So many customer are being sold bonded , PU, bicast or faux leather as “Real Leather”. Be very careful to check the materials ( tags) used in the making because even high end companies like Natuzzi are using these manufactured leathers that do not wear well for your investment. Many couches and recliners will have genuine leather on the seat top and back cushion panels but then have faux leather on the sides and backs. Some manufactures even sneek in some vinyl panels. These pieces are often still sold at high prices too! You wont be sold the pieces of furniture with these facts honestly told to you so do your research! These so called leathers do not wear and age well like genuine leather, aren’t a great investment, and most are impossible to repair.

So what are the differences in all the different faux leathers?

Bonded Leather: Is made up of particles or scraps of leather ( think pressed board ). These very thin scraps are then rolled together using adhesives to bind the fibers together, onto a paper backing. A polyurethane coating may be added and embossed to create the texture of real leather. Most bonded leather only contains 10 to 20 percent real leather. It is not durable and is much like paper not being able to have moisture in contact with it. Because it’s so thin, It will crack and peel off of the mesh backing fairly quickly after your purchase, in some cases in only 1 year. Once this starts there is no way to stop the peeling not repair it. Be very careful as to which cleaners you use. Make sure it is mild and without alcohols or oils.

PU or Faux Leather: is a little bit more durable. It is an artificial leather made of thermoplastic polymer. PU leather will be completely vegan. PU leather, is not going to be as durable as real leather, but it will be more durable compared to bonded leather.

Bicast Leather: has actual leather in the make up, is made similar to bonded except they use the fibrous part of cowhide leftover from manufacturing real leather and add a layer of polyurethane on top. Bicast has a bit more durability than bonded. Like bonded be very careful as to which cleaners you use on it. Make sure it is mild and without alcohols or oils.

Our best advice is always to buy genuine leather , even a used leather couch or chair can be restored to look like new at a fraction of the cost of buying new. Foam can be added to fill sagging pillows or seats that need more structure. Stains can be colored over. There area some beautiful pieces out there that people are just wanting to get rid of, sometimes even for free. Try apps like Offer Up or Cherish for higher end brands.