Leather vs faux leather ǀ Yarwood Leather (2024)

FAQs

Leather vs faux leather ǀ Yarwood Leather? ›

The fundamental difference between the two is that genuine leather is made from animal hides, such as cattle, buffalo or oxen. Faux leather is made from a plastic base and is then treated with wax, dye or polyurethane to create the colour and texture.

Faux leather products also wear out and need to be replaced much more often than real leather, which just compounds the impact. Real leather products can last for decades where faux leather may only last for a few years at most. Whichever you choose, it's important to know what you're getting.

PU fabric has a shiny surface and is soft to the touch. However, this synthetic material will not last as long as faux leather. Pu leather wear down much easier, the top layers begin to crack and tear. Faux leather is a much better quality lamination which lasts considerably longer and rarely becomes warped or cracked.

While many faux leathers are attractive because they are easy to clean with harsh chemicals, the laminated surface often cracks after only a few years of use. Genuine leather, on the other hand, has been known to last for 10 to 20 years or longer.

Full-grain leather is considered the highest quality, and is left in the most natural state: It is not split at all, and consists of the entire top layer of the leather. It is durable, and maintains many of the natural characteristics and inconsistencies of the leather.

Faux leather is much less durable than real leather. It tends to crack and peel over time, with poor quality pieces losing their original finish in just a few months. Because faux leather is manmade, this peeling and cracking can't be undone, and your sofa will continue to degrade over time.

The edges of the leather apparel or furniture are also a good indicator of its authenticity. Fake leather will have a perfect, smooth edge that feels a little like plastic whereas genuine leather has a more natural, rough edge.

Smell the Material

To determine if leather is real, pay attention to the smell. Because real leather is made from animal hide, it should have a noticeable aroma that smells very natural. Fake leather smells quite different—either odorless, like chemicals, or plasticy.

One significant change is the increasing adoption of vegan leather by luxury brands. Traditionally associated with opulence and extravagance, these high-end labels are now embracing cruelty-free alternatives without compromising on style or quality.

If you can get a glimpse at the back of the leather, you may be able to determine if it's fake (or not). Often a leather-like surface is glued or laminated to fabric or a paper-like material. Real leather may be rough or smooth, finished or not. It also may differ in color a bit from the finished top side grain.

How many years does faux leather last? ›

The lifespan of faux leather can vary depending on the quality of the material and how well it is maintained. Generally, good-quality faux leather can last anywhere from 2 to 5 years with proper care. Regular cleaning, avoiding harsh chemicals, and keeping it away from direct sunlight can help extend its durability.

#4 Avoid Exposure: Exposure to direct sunlight or extreme temperatures can cause faux leather to crack and peel. Keep your faux leather items in a cool, dry place when not in use. If you are storing them for a long period of time, wrap them in a cloth or cover to protect them from dust and dirt.

Full grain is the longest lasting, highest quality grade of leather available. It holds the pattern of the animal's skin and has a soft, natural look and warm feel. Because it comes from the top layer of the cow's hide, full grain leather is stronger and more breathable than others.

Any leather product which looks machine-made should be avoided. Also, avoid any products which have a lot of blemishes. Avoid bonded leather, which is made from various leather straps. Overall, a good leather product will have a fine texture.

Listed from best quality to worst, the five types, or grades of leather are full grain leather, top grain leather, genuine leather (also known as premium leather), split-grain leather and bonded leather.

Overall, among all of the leather materials, kangaroo hide is the toughest. If you can't afford a boot that's made with kangaroo leather, consider buying a pair of tough leather boots on the lower end of the scale.

Faux leather materials are low maintenance products unlike leather. They do not fade, crack, become stiff and are usually stain-free. Also, as artificial leather is man-made leather; they are available in range of colors and shades. If one wants to have a uniform look, artificial leather is the best option.

Faux leather has been popular for decades, since the days of Warm Leatherette, the 1978 single later covered by Grace Jones.