Interesting Facts about Vegan Leather

Vegan leather or faux leather is a material that is made from synthetics such as plastics as other natural materials like cork. Some of the common materials used in making synthetic leathers include polyurethane and polyvinyl chloride (PVC). In essence, vegan leather is fake leather since it is not made from animal skins. It is also known as pleather, a word which is derived from plastic leather.

Some environmentalists have raised concerns about the dangers of this material to the environment and its safety.  For this reason, some people and companies prefer using eco-friendly materials made from vegan leathers derived from natural materials like pineapple leaves, kelp, and cork.

How to Make Vegan Leather

This material is produced using various chemicals. The industrial process that makes this product is also different from the once that make real leather. The most common method of producing faux leather involves bonding a fabric backing together with plastic coating. The types of products used in making these coatings vary a lot and are the once that determines whether the final product is eco-friendly or not.

Even if some vegan leather products are made from PVC, this compound is potentially dangerous, especially when burnt in confined spaces. For instance, it is known for releasing dioxins when burnt. PU is a slightly less damaging and modern form of plastic that has been developed to reduce some of its flaws like the hazardous toxins released during the manufacturing process.

The Smell of Vegan Leather

Faux or vegan leather made with PU or PVC has a strange smell that is associated with the

chemicals that make these products. Its scent is described as fishy, and it is very hard to get rid. Furthermore, PVC releases dangerous toxins that have a nasty smell.

Real Vs. Vegan Leather

The main difference between real and vegan leather is their impact on the environment and animals. The term vegan means an environmentally-friendly product, but this depends on the materials that make it. On the other hand, natural leather is environmentally friendly since it is made from animal skins.

 

How Does Faux Leather Look Like?

As mentioned earlier, faux leather comes in different qualities and forms. Some of them look more leather-like as compared to others. In terms of quality, there isn’t much difference between real and vegan leather. Being synthetic, faux leather is less breathable because its pores are printed onto its surface. Furthermore, it does not form a patina like the one formed on real leather when it ages.