What is Genuine Leather?

Genuine Leather: The Truth Behind the Label

Leather, due to its high-end appeal, versatility, and durability is considered an essential material. However, when it comes to choosing the right leather type, Genuine Leather is often misunderstood. Many leather consumers believe that this leather is of the highest quality, but it's not true- its quality is considered low as compared to full-grain and top-grain leather. Though genuine leather is made from real animal hide, for its usability and appearance go through comprehensive processing steps. In this article, we will explore the qualities of genuine leather, how it is made, its comparison with other types of leather, and whether it is worth your investment or not.

What Is Genuine Leather?

Genuine leather- a leather made from real animal hide, but still it doesn't make it a top-notch quality leather. This leather is made from the lower layers of the hide, which goes through a proper process, then bonded, and then treated to make it a proper and finished leather product. Unlike other leather-like top-grain or full-grain leather, which consists of the best natural layers of the hide, genuine leather is divided into premium layers and then this leather is used in making other products.

The manufacturing process of genuine leather involves sanding it before applying artificial coats and finishes to enhance its texture and appearance. This leather at the end, receives various finishes which include dyes along with embossed patterns and protective coatings to create a natural and strong appearance. This process makes genuine leather visually attractive, but on the other hand, it loses its natural breathability and natural texture.

How Is Genuine Leather Made?

The manufacturing of genuine leather requires various stages:

1. Splitting – The first stage is splitting- in which the hide gets divided into various layers. The topmost layers which include full-grain and top-grain receive premium product treatment while on the other hand, lower layers become genuine leather.

2. Sanding and Buffing – This stage involves the process of smoothing out the leather to remove the rough surface imperfections from it, through sanding and buffing.

3. Dyeing and Coating – Artificial coloring and finishing treatments are done to enhance the product's texture and appearance. 

4. Stitching and Assembly –Then the finished leather material is used to make belts, wallets, handbags, and furniture manufacturing.

5. Durability- The durability of genuine leather stays intact as it is derived from real animal hide. While the durability is top-notch-genuine leather is not of high-end quality like full-grain and top-grain leather.

Genuine Leather vs. Other Leather Types

To make the right purchase while buying leather and leather materials, it is best to compare it with other leather types:

• Full-Grain Leather – Full-Grain Leather represents the highest quality leather since it is manufactured from the outermost layer of the hide. It preserves its original patterns and surface- while being extraordinarily long-lasting and develops a gorgeous patina over time.

• Top-Grain Leather – Top-Grain is Leather-another high-quality leather that goes through a minimal sanding process to reduce surface flaws which results in a smoother and uniform leather appearance. This leather is of high quality yet durability decreases over time as compared to full-grain leather.

• Genuine Leather – Genuine Leather is considered a lower quality leather than the two above, but still it is derived from real animal hide. This leather is quite affordable but it lacks durability and its ability to age beautifully. 

• Bonded Leather – Bonded Leather is considered the lowest quality leather- manufactured from leather waste with synthetic materials-which is then glued together and coated to form a leather-like look. 

Is Genuine Leather Worth It?

Well, the answer is pretty easy- it depends on your requirements and expectations from the leather. Genuine leather, no doubt, is a perfect leather choice for shoppers who want genuine leather products at affordable rates. Genuine leather gives good durability and a stylish look but it lacks strength, a luxurious feel, and premium quality.

People who buy leather jackets, wallets, belts, and handbags can get satisfactory performance from genuine leather and it will serve you well. However, if you are purchasing jackets, shoes, or furniture that require a luxurious look and longevity then full-grain or top-grain leather is a better option.

Pros and Cons of Genuine Leather

Pros:

• More affordable than premium leather types

• The material exists in multiple design choices and decorative options

• The leather is made from animal hides and differs from manufactured and synthetic materials.

Cons:

• It has less durability than full-grain and top-grain leather

• The material develops peeling as well as cracking issues as it ages.

• It doesn't consist of the natural texture and breathability of premium leather.

How to Identify Genuine Leather?

The following tips will ensure that you are getting genuine leather instead of bonded or synthetic materials:

• Texture – Genuine leather presents an uneven texture whereas synthetic leather consists of a too-smooth uniform surface.

• Smell –The scent of genuine leather remains distinctive because it comes from natural sources whereas synthetic leather emits a plastic odor.

• Water Absorption –Genuine leather absorbs minimal amounts of water yet faux leather prevents water from penetrating its surface.

• Labelling – The products labeled as  "100% genuine leather" confirms the authenticity of the leather but does not guarantee premium quality.

Caring and Maintenance Tips for Genuine Leather

The proper care and maintenance techniques of genuine leather and its products help preserve its texture and longevity. Following are some tips for it:

• Keep It Dry – Exposure to exposure to moisture levels must be avoided since it results in damage to these products.

• Condition Regularly –Applying leather conditioners regularly helps to stop drying and cracking. Clean it with gentle methods by using a damp cloth instead of rough cleaning agents.

• Store Properly – Leather items need proper storage, avoid exposure to direct sunlight along with extreme temperatures.

Final Thoughts

Genuine leather is an amazing leather choice due to its affordability and stylish look but it lacks durability and a luxurious feel. The knowledge of different leather types enables customers to make better purchasing decisions. While, without a doubt, genuine leather is a good and buffet-friendly leather choice, the leather lover who wants premium quality and long-lasting leather goods should invest in full-grain or top-grain leather.  Therefore, choosing the right leather for yourself depends on your needs, expectations, budget, and the natural beauty of leather products.