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Short answer
Faux leather is a plastic coating on a fabric backing, made to look like leather. PU (polyurethane) is softer and more leather-like but can peel or crack within a few years, especially in heat and humidity. PVC vinyl is tougher and wipes clean easily but feels stiff and does not breathe. For comfort on a home sofa in Malaysia's climate, a hard-wearing fabric is usually the better choice.
PU vs PVC vs fabric
| PU faux leather | PVC vinyl | Upholstery fabric | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Feel | Soft, leather-like | Firm, plasticky | Soft, breathable |
| In heat | Warm and can feel sticky | Hot and sticky | Stays comfortable |
| Cleaning | Wipe clean | Wipe clean; tolerates stronger cleaners | Vacuum, blot; check the cleaning code |
| Typical problems | Peeling, flaking, cracking | Stiffening, cracking at seams | Pilling, marks on pale colours |
| Best for | Low-use seating, accent chairs | Clinics, cafes, high-hygiene seats | Home sofas, beds, most seating |
Why does faux leather peel?
The PU coating breaks down over time with heat, humidity, sunlight, body oils and some cleaners. Once it starts flaking, it cannot be repaired; the piece has to be recovered. PVC lasts longer but can stiffen and crack, especially in direct sun.
Watch out
Keep faux leather out of direct sun, away from heaters, and clean it only with mild soap and water unless the maker says otherwise. Alcohol and solvent cleaners speed up peeling.
When is faux leather the right choice?
- Seats that must be wiped and disinfected between users, such as some clinic and treatment seating. See Clinic Waiting Room Upholstery.
- Cafe booths with heavy spills, where vinyl is often chosen for wipe-clean seats. See Cafe and Restaurant Upholstery Fabric.
- A low-use accent chair where the look matters more than long life.
What fabric is a good alternative?
A dense, short-pile velvet or tight weave is soft, breathable and long-lasting. In the JOTEX range, YarnGuard PURIFY and REPEL are 100% polyester velvets of about 450 gsm rated at 40,000 Martindale rubs, and BLAKE, MARC and VELA are textured weaves also rated at 40,000. See Fabric Sofa vs Leather Sofa and What Is Performance Fabric?
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between PU and PVC leather?
PU is softer and more leather-like but can peel; PVC vinyl is tougher and easier to clean but stiffer and less comfortable.
How long does PU leather last?
Often only a few years before it peels or cracks, especially in heat, humidity and sun.
Can peeling faux leather be repaired?
Not really. Once the coating flakes, the piece needs recovering.
Is fabric better than faux leather for a sofa?
For most homes in Malaysia, yes: it breathes in the heat and a good upholstery fabric lasts longer.
Curtain maker, upholsterer or designer?
Specifications are public on every collection page. JOTEX dealers can log in for live stock and pricing, and our team can send samples or open a dealer account.