We all know how perfectly textured, durable, and costly genuine leather can be. But do we know there can be other alternatives that are actually worth the price? Yes, there are many substitutes for genuine or original leather that can be used in quite a suitable manner.
The range of faux, synthetic, and mixed leather can be so genuine that it’s hard to tell the difference. Similarly, bonded leather is one such alternative that’s useful in fashion, accessories, clothing, and furniture. If you are still willing to know the difference, you can read the further article.
What is Bonded Leather?
Bonded Leather is a popular term that’s also popular as reconstituted leather or blended leather. In actuality, the making of bonded leather includes a mix of natural and fake leather. That’s where the term “bonded” comes from, which means to mix something by the process of heat or pressure.
The making of bonded leather includes leftover scraps and fibers that are actually from genuine leather. Furthermore, they are mixed with the polyurethane binder and use adhesives to roll them up. To make it appear more like genuine leather, some manufacturers may add more polyurethane for the texture.
As you purchase leather goods, make sure you read the tag as it mentions which leather they are using. Bonded leather is commonly available by a few other names –
- Faux leather
- Soft leather
- Vinyl
- Composite
- Reconstituted
Generally, bonded leather comprises only 20% of genuine or real leather. More so, with the use of high finishing, some marketers are selling bonded leather as real leather for an excessive amount.
What are the applications of Bonded Leather?
There can be different uses of bonded leather for producing various goods. Some of the commonly manufactured products of bonded leather include –
- Furniture
- Fashion accessories
- Book covers
- Shoe components
- Western belts Handbags
- Briefcases
You can also create a lot of other things with the help of bonded leather. Many manufacturers are using it for horse riding accessories, such as – horse bridles, English saddle flaps, harnesses, and many other items. In general, you must be careful while purchasing leather goods, as they may be a few things misplaced with bonded leather items.
How to differentiate between Real Leather and Bonded Leather?
As you know, it’s hard to tell the difference between bonded leather and genuine leather. Many users are buying bonded leather, thinking it’s genuine leather, and paying high prices simultaneously. Moreover, telling the difference between real leather and bonded leather can be helpful while shopping in order to pay a reasonable amount.
The price difference is the best way to tell the difference between bonded and original leather. It’s rare to come across real leather goods and find them at a low price range. Therefore, you should always consider buying real leather products that are sold at a low price range.
On the other hand, real leather is always thicker than bonded leather. More so, using bonded leather will feel synthetic in comparison with genuine leather. In addition, the feel of real leather is always texture, whereas bonded leather will be smoother in touch.
Advantages & Disadvantages of Bonded Leathers
As you look forward to buying goods made of bonded leather, it’s equally important to know its pros and cons. These can be helpful for people to purchase different items made out of bonded leather.
Advantages:
- The price is lower than that of genuine leather.
- It has a smooth and convenient texture that appears good.
- The material smells more like genuine or real leather and not like artificial or synthetic ones.
- There are various styles and colors of articles made out of bonded leather.
Disadvantages:
- They are not as long-lasting as real leather products.
- It will easily degrade with time and may also peel off, making the product look unattractive.
- The product is not vegan and does not fall under the category of good leather.
- The color may fade away in the sunlight.
- It’s hard to clean the surface of bonded leather.
Conclusion:
Even considering buying bonded leather products, ensure you get them at a reasonable price and good quality. If anyone is less likable to compare the prices, they can take help from an expert. Also, it’s hard to buy saddles online that are a byproduct of bonded leather. Moreover, you can buy other horse riding accessories that are available at a reasonable price range.
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