To identify microfiber leather from PU leather, the following points can be used for identification.
1. Observe the cross-sectional structure: The cross-section of microfiber leather presents a three-dimensional fiber structure similar to genuine leather, with fine fibers tightly interwoven. Using a magnifying glass, one can see a multi-layered porous structure resembling a "beehive" or "sponge", with clear layers. Its thickness is usually between 0.6-1.5mm, and some high-end products can reach 2mm. It feels soft and elastic. While PU leather has a smooth PU coating on the surface and a textile base (such as non-woven fabric or knitted fabric) beneath, the two layers are loosely combined, with rough fibers and no interwoven feeling. Its thickness is mostly between 0.5-1.0mm, and the feel is relatively hard or brittle. When bent, it is prone to leaving indelible wrinkles.
2. Check the surface texture and luster: The texture of microfiber leather is naturally fine, with realistic imitation leather patterns (such as lychee patterns or drop patterns) that are very realistic. The luster is soft and not dazzling, and some products may have a slight "pore-like" feeling (not real pores, but a simulated effect of the craftsmanship). Pressing the surface with your finger, you will see wrinkles similar to those of genuine leather, which slowly recover when released. While the texture of PU leather is mostly repetitive patterns mechanically pressed, the patterns are stiff and highly regular, with a bright luster or a distinct plastic feel. The surface is smooth without a pore-like feeling. Pressing causes hard wrinkles that quickly recover or leave permanent marks.
3. Touch test: The feel of microfiber leather is soft and fine, approaching the warm touch of genuine leather, with good flexibility. It is not prone to cracking when bent repeatedly, and can remain soft even in low-temperature environments. There is no obvious rough sensation when rubbed, and its breathability is better than PU leather (some high-end products can simulate the breathability of genuine leather). While the feel of PU leather is relatively hard or sticky, it becomes hard and brittle in winter, and when bent, it is prone to leaving white creases. When rubbed, it has a plastic feel or rough sensation, has poor breathability, and is likely to cause perspiration and discomfort when in contact for a long time.
4. Tearing test: When using a nail or knife blade to scratch the surface of microfiber leather, it is not likely to cause cracks. When forcefully tearing, the fiber structure is tight, and the tear is in a fringed state. While for PU leather, the surface coating is easily scratched, and when torn, the coating separates from the fabric base, with neat and exposed fabric fibers.
5. Burning identification method: When burning microfiber leather, it emits a small amount of black smoke, with a smell similar to leather burning (without a strong plastic smell), and the ashes are in powder form, not clumping. While for PU leather, it burns quickly, emits a large amount of black smoke, and releases a pungent plastic smell (containing chlorine elements), and the ashes will coalesce into hard lumps.
6. Check the label and price method: Microfiber leather is commonly found in mid-to-high-end bags, car interiors, sports shoes, etc. (such as the insoles of high-end shoes of a certain sports brand, the lining of a luxury brand bag). The price is higher, with a unit price of USD6 - USD28 per meter, much higher than ordinary PU leather (USD1 - USD7 per meter). Official products will label "microfiber synthetic leather" or "Microfiber Leather", while the labels of ordinary PU leather are mostly "PU Leather", "Artificial Leather", "PVC Leather", etc., often found in cheap bags, fast fashion clothing, and low-end furniture.
It is worth mentioning that during daily maintenance, ultra-fine fiber leather can be cleaned with special leather cleaners, while PU leather should avoid contact with oils and sharp objects to prevent the coating from peeling off. Some inferior ultra-fine fiber leather may have the situation of cutting corners, and it is necessary to identify it by combining multiple methods. Therefore, when purchasing, it is recommended to choose from regular channels, such as the ultra-fine leather products series produced by Shi hong Leather, which are of high quality and low price, and are favored by domestic and overseas car sofa brand manufacturers. If you have the need to purchase ultra-fine leather and PU leather, please contact our overseas team at any time (WHATSAPP： 0086-18002658713, Email： shihongleather@163.com). Our company will provide products and services beyond your expectations.
