What is PU leather? Differences with genuine leather, lifespan, care, and how to choose without regrets

What is PU leather? Materials that create a “leather look”

PU is an abbreviation for polyurethane resin. PU leather is made by combining resin and fabric to create a texture and appearance similar to leather. If you think of PU leather, which is made from common cloth, as natural leather like cowhide or sheepskin, you will be mishandling it.

The resin on the surface and the fabric that supports it

The typical structure is to use a fabric as a base and a layer of polyurethane resin on top. By adding unevenness called grain and color shading to the surface, you can create a smooth look or a well-worn look.

Genuine leather is based on the fiber structure that exists naturally in animal hides. On the other hand, with cloth-based PU leather, the combination of cloth and resin creates a comfortable feel. Even though the bags are similar in color, the interior structure is different.

If the manufacturing method is different, the finish will also be different.

There are also differences in manufacturing methods, such as applying resin to the fabric or pasting layers of resin together. The softness, thickness, and resistance to deterioration vary depending on the base fiber, resin composition, and surface finish.You cannot judge that the quality is the same just by looking at the two letters "PU".

Furthermore, products based on a special non-woven fabric that resembles the fiber structure of natural leather are distinguished from "artificial leather," and polyurethane is also used here. Terms such as "PU leather," "microfiber," and "artificial leather" each have slightly different explanations, such as resin, fiber, and structure. Don't judge the quality just by the sound of the name; be sure to read the material description of the product.［1］

Know the difference between genuine leather and PVC leather

Genuine leather and PVC leather are often compared to PU leather. PVC is a resin called polyvinyl chloride, which is a different material from PU. Even if they are called "synthetic leather", they cannot be cared for in exactly the same way.

Price, weight, and softness are not determined by the name of the material alone. If you make genuine leather thinner, it will be lighter, but if you use thicker fabric or heavy metal fittings with PU leather, the whole bag will become heavier. Rather than comparing things like ``how much cheaper than genuine leather'' or ``always lighter'', it's better to look at the actual weight and dimensions after you buy it.

Genuine leather aging and PU vintage finish

For leather lovers, it's a great pleasure to see the color and shine change as you use it. Some types of leather, such as tanned leather and leather impregnated with oil or wax, are more likely to experience such changes. However, not all genuine leather grows in the same way, and the dyeing and surface finish also differ.

The vintage-style finish of PU leather is attractive because you can enjoy the muted color unevenness and scratchy look from the beginning. On the other hand, the change in which the resin peels off is different from aging, in which the luster of genuine leather deepens.``An expression that you like from the beginning'' and ``an expression that you develop over time.'' Think about which one you are attracted to.

The fun of choosing PU leather and important points to know

Easy to match your favorite shape and color with your daily clothes

There is no need to think too hard about choosing materials. A color that matches your jacket, fits comfortably on your shoulder, and a price that makes it easy to carry. For these reasons, it is natural to choose PU leather.

For example, when you want to change the balance of your outfit with a large bag, or when you want to try a color you haven't chosen before. PU leather is one of the candidates because it has a leather-like appearance. You don't have to be hesitant about the name of the material and give up on the design you like.

Even if it is easy to wipe off, it does not mean that the entire bag is waterproof.

The smooth resin surface makes it easy to wipe off light dirt. However, there is a difference between the surface repelling water and preventing water from entering the bag. Think about the structure, including seams, openings, zippers, and linings.

If you are going on a trip in the rain or traveling by bicycle or motorbike, don't just rely on the name of the material; you should check the waterproof specifications of the product. A well-textured city bag doesn't have to be used as rain gear. This distinction is important in order to use the tools comfortably.

It is not a material that can be safely applied with cream.

Those who have been using leather bags for a long time may think, ``First, add some oil.'' However, the surface of PU is resin. Mink oil and creams made for genuine leather are not necessarily suitable as they are. Before applying anything, check the product instructions and care product's compatible materials.

How many years does PU leather last? The reason why it falls apart

This is something you should know before purchasing.The lifespan of PU leather cannot be determined by the number of years common to all products.This is because it varies depending on the properties of the resin, the time after manufacture, the environment in which it is used, and the storage conditions.

The ``approximately 3 years'' estimate is not a guarantee from the date of purchase.

The Tokyo Cleaning and Life Hygiene Industry Association notes that there are differences in usage conditions regarding synthetic leather made from polyurethane, etc.Deterioration appears approximately 3 years after manufacture.We are introducing a guideline.［1］ What I would like to focus on is that from the time of manufacture, the time of the materials continues to advance even while they are in stores or warehouses.

However, this is a general explanation provided by an industry group, and is not a uniform number that determines the lifespan of all PU bags. Kaken Test Center also explains that the degree of deterioration varies depending on the quality of the resin.［2］ Don't just assume that it will break in 3 years or that you can rest assured for 3 years after purchase, but instead use it as a guideline to see changes in your bag, such as stickiness or peeling.

"Hydrolysis" involving water

One of the causes of damage to PU leather is hydrolysis, and when the molecular structure of the resin is broken down by water or moisture in the air, its strength decreases. Cracks, peeling, and stickiness may appear on the surface, so please be careful in hot and humid environments.［2］

Of course, not all damage is caused by hydrolysis; it can also be caused by rubbing, bending, or the effects of heat and light. Is it only the corners that are scratched, or is the surface peeling off over a large area? After looking at the damage, consider whether it can be treated with care or whether you should consult about repair.

Will it last a long time if I store it without using it?

Unfortunately, it cannot be said that if a product is used less often, it will not deteriorate. Even while stored, materials are affected by the storage environment. Rather than cherishing it too much and leaving it in a humid storage room, I would like to keep an eye on its condition and use it in my daily life.

Even if a product is described as "highly durable," check what it is durable against. Resistance to surface abrasion is not the same as resistance to deterioration due to moisture. If the test results are shown, it will be easier to make a decision if you know the conditions and evaluation details.

When looking at test numbers, don't just look at "how many weeks it was."Under what conditions and what were the results of the investigation?Read as a set. Once you understand that much, you can calmly judge the word "high durability".

Peeling cannot be restored with oil.

Applying cream to a deteriorated surface cannot restore the lost resin structure. Do not rub too hard to spread the peeling or apply adhesive unnecessarily; consult the retailer or repair shop. If a large area is damaged, it is necessary to compare the appearance and cost of repair with replacement.

Regular care starts with not leaving dirt and moisture behind.

In order to use PU leather comfortably, there is no need to take extensive care of it every time. First, after each use, lightly check for dampness on the handles and shoulder straps, and dirt on the bottom and corners. That alone is different from leaving it alone.

1. Gently remove dust with a soft cloth.

   Rather than buffing too hard, gently remove any residue left on the surface. Do not scrub with hard brushes or abrasives.

2. For products that can be wiped with water, wipe the dirt with a tightly wrung out cloth.

   Check the instruction manual and test it in an inconspicuous place to see if there are any changes. If you need detergent or cleaners, follow the instructions on the product and the compatible materials. To finish, remove moisture with a soft, dry cloth.

3. Make sure there is no moisture left and store in a well-ventilated place.

   Avoid direct sunlight, high temperature and humidity, and do not seal the bag while it is wet. Even if you want to dry it quickly, do not apply heat from a hair dryer or heater directly.

Alcohol-based disinfectant wipes may be convenient, but they may not be suitable for bags. Avoid using anything that is not advertised for use, as it may change the color or shine of the surface. The same goes for waterproof spray. Don't just decide based on the ingredient classification that it's safe because it's fluorine-based, but check whether it can be used on PU leather.

If the bag is made of a combination of other materials, pay attention to the handles and decorations. It is safer to handle each material separately rather than applying one care product to the entire surface.

Check here before buying PU leather

View material descriptions from “Luxury” and “Genuine Leather Style”

Words like "high quality" and "premium" are not common standards for comparing quality. First, check the specific specifications, such as what the main material and lining are, and whether there are handles or accessories made of other materials.

Please be especially careful about the name "Crazy Horse PU Leather". If it is a PU material that has a texture similar to crazy horse leather, it is different from crazy horse leather, which is made of genuine leather. Don't assume it's cowhide just by looking at the word "leather"; read the material section before making your selection.

For size, check not only the external dimensions, but also the entrance and your belongings.

Even if the bag is wide enough, it doesn't necessarily mean that your belongings will fit in the opening or inside pockets. If it's a PC, check the dimensions of the main body and case, and if it's a document, check the thickness of the file. The trick is not to guess the capacity based on the outside dimensions and decide that it should fit this much.

Also, consider not only the weight when empty, but also what it will be like when you add your wallet, charger, and water bottle. If you imagine the width of the shoulder straps, the adjustment range, and the situation in which you will use the handle, you will be able to find the shape that suits you.

Carefully check the surface condition of used clothes and long-term stored items.

There's a difference between enjoying a vintage feel and choosing materials that have deteriorated. For used items or items that have been stored for a long time, check the bent parts, corners, and base of the handle for any stickiness or peeling. There are some conditions that cannot be determined just by looking at the photos, so it is best to ask the seller.

Choose the shape of your bag to suit your lifestyle

The size of a comfortable bag will be different on days when you walk around town with just the things you need and days when you have more luggage. Here we will introduce two different shapes of PU leather bags available at COWMONO. Please understand the properties of the material and see if it fits with your everyday belongings.

COWMONO SELECTION

Small shoulder bag and large open bag

Carry everyday accessories on your shoulder

PU leather shoulder bag_Unisex_C

This is a PU leather shoulder bag that measures approximately 29 x 20 x 10 cm and weighs approximately 0.6 kg as stated on the product page. It has a slot pocket and a zipper pocket on the inside, and a zippered pocket on the outside. Please compare the dimensions with your everyday wallet or notebook.

See photos and specifications →

Use the large shape as an accent to your outfit.

PU leather BIG shoulder bag_B

A large bag made of PU leather and nylon lining. The opening is open with no zipper and has pockets on the inside and outside. If you are concerned about the ease of taking out your luggage, please check the product photo to see how big it is when you hold it and the shape of the opening.

See photos and specifications →

Dimensions and materials are based on the description on each product page. Please check the product page for storage availability, colors, and sales status.

If you're going to pair it with denim on a holiday, it's best to match the color of your bag to the color of your shoes and belt to make the whole look look cohesive. On the other hand, on days when you want your bag to be the focal point, try limiting the number of colors in your clothes. Once you know the difference between the materials, please enjoy wearing them.

“Eco-friendly” is not determined by the name of the material alone.

PU leather has the aspect of being an option that does not use animal skin as the main material. However, this alone cannot guarantee that the overall environmental impact of the product is low. This is because there is a wide range of things to look at, including the raw materials for resins and base fabrics, manufacturing, shelf life, and disposal.

Even if you want to avoid animal-derived materials, check the product information, including not only the outer material, but also the handle, attachments, adhesive, etc. The material name "PU leather" alone does not mean that we have confirmed everything about the product.

When explaining new materials, check the scope and scope.

There are also materials with improved manufacturing methods and raw materials, such as water-based resins and plant-derived materials. However, this innovation is not adopted in all PU products. It's one thing to contain plant-derived ingredients, but it's another thing to be decomposed in nature.

``What and how much are we using?'' ``Which process are we reducing the load?'' With such an explanation, you can take your selection a step further than the advertising words. In everyday life, choose a bag that suits the occasion and continue to use it according to the instructions. This is also something you can do to reduce unnecessary replacement purchases.

Frequently asked questions about PU leather

Is PU leather genuine leather?

PU leather based on common cloth is not genuine leather. However, there are also composite materials, such as leather with a resin surface treatment. If you're confused just by the name, check the product description or the store to see if the base material is cloth or animal leather.

Does PU leather look cheap?

The impression will change depending on the strength of the gloss, the expression of the grain, the sewing, the metal fittings, and the shape, so the name of the material alone is not enough. In the photo, look not only at the front, but also at the sides and close-up of the handle. It is also important to choose calm colors and sizes that match your clothes.

Can I use it without worrying even on rainy days?

Depends on product specifications. Even if the surface repels water, water can still get in through the seams and openings. If it gets wet, remove the moisture and do not store it damp.

Can I use cream made for genuine leather?

You cannot use it just because it is made for genuine leather. Please check the compatibility with PU/synthetic leather and the instruction manual on the bag side. Avoid adding oil to repair sticky or peeling surfaces.

Which lasts longer, PU or PVC?

It is not possible to assign a common ranking to all products based only on the type of resin. It depends on the composition and thickness of the material, and the environment in which it is used and stored. Check the specifications and care methods to choose one that suits your purpose.

Knowing the material will make it easier to choose the bag you like.

PU leather has a leather-like look and the charm of incorporating your favorite designs into your everyday life. On the other hand, it deteriorates differently than genuine leather, and the same care cannot be applied to it. If you choose with this in mind, you can reduce the chance of mismatching your expectations.

If you want to develop the texture over time, choose genuine leather that is suitable for aging. If you want to incorporate your favorite color or shape into your current outfit, PU leather is also an option. Whichever you choose, the final decision is whether you want to take it with you or not. When you find a bag you like, check the material section and imagine using it in your daily life.

Author information

Author name: Yama (Cowmono Owner)

Self-introduction: Engaged in sales and marketing for more than a quarter at domestic and overseas apparel companies. He has a deep knowledge of fashion, sports, outdoor activities, and subculture.

COWMONO official Instagram@cowmono_official