What is PU? PU stands for Polyurethane, a widely used polymer that can be made into foams, coatings, etc. When PU is applied in leather, it is made into PU leather, namely polyurethane leather, which belongs to a kind of artificial leather. PU leather imitates the appearance and touch of real leather and is very suitable for making fashionable bags, shoes and other products.
This post will explore the characteristics of PU and PU leather material, as well as the advantages and disadvantages of using it to make bags. If you are creating your own bag brand and considering which material is better for making bags, PU leather might be worth your choice.
What is PU?
PU is the abbreviation of polyurethane, a multi-purpose synthetic polymer. Due to its customizable properties, it is widely used in industries such as foams, coatings, adhesives, and textiles, ranging from soft foams to rigid coatings.
PU is a multi-functional and durable polymer (plastic). It can be as hard as a car bumper or as soft and flexible as a foam pad.
PU is produced through a chemical reaction between two key components: isocyanate (a compound with an active -NCO group) and polyol (an organic compound with multiple hydroxy-OH groups), which is usually combined with a catalyst, plasticizer or filler to adjust its performance.
The characteristics of PU
Polyurethane is widely used because it can be designed according to specific needs. It has the following characteristics:
- Versatility: It can be made into flexible (such as foam) or rigid (such as insulation), transparent or colored, smooth or textured.
- Durability: Wear-resistant, water-resistant (water damage), making it suitable for high-use items for a long time.
- Water resistance: Many PU formulations repel water, making them ideal coatings, outdoor gear, or artificial leather.
- Adhesion: It has excellent adhesion to other materials (fabrics, wood, metals), which is why it is used as a coating or adhesive.
- Comfort: Flexible PU foam conforms to the shape and provides cushioning for furniture or footwear.
The main applications of PU
The adaptability of PU makes it ubiquitous in daily life. The following are its most common uses:
a. Fashion and textiles
- PU leather: A popular alternative to vegan animal leathers such as crocodile or cowhide, used for making handbags, jackets, shoes and interior decoration. It is cheaper, easier to clean and does not use animal products.
- Coated fabrics: PU-coated textiles are used in raincoats, tents and sportswear to make them waterproof while maintaining breathability (unlike plastics such as PVC).
- Footwear: PU elastomers form the soles (flexibility) and insoles (cushioning), while PU leather is used for the uppers.
b. Furniture and bedding
- Soft padding: Soft PU foam is the main filler for sofas, armchairs and bed pillows. Memory foam (a special type of PU foam) is used for depressurizing mattresses.
- Interior decoration: Compared with genuine leather, PU leather is a low-maintenance furniture option (resistant to stains and fading).
c. Structure and insulation
- Rigid PU foam: Used for isolating buildings (reducing energy costs for heating/cooling) and electrical appliances such as refrigerators/freezers (capturing cold air).
- Adhesives and sealants: PU-based adhesives are used to bond wood, metal and plastic in construction (such as floor installation) or manufacturing (such as car assembly).
d. Automobiles and industry
- Automotive parts: PU is used for car seats (foam cushioning), door panels (rigid PU) and wind and rain shields (elastic PU).
- Industrial equipment: Rigid PU coatings protect machinery from corrosion, while PU elastomers manufacture durable hoses, belts and gaskets.
e. Medical and packaging
- Medical devices: Sterile PU films are used for surgical gauze, wound dressings (waterproof barriers), and disposable gloves (latex-free alternatives).
- Packaging: Rigid polyurethane foam protects electronic products, glassware or fragile items during transportation, while thin polyurethane films wrap food (such as cooked meat) to maintain freshness.
Common Forms of PU
PU exists in multiple physical forms, each designed for distinct applications:
| Form | Description |
| Flexible Foam | Soft, porous, and elastic. Used in mattresses, couch cushions, pillow fill, and shoe insoles. Memory foam (a type of PU foam) uses temperature sensitivity to mold to the body. |
| Rigid Foam | Dense and stiff, with excellent insulating properties. Used for building insulation (walls, roofs), refrigerator liners, and packaging (to protect fragile items). |
| PU Coating | Thin, protective layer applied to surfaces. Common on fabrics (e.g., rain jackets, upholstery) to add water resistance, or on wood/floors to enhance durability and shine. |
| PU Film/Sheet | Thin, solid sheets used for packaging (food wraps), textile laminates (waterproof clothing), or medical devices (disposable gloves). |
| PU Elastomer | Rubber-like elasticity. Used for shoe soles, automotive hoses, gaskets, and sports equipment (e.g., yoga mats, dumbbell grips). |
| PU Leather | Also called “faux leather” or “vegan leather.” A textured PU coating applied to a fabric base (e.g., polyester) to mimic the look/feel of real leather. Used in bags, furniture, and apparel. |
What is PU leather?
PU leather, abbreviated as polyurethane leather, is a synthetic material designed to replicate the texture and appearance of genuine leather. It is made by coating a layer of polyurethane (a thermoplastic polymer) on a fabric base such as polyester, cotton or nylon. This process endows PU leather with a leather-like feel, flexibility and cost-effectiveness, making it widely used as a vegetarian and cost-effective alternative to genuine leather.
The advantages of PU leather
- Affordable – Much cheaper than genuine leather.
- Animal-friendly – vegetarian, if not from dermal base.
- Waterproof – Easier to clean than genuine leather.
- Consistent appearance – no natural flaws like genuine leather.
Disadvantages of PU leather
- Not very durable – Over time, it is prone to cracking or peeling.
- Non-aging – Unlike genuine leather, it does not develop patina.
- Not breathable – will feel hot or sticky.
Artificial odor – may have a plastic or chemical smell.
Applications of PU leather
- Fashion: Jackets, shoes, handbags, belts and wallets.
- Automobile: Seat interior, steering wheel cover and interior, for a high-quality appearance, without the high cost of genuine leather.
- Furniture: Sofas, chairs and headboards, providing durability and easy cleaning in high-traffic areas.
- Footwear: The upper and insole are lightweight, comfortable and reasonably priced.
- Home decoration: Curtains, carpets and decorative items with the beauty of leather.
- Accessories: Watch strap, phone case, belt.
PU Leather vs. Other Materials
| Material | Pros | Cons |
| PU Leather | Cheap, vegan, water-resistant | Peels easily, short lifespan |
| Genuine Leather | Durable, breathable, develops patina | Expensive, requires maintenance |
| Bonded Leather | Uses leather scraps, very low cost | Very poor durability, flakes quickly |
| PVC Leather | Waterproof, rigid | Non-breathable, contains toxins |
How to identify PU leather?
- Label check: Look for “100% PU”, “vegan leather” or “synthetic”.
- Texture: Feels overly smooth or plastic; Lack of natural texture variations.
- Edge inspection: The edges show a fabric substrate rather than uniform leather.
- Odor: It has a chemical or plastic smell, rather than a natural leather smell.
PU leather care tips
- Cleaning: Use a damp cloth and mild soap; Avoid using irritating chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
- Storage: Avoid direct sunlight and heat to prevent cracking.
- Avoid scratches: Handle with care as PU leather is more prone to surface damage than genuine leather.
PU material bag is good or not?
Yes, PU leather is a very good material for making bags. Of course, whether PU material bags are good or bad entirely depends on the priorities of your bag brand: brand positioning, cost budget and ethical values.
PU material bags have obvious advantages, making them a popular choice for many people, but they also have limitations that need to be considered.
The core advantages of PU leather material bags
The appearance and texture are close to genuine leather
PU leather material can simulate the texture and luster of natural leather through modern technology. Its surface is smooth and soft, with a fine touch. It can even achieve various colors and patterns, meeting the demands of fashion. It has an excellent decorative effect, can enhance the user’s temperament, and is suitable for consumers who pursue appearance but have a limited budget.
It has outstanding durability and functionality
- Wear-resistant and tear-resistant: After special treatment, the PU leather material has significantly improved wear resistance, making it suitable for high-frequency usage scenarios (such as daily commuting and travel).
- Waterproof and stain-resistant: The surface is dense and easy to clean. When exposed to water or stains, it can be wiped clean with a damp cloth to restore its cleanliness. The maintenance cost is low.
- Strong anti-aging property: It is not prone to hardening, fading or cracking in low-temperature or strong light environments, and has a long service life.
- Diverse styles: It can be made in any color, texture or pattern (such as artificial crocodile skin or patented finish), providing great diversity.
Lightness and comfort
PU leather material is lightweight and imposes a small burden when carried, making it especially suitable for long-term carrying (such as student file bags and mom’s handbag). The shoulder strap is designed in an ergonomic way to reduce shoulder pressure.
Environmental protection and cost advantages
- Animal-friendly: No animal leather involved, in line with environmental and ethical requirements, and consistent with a vegetarian lifestyle.
- Affordable price: This is the greatest advantage. The cost of PU leather bags is lower than that of genuine leather ones. It is easy to purchase fashionable styles, which can meet the needs of different consumption levels.
The potential limitations of PU leather material bags
Insufficient air permeability
Although PU material has been treated for breathability, it still lags behind genuine leather. Prolonged contact with the skin may cause a stuffy feeling, making it suitable as an outer bag rather than a close-fitting garment. PU leather is not breathable. This is not the main problem of the bag, but it is worth noting.
The adaptability to extreme environments is limited
Under extreme high temperatures or prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, PU leather materials may age more rapidly, leading to problems such as hardening and fading. It is necessary to avoid prolonged exposure to harsh environments.
The market quality is uneven
- High-quality PU: Made from imported raw materials, it is wear-resistant, anti-aging and has high color fastness, but its price is close to that of low-end genuine leather.
- Low-quality PU: Made from leftover materials or rough processing, it is prone to fading and deformation, has a hard touch, and poor durability. Consumers need to distinguish quality through details such as brand, touch and smell. Low-quality PU can have a distinct plastic-like luster and feel, lacking the high-quality appearance and feel of leather.
Non-environmentally friendly factors
- Difficult to biodegrade: This is a petroleum-based plastic that cannot be biodegraded. Although it is better than PVC, it is still not an environmentally friendly and sustainable choice.
- Synthetic feel and smell: This material will have a unique chemical or plastic smell, especially when it is new. It also lacks the unique touch, texture and natural defects of genuine leather.
Uneconomical factors
- Short lifespan: Low-quality PU bags may be have a short service life (usually 1-3 years with frequent use). The coating is prone to peeling, cracking or flaking off, especially along the edges and handles.
- Low resale value: PU leather material bags have almost no resale value, unlike well-maintained genuine leather bags that can become antique treasures.
Comparison: PU Leather vs. Genuine Leather
| Feature | PU Leather | Genuine Leather |
| Material | Polyurethane (Plastic) coating on fabric | Animal hide (e.g., cow, sheep) |
| Durability | Moderate (prone to peeling) | High (lasts decades if cared for) |
| Cost | Low | High |
| Breathability | Low to Moderate | High |
| Appearance | Very uniform, can look artificial | Unique, natural grain, develops a patina |
| Care | Easy to wipe clean | Requires conditioning and care |
| Environmental | Petroleum-based, not biodegradable | Natural but has a high resource footprint |
Who should choose a PU leather bag? Who should avoid it?
| Choose a PU Bag If… | Avoid a PU Bag If… |
| You’re on a budget and want style. | You want a long-term investment bag (e.g., a “forever” tote or luxury handbag). |
| You prioritize animal welfare (vegan/ethical). | You prefer the natural feel, patina, and durability of genuine leather. |
| You need a low-maintenance bag for daily use (e.g., commuting, shopping). | You live in a hot/sunny climate (PU fades/cracks faster in UV). |
| You like to switch bag styles/colors frequently. | You want a bag with resale value (e.g., luxury designer bags). |
PU leather material is most suitable for items where cost and ethics outweigh durability requirements, such as fast fashion bags or low-usage furniture.
For brands positioned as high-end bags, animal leather bags or other high-quality vegan alternatives such as cork leather or apple leather can be considered.
Conclusion
PU leather is a practical and cost-effective choice. The appearance of bags made of PU Leather material is close to real leather, fashionable and beautiful. Wear-resistant and waterproof, easy to maintain on a daily basis, and moderate durability. The price is affordable. It is also environmentally friendly and harmless to animals, making it an excellent natural alternative to genuine leather.
If you are running your own bag brand and want to choose PU leather to manufacture your bags, welcome to contact our PU bag factory to manufacture high-quality bags for you.