PU leather (polyurethane synthetic leather) is widely used in clothing, furniture and bags because of its low cost, convenient processing and similar appearance to real leather. However, its weather resistance and anti-aging performance is relatively weak, if not properly used or maintained, it is easy to crack, decolletage and other problems. Here are some practical methods to prevent PU leather cracking, including daily use, cleaning and maintenance, and environmental control:
1.What to know about everyday use
Avoid contact with sharp objects
PU leather has a soft surface and sharp objects (such as keys, nails, metal buckles, etc.) can easily scratch or puncture the surface, causing local cracking.
Advice: Keep away from sharp objects when using or storing, and add a soft cloth or cover when touching hard objects.
Control intensity and frequency of use.
Frequent bending and stretching (such as frequently opening and closing bags and repeatedly folding seats) can accelerate PU leather fatigue and lead to creasing and cracking.
Advice: Reduce unnecessary bending and avoid maintaining the same bending posture for long periods of time; for furniture PU leather products (such as sofas), adjust your sitting position regularly to disperse pressure.
Preventing chronic high pressure;
Long-term stacking of heavy objects,such as bags or boxes under heavy objects, can cause PU leather to deform, internal fibres to break and cause cracking.
Advice: When not in use, keep PU leather smooth to avoid being crushed by heavy objects; for furniture, flip cushions or backrests regularly.
II. Cleaning and Maintenance Tips
Gentle cleaning
Clean options: Avoid cleaning products that contain alcohol, solvents (such as acetone, benzene) or strong acids and alkalis that dissolve PU surface coatings, causing brittleness and cracking.
Cleaning methods:
Wipe the stain gently with a soft cloth or a sponge soaked with a neutral detergent,such as diluted dishwashing liquid.
Stubborn stains can be treated with a small amount of toothpaste (non-gel) or a special PU leather cleaner, but must be tested in an inconspicuous place first.
Wash and dry with a dry cloth to avoid moisture residue.
Regular maintenance
Use special skin care products: PU leather skin care products can form protective film, enhance surface flexibility, reduce the risk of cracking.
METHODS: After cleaning, apply a small amount of nursing liquid evenly with soft cloth and let dry naturally.
Maintenance frequency: should be maintained every 3 to6 months and adjusted for specific frequency of use.
Avoid oily substances: Oily skincare products, cosmetics or cooking oil may leach into PU leather, causing local softening or discoloration that can affect long-term durability.
Advice: Wash immediately after exposure to oily substances and avoid prolonged exposure.
Repair minor damage
If small cracks or layers appear on the surface, they can be filled with a special PU leather repair paste and lightly sanded to smoothen the surface and prevent cracks from spreading.
III. Environmental control
Avoid high temperatures and direct sunlight
PU leather can become brittle due to thermal expansion and shrinkage or freeze cracking if exposed to high temperatures (e.g. direct sunlight, near a heating systems) or low temperatures (e.g. outdoors in winter) for prolonged periods.
Recommendations:
Furniture, PU leather should be kept away from heat sources (such as stoves, radiators, etc.) to avoid direct sunlight.
When not in use, luggage and bags should be stored in a cool, dry place to avoid prolonged exposure to heat, such as the trunk.
Controlling humidity
Humid environments,such as bathrooms and basements, tend to cause PU leather to absorb moisture and expand, then contract when dry. Repeated circulation accelerates cracking.
Recommendations:
Use a dehumidifier or dryer to keep the environment dry.
If PU leather is damp, first use a dry cloth to absorb moisture, then place it in a ventilated area to dry naturally to avoid direct sunlight or high temperatures.
Mildew-proof treatment
Moisture can also cause mold to grow, and enzymes secreted by mold can corrode the surface of PU leather, causing it to crack.
Recommendations:
Rub PU leather surface regularly with a soft cloth to keep it clean.
When mold spots are discovered, dab with diluted alcohol and apply a conditioner after drying naturally.
IV. INTRODUCTION Recommendations for long-term storage
Wash, dry and store: when not in use for a long time, rinse and dry polyurethane leather products thoroughly to avoid corrosion due to stains or residual moisture.
Filling support: For easily deformed products such as luggage and sofas, the interior is filled with soft materials (such as old towels and foam) to maintain shape and reduce wrinkles.
Hanging or tiling: Cloth polyurethane leather products are recommended to be hung to avoid creases caused by folding; furniture can be covered with a dustproof cloth to reduce dust accumulation.
