
Genuine leather has a strong earthy smell. PU smells like plastic.
Edge
Genuine leather has rough fibrous edges; The edges of PU are very smooth.
Bending test
The creases of genuine leather are soft. White cracks may appear when PU is folded.
Appearance and Texture
Genuine leather has a natural leather texture and feel, with clear and non-repetitive lines. Over time, it gradually shows unique signs of aging and wear, adding a retro charm.
PU Leather, although designed to have an appearance and texture similar to genuine leather, its texture is often rather monotonous and regular, lacking the natural beauty of genuine leather.
Feel
Genuine leather feels soft and elastic to the touch, fine and smooth, with a natural meaty feel.
The softness of PU Leather is relatively poor. The hand feel may be slightly astringent and sluggish, lacking the softness and smoothness of genuine leather.
Air permeability
The surface of genuine leather has pores and good breathability, so it won’t feel stuffy when used.
PU Leather has poor breathability and may feel impermeable after long-term use.
Cost and Sustainability
Genuine leather, being a natural material and having a complex manufacturing process, is usually more expensive. Meanwhile, the issue of its sustainability has also attracted much attention due to the limited nature of animal skin.
PU Leather, as a synthetic material, has a lower cost and the production process can be more easily controlled to reduce environmental pollution. However, it should be noted that some PU Leather may use harmful chemicals during the production process, causing certain impacts on the environment.
How long does pu leather last?
Ordinary PU leather can last for 2 to 5 years. Of course, the service life of PU leather depends on its quality, usage and care.
How long can PU leather last?
Poor-quality PU: 1-2 years (rapid peeling/cracking).
Mid-range PU: 2-5 years (with proper care).
High-end PU: Over 5 years (thicker coating, enhanced backing).
Factors affecting durability
Material factor
High-quality PU leather, due to the more advanced polyurethane coating process, may have a service life of up to 5 years or even longer. However, some low-quality products may experience a decline in aging resistance due to the addition of fillers, with surface cracking or peeling occurring within 2 to 3 years.
Usage frequency
Light use (occasionally in handbags, for decorating pillows) : lasts longer.
Frequent use (daily shoes, car seats, furniture) : Wear out faster.
Environmental factors
Sun/heat: Causes dryness, fading and cracking, and accelerates the aging of PU leather.
Moisture: Prolonged exposure can cause the PU coating to peel off.
Maintenance methods
Regular cleaning (with a damp cloth and mild soap) can effectively extend the service life of PU leather products.
Silicone hair conditioner (to prevent cracking).
Avoid using alcohol, acetone or abrasive cleaners.
The secret to making PU leather more durable
Avoid direct sunlight and keep away from heat sources.
Gently clean with a damp cloth – avoid using irritating cleaners.
Store properly, preferably in a dust-proof bag or lid.
Avoid moisture – If it gets wet, dry it quickly.
Don’t overload the bag and don’t sit too heavy on PU furniture.
Is PU leather safe?
PU leather is safe for daily use. It is made of polyurethane resin and usually does not contain toxicity after processing. Qualified products will pass safety tests and can be used with confidence.
Factors affecting the safety of PU leather
The safety of PU leather depends on its manufacturing process and product quality. If carcinogenic additives (such as toluene diisocyanate TDI) are used in the production process, or if unreacted chemicals remain, they may pose a threat to human health, such as triggering allergic reactions or increasing the risk of cancer.
In addition, inferior PU leather may release volatile organic compounds (VOCs), with the release amount reaching hundreds of times that of environmentally friendly materials. Long-term exposure may pose a threat to health.
Suggestions for reducing risks
Purchase through regular channels: Ensure that the product meets safety standards and reduces the residue of harmful substances.
Pay attention to production information: Give priority to products that adopt environmentally friendly processes (such as waterborne polyurethane) to avoid the potential hazards of traditional solvent-based PU leather.
Maintain good ventilation: Pay attention to environmental ventilation during use to reduce the accumulation of harmful substances.
Does PU leather smell?
Yes. New PU leather will have a slight chemical smell, unlike genuine leather (which has a natural, earthy smell), PU leather lacks the smell of organic tannins. But usually it is not as strong as PVC leather (PVC leather has a strong plastic smell). The source and nature of the odor need to be comprehensively judged in combination with the production process, material composition and usage environment.
Why does PU leather have an odor?
New PU leather may release VOCs (volatile organic compounds) : polyurethane coatings, adhesives or dyes (especially low-quality PU), common odors include plastic, rubber or a faint gel-like smell.
Cheap PU leather may retain solvents (such as dimethyl amide DMF), which may smell pungent or similar chemicals.
How long will the smell of PU leather last?
High-quality PU: The odor disappears within a few days to a week (if dried).
Poor-quality PU: Can last for weeks or months (with a stronger chemical smell).
Methods to reduce odors
Ventilation treatment: Place newly purchased products in a well-ventilated area for several days to accelerate the evaporation of odors.
Cleaning and wiping: Gently wipe the surface with a damp cloth to remove floating dust and some soluble residues.
Avoid high temperatures: Keep away from heat sources (such as central heating and direct sunlight) to prevent the odor from intensifying.
Choose high-quality products: Give priority to purchasing brand-name goods, as their production processes are more standardized and residue control is stricter.