Leather is a popular material used in various products, such as clothing, accessories, furniture car interiors, etc. When it comes to purchasing leather items, it can be challenging to distinguish between real and fake leather. However, with the rise of synthetic material and sharp marketing tactics, it’s becoming difficult to know the difference between real and phony leather which looks very similar due to the synthetic material used.
In this article, we will explore 5 proven ways to spot real leather from fake and provide practical tips and methods for distinguishing between the two. Whether you are a seasoned leather enthusiast or just starting to learn about leather, this article will help you make informed purchasing decisions and give you the expertise to check quick quality facts.
Difference Between Real And Fake Leather
Before we dive into 5 proven ways to spot real leather from fake, you should know the differences between the two. Real leather comprises animal hides such as sheepskin, cowhide, or pigskin and is a by-product of the livestock industry. It has a rough, natural, and organic look and smell. Fake or artificial leather is made of plastic or synthetic components such as nylon, polyurethane (PU), and Polyvinyl chloride (PVC). It has smooth edges and even texture. It smells like plastic and can burn more easily, it shrinks and curls with heat. Fake leather is less expensive than original leather and has less durability than the real one.
List of 5 Proven Ways To Spot Real Leather From Fake
- Check The Texture And Natural Grain
- Look For Real Leather Labels or Stamp
- Scan The Edges And Seams
- Verify Leather Smell
- Check The Price
1. Check The Texture And Natural Grain
The first and easiest way to spot original leather from artificial is to check its texture and grain. As mentioned above, real leather has an organic, natural, and irregular texture that often has wrinkles, scars, and some other imperfections on it. Artificial leather, on the other hand, has a smooth, plain, and uniform texture that looks too perfect to be real.
To check the texture and grain, run your hand over its surface. If it is real, it will feel soft and flexible. If it is fake, it will feel rigid and stiff. However, If you feel confused about its softness or stiffness. You can also use a magnifying glass to examine the natural grain more closely. Real leather will have a natural, irregular grain pattern, while fake leather will have a uniform, repeating pattern.
2. Look For Real Leather Labels or Stamp
Another way to spot real leather from fake is to look for the leather stamp or label. Real leather products are often stamped or labeled with the type of leather used, such as “Full-Grain Leather” or “Top-Grain Leather” or must be labeled as “ made with the animal product”. On the other hand, fake leather mostly has no label because the manufacturers try to hide the fake leather quality, but sometimes it is labeled with PU leather, pleather, or vegan leather.
To check the leather stamp, analyze the product carefully. Look for a small label or stamp on the underside of the product, or the packaging. If you can’t find any labeling or stamping on the product, it may be a sign of fake or artificial leather.
3. Scan The Edges And Seams
Checking the edges and seams of a leather product can also give away whether it is real or fake. Real leather items have rough, unfinished edges that are often described by a natural, wavy pattern. While fake leather items have smooth, finished edges that are often too perfect to be real.
To check the edges and seams, examine the product. Look for rough, unfinished edges and natural wavy patterns. You can also check the seams by running your hand along the stitching. Real leather seams should feel strong and secure. Fake leather seams may feel weak and flimsy.
4. Verify Leather Smell
It is the most obvious and easy approach to check the smell of the leather product to know whether it is real or not. Real leather is made of animal hide so it will smell organic, earthy, and natural. Fake leather may have a strong chemical or plastic smell.
To check the smell of the leather, you should take a sniff and observe. If it smells organic and earthy, it is original leather. If it smells chemical or plastic, it is fake or artificial leather.
5. Check The Price
Finally, the price of the leather product can also help us to differentiate between real and fake leather products. Generally, real leather products are more expensive than fake leather products, due to the natural, organic, and high quality as well as durability of the material as it stays in good condition for years. While synthetic or faux leather is easy to make with cheap materials.
To check the prices, research the market value of the leather products. If the price seems too good to be true, it is a sign that the leather product is made from synthetic or fake leather.
Conclusion
In conclusion, distinguishing between real and fake leather requires a combination of knowledge, expertise, and practical skills. By understanding the differences between genuine and artificial leather, and by using tips mentioned in the article, you can increase your chances of purchasing high-quality, real leather products.
Spotting real leather from a lot of fake leather varieties can be a challenging task, but by using these 5 proven and quick methods, you can make informed purchasing decisions. Always remember real leather is a natural and breathable material. Before purchasing make sure to check the texture and grain of the leather, look for the stamp and labels under the product, check the edges and seams, smell the leather, and check the prices. By following these 5 measures and tips, the next time you are in the market for a leather product, don't be fooled by fake leather.
FAQS
What is the difference between real and fake leather?
Real leather is made from animal hides, typically cowhide or sheepskin. It's a natural and breathable material. While fake leather is composed of synthetic materials such as PU and PVC.
How can I tell if a leather product is real or fake just by looking at it?
Real leather tends to have a natural, irregular texture and grain pattern, while fake leather is often smooth and uniform. Moreover, real leather may have some imperfections such as wrinkles, scars, or scratches, while fake leather is often flawless.
Can fake leather be just as durable as real leather?
While fake leather can be durable it is not often as durable as real leather. Real leather can last for decades with proper care, while fake leather may start to crack, peel, or fade after just a few years. Additionally, real leather tends to improve a beautiful patina over time, while fake one may lose its color and texture with time.
How can I ensure that I am buying a real leather product?
Research the seller, read reviews, and look for certifications such as labels and stamps. Real leather products are often labeled with tags like “Full Grain Leather” or “Top Grain Leather”, while fake leather may not be labeled mostly if you look labeled like “Faux Leather” or “PU Leather” will be a fake leather product.