Eco-leather, leatherette, leatherette: What is better in the car interior?

1. How eco-leather cases are made
2. Types of eco-leather for the automotive industry
3. Eco-leather analogues and fakes
4. Popular brands of automotive leatherette
5. Wrong side of eco leather
6. How to choose the right material for car seats?
7. How to care for leather car covers?
8. Table: eco leather care
9. How do covers behave in the cold?

Artificial materials that imitate natural leather have not been rejected by consumers for a long time.
Their use is even welcomed by animal activists. The name eco-leather promises wonderful properties. And it does not disappoint expectations. This is a durable, beautiful material without a chemical smell. Eco-leather shoes are comfortable, as if they were made of natural chrome or suede. Haberdashery made from this material can easily be passed off as a branded leather product.

Case manufacturers can also cheat. Eco-leather for cars is often counterfeited. This does not mean that there is a counterfeit workshop somewhere in the basement. They simply offer polyvinyl chloride and vinyl leatherette (colloquially leatherette) to gullible buyers.

These materials may look solid, but sitting on them for a long time is hot and uncomfortable. This is how conflicting reviews from owners about new covers or upholstery of car seats appear.

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How eco-leather cases are made

All leatherettes are made using similar technologies. A layer of polymer is applied to the fabric base, then a roller or press extrudes a textured pattern that imitates the front side of natural leather. Either a crocodile or an ostrich. The difference between eco-leather and leatherette is that polyurethane is applied to the fabric.

To understand why eco-leather car seat covers are comfortable for the driver and passengers, you need to become more familiar with polyurethane. Of course, not at the level of a chemical engineer. If you show yourself to be a competent buyer, the seller will change his mind about passing off cheap material as expensive. Car covers made from high-quality leatherette can sometimes be sold as eco-leather covers. The finished interior will impress the customer, but the seats will quickly wear down to the fabric base.

Vinyl and polyvinyl chloride

Vinyl and polyvinyl chloride, which are used to make seat upholstery in public transport, have a distinct chemical odor. In winter, even through your clothes you can feel how cold they are. In summer, exposed parts of the body stick to them. Dozens of passengers sit on the seats per flight; it is easier to maintain the appearance of cleanliness on smooth oilcloth. That’s why intercity buses have textile capes on passenger seats, otherwise travel would turn into torture.

Polyurethane

Polyurethane has a molecular structure that differs from vinyl. When children's shoes were made strictly according to GOST from genuine leather, polyurethane was used on the sole. It was believed that it allows enough air to pass through. The raw materials looked like durable plates of white, finely porous material.

This structure, similar to a thick layer of natural leather, is formed by special organic molecules. They give the material increased tensile and compressive strength and resistance to mechanical abrasion.

The wear resistance of polyurethane can be judged by its use in technology and industry. It is used to make car tires, shock-absorbing gaskets in heavy equipment, and seals in aggressive environments. In medicine, it is used to make implants and prostheses. The claim that this is an environmentally friendly material is not unfounded.

The basis for applying the polyurethane layer is cotton or polyester fabric. It can be woven or knitted fabric. The second option is more plastic - when upholstering chairs with a streamlined shape. These eco-leather covers are easier to put on the seats yourself. What the base is made of does not play a big role. It is hidden in a layer of polymer. It is believed that eco-leather on polyester is stronger and more durable.

Some types of natural leather for furniture upholstery and car seats are coated with a thin layer of polyurethane. It hides minor imperfections and makes the skin resistant to abrasion. And makes the difference between genuine leather and eco-leather invisible.

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Rating of manufacturers of eco-leather cases

Below is a table of the most popular cover manufacturers.

A large assortment of car capes can be found at the manufacturer AZARD Group.

T-shirts from Azard

Attention! It is this factory that produces the Senator brand, under which capes are supplied to Russia.

In 2014, after reorganization, the factory became a holding company. Production began in Russia and Japan. The most widespread collection of covers was the Senator Jackward line. As a raw material, the factory uses jacquard, decorated with polyester inserts. The advantages of the covers will be pleasant to the touch and durability. They are easy to care for and machine washable. People love that the capes are sun-resistant and won't fade.

But this manufacturer has a lot of fakes; people produce fake products under this brand. You need to be careful when purchasing. Check the fabric by touch; if it is very hard, then these are not original covers. Also, the fake gives off a very strong chemical smell, which should not exist at all. This indicates that the composition contains ammonia.

Therefore, before purchasing, you need to carefully check all the nuances, the quality of the seams, the elasticity and strength of the product. If you have serious doubts, you can ask the seller to show the license of this manufacturer; he does not have the right to refuse. Otherwise, if the seller does not want to do this, then you can understand that it is a fake. Azard stores are not represented in every city, but you can always buy their products on the official website.

Foot covers

Types of eco-leather for the automotive industry

The automotive industry is ready to abandon the skins of unfortunate animals. Environmentalists and “greens” are persistent in their demands. Therefore, auto giants order elite-level eco-leather from chemists and designers. These materials quickly became available to the wide market, since their prices were acceptable for mass production. Covers made from them can be ordered in showrooms and can beautify a budget car.

For example, “Nyulux” made for Lexus is almost no different from genuine leather. Very comfortable elastic material for sewing covers. In black it looks solid, but can be damaged by sharp objects. Fortunately, it can be restored. Scratches can be easily sealed and painted over.

“MV Tech” for Mercedes is a very durable eco-leather that can even withstand a cigarette falling onto the seat. No creases or abrasions appear on the upholstery. Sunsatek uses BMW, but it is rarely on sale.

Through the efforts of marketers, these eco-leather brands are positioned as “premium class”. They are available in black and 2-3 shades of beige, like natural animal skins. Black is a practical and noble color, beige requires care.

Eco-leather for sewing covers is more convenient than natural leather, because it is sold in rolls 1.5 and 2 m wide, the cheapest are 1 m. Each linear meter is of uniform color, stable thickness and of a given quality. The layout of the patterns is simpler than on the skin. Therefore, eco-leather is gradually replacing natural leather even in the elite segment.

In a professional salon for sewing car seat covers, the customer will be offered several samples of eco-leather to choose from. The beautiful name characterizes the thickness and texture. Eco-leather from different manufacturers may have the same product designation. Usually the front side is presented in two versions, matte and glossy.

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Types of car seat covers

All car covers on the market are divided into two large groups: universal and model. Let's find out how these products differ from each other, and which option is better from this range.

Universal car covers

As the name suggests, universal seat covers fit all front and rear car seats. They are sold as ready-made kits and are adjusted to the seat of a specific car directly during installation.

Perhaps the only real advantage of universal cases is their low price. Unfortunately, this advantage is offset by a whole host of disadvantages. Among them:

• Untidy appearance

  . A universal cover simply cannot fit perfectly under the seat. In some places it may look baggy, in others it may look too tight.

• Tendency to stretch

  . To make universal covers, inexpensive materials are used that have increased elasticity and are easily stretched.

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• No technological cutouts

  . Because of this, the car risks partially losing its functionality: its seat backs will not recline, the rear armrest will be closed, the holes for the headrest will not be positioned evenly, etc.

Model car covers

Model car seat covers are made according to the patterns of the seats of the model on which they will subsequently be installed. The main advantages of model car covers are the following important points:

• Perfect Fit

  . The model cover is firmly attached to the seat and exactly repeats its shape. It looks at least aesthetically pleasing.

• Full preservation of vehicle functionality

  . Model products have all the necessary slots, including holes for airbags.

• Durability

  . Model car covers do not stretch during use (very durable). Since such products are made exclusively from high-quality materials, the risk of damage is minimized.

Cost is the only drawback of model car covers. However, if you consider that they will serve you many times longer than universal ones, then it hardly needs to be taken into account.

Summary of types of car covers

Let's summarize which car covers are better: universal or model? Definitely the second. On the other hand, universal car covers are often purchased before selling a car in order to give it a more presentable appearance. Perhaps this is the only situation in which such a choice is justified.

Popular brands of automotive leatherette

Many are alarmed by the inscription “Made in China”:

• For example, Oregon leatherette is very popular due to its attractive price. This is a mixture of vinyl and polyurethane. The manufacturer indicates this in the labeling. But some are silent about the composition and label it as; "Eco leather Oregon". It has been noticed that Oregon often turns out to be thinner than the thickness of 1 mm indicated in the documents;
• The second place in popularity is occupied by Alba, which is very close in appearance to genuine leather;
• Companion eco-leather is characterized by increased wear resistance;
• Dollaro comes in a variety of colors, which is why it is sometimes mistaken for leatherette;
• Softar is positioned as a self-healing leather substitute. Traces of deformation are smoothed out on it. Its service life exceeds that of genuine leather.

The term “spunbond” is used in eco-leather labeling. This is a technology for producing a non-woven base. It has good breathability and serves as a backing for the foam layer. Faux leather with such an addition on the reverse side sometimes comes with a ready-made figured screed. It is used for inserts on the backs and seats of chairs.

Features of the material in car interiors.

There are many types of artificial leather for car interiors, but the most popular is eco-leather. It is of high quality and increased wear resistance. It is produced by applying polyurethane to a cotton or synthetic base.

Diamond Pattern Capes

The larger the layer of polyurethane and the better the base, the better the quality of the material. Genuine leather is beginning to lose its popularity, since eco-leather looks like real leather and has a number of advantages, and is much cheaper.

pros

Previously, leatherette made from synthetic fibers was used instead of real leather, but it quickly deteriorated, had a strong odor and was not very aesthetically pleasing.

Autopro with cast headrest

Therefore, many people do not have a very good attitude towards artificial leather. But eco-leather covers destroy all misconceptions.

Note! Eco-leather began to be invented in the USA, back in the 60s of the last century.

The material is similar to a finely porous polyurethane fabric attached to a cotton base. The embossing process produces a pattern similar to natural leather. In appearance, synthetics are almost no different from natural fabric; the difference is only revealed by the reverse side.

This type of leather stretches well and has a pleasant feel; the only thing better than it is anilized leather, but it is very difficult to find in Russia, and its price is very high.

Cleaner

The quality of eco-leather depends on the density of the top polyurethane layer - the thicker the layer, the better the quality of the product. But in this case the skin will be much tougher.

Eco-leather has a huge number of advantages:

• Breathability. The composition has small pores, thanks to this, there is good air circulation in eco-leather;
• Water repellent. The seats remain dry in any case;
• High thermal conductivity. This indicator is almost the same as that of real leather; it maintains a pleasant temperature at any time of the year;
• Frost resistance. The fabric maintains temperature down to −30 degrees, and does not melt or fade in the heat;
• Persistence. Over the years, the skin remains the same as on the day of purchase (with proper care);

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Leatherette capes

• Safety. It contains no hazardous chemicals, so it is safe for children and adults and does not cause allergies;
• Ethicality. No animal skins are used in production; this is good news for concerned people;
• Availability. The price is much lower than natural materials, and is affordable for every car owner.

Minuses

Despite a number of advantages, the products have some disadvantages:

• When cleaning, you cannot use ordinary water, as it causes large stains;
• If the moisture is not removed immediately, the fabric will swell;
• If the interior is white, then you should try to avoid bright fabrics in clothes. Because the paint from them can be absorbed into the upholstery;

Incorrect installation

• The material may come out if there are severe defects.

Caring for such material is not difficult, but you need to do everything carefully. In order for eco-leather car covers to last a long time, they must be treated with water-repellent impregnation, and dirt must be removed with special means or a soap-alcohol solution. Do not use products that contain chlorine or bleach. Because of them, the covers will immediately dissolve their pigment.

Wrong side of eco leather

Eco-leather can be trimmed in the cabin for a better fit of upholstery and car seat covers. On a special machine it is combined with foam rubber and a special knitted fabric. The layers are fused at high temperatures. Materials containing low-melting polymers cannot be subjected to this operation. This is another difference and advantage of polyurethane.

There are options for different brands of eco-leather with an adhesive layer on the back. They are needed for pasting the hard parts of the interior to match the colors of the seats.

Characteristics of eco-leather and its advantages

Genuine leather and its artificial counterpart have the same qualities and are also similar in external characteristics. Eco-leather is soft and pleasant to the touch, has good elasticity and excellent air permeability. This allows it to maintain its qualities in any weather conditions, not to overheat in the heat and not harden in the cold. Conventional materials made from artificial leather emit harmful substances, while eco-leather is environmentally friendly, does not cause allergic reactions and looks especially presentable. It is the best option for those drivers who do not have the opportunity to purchase expensive natural leather for the upholstery of their car.

The new generation material is capable of creating a particularly comfortable environment in the cabin; it is wear-resistant and easy to clean. Sewing covers does not require significant costs. The finished products are durable and do not lose their attractive appearance for a long time, maintaining a pattern identical to natural leather. Buyers can choose any color or choose different color combinations. These materials are available in different sizes, which allows you to create aesthetic finished products with a minimum number of seams. The advantages of this environmental product also include:

• Frost resistance;
• Resistance to ultraviolet rays;
• Elasticity;
• Easy to sew;
• Durability;
• Practicality;
• Color variety.

How to choose the right material for car seats?

When ordering seat covers, you need to look at all the offered samples. Rub and crush in your hands, smell, look at the cut of the material. Eco-leather covers last for many seasons. Their choice is justified if the car is planned to be used for a long time and not replaced in a couple of years. Classic colors and models are preferable. Although shocking lovers can choose a catchy color, original stitching and contrasting inserts.

If the upholstery selected from the sample is only available to order, you should wait. It's better to receive exactly what you ordered. Car covers will be made from high-quality eco-leather from a reliable supplier. It is worth thinking about comfortable additions.

An ergonomic cushion under the lower back will relieve the strain on your back on long trips. A foam insert with a shaped screed in the central part of the seat and back will add comfort to the driver and passengers. The screed looks expensive and looks more elegant than inserts in contrasting colors.

Seats in eco-leather covers do not create problems for the driver on long trips. They are superior to natural leather in strength and wear resistance. A car finished inside with this material corresponds to the business class level. The choice of an interesting color, a perforated insert on the back and high-quality tailoring transform the car’s interior.

Eco-leather on car covers must be at least 1 mm thick. Thinner material is cheaper. It is perfect for upholstering sofas and armchairs. But car covers experience increased stress. Clothes rub hard against the seats when boarding.

Eco-leather covers wear out before the warranty period if the manufacturer does not comply with the requirements for the thickness of the polymer layer.

The main criteria for choosing such cases

There are six important nuances when choosing car covers.

For a specific model or for all types

Most people buy universal cases. They are not expensive and you won’t mind throwing them away in the future. Model capes are sewn for specific cars.

Model cases

Model cases

You need to check with the seller about availability. In this case, it is necessary to indicate the car make, model, production date, body type, whether it is equipped with a rear armrest, what kind of backrest is on the rear seat, the number of headrests (working/non-working), and other nuances of the car.

Eco-leather for car covers (fabric)

It can be eco, dermatin or leather. The base can be cotton or artificial.

What fastenings

Elastic bands around the perimeter are mainly used, with additional hooks or clips.

Quality of production and fit of patterns

Before purchasing, it is better to check several sites and reviews about the cases you need to buy. They should be without folds, bends and fit snugly to the chair. Should not hang or be large in size.

Interior design

Price

Good eco-leather car covers, today (August 12, 2019) have a price of 5,000 thousand rubles. You can get good discounts during seasonal sales. High price, these are high-quality raw materials, fittings, etc. You should not buy kits in the markets, without a receipt, from dubious sellers, and at a low price.

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How to care for leather car covers?

Special products for the care of eco-leather allow you to install light-colored covers on car seats. The chairs inevitably get dirty with slush from clothes. In summer, sweat mixed with city dust remains on them. If dirt cannot be removed with a damp cloth, you will have to study the range of leather and eco-leather cleaners in the car store. Before you buy, you need to ask the seller what they take most often.

You can study reviews about the effectiveness of various products on forums, but each manufacturer praises itself. A proven product can be recommended at a cover sewing salon. There are special recommendations from manufacturers for caring for different brands of eco-leather.

It is better for the car owner not to spill red wine and tomato sauce on light-colored eco-leather car covers. The porous structure of polyurethane is more pleasant than leatherette, but the dyes are instantly absorbed. You will have to spend more time and cleaning product to remove the stain.

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If the leatherette is not afraid of water, it is recommended to wipe eco-leather covers immediately, not allowing moisture to be absorbed. The same recommendations are given to owners of luxury foreign cars, upholstered inside with wood and natural suede.

Hydrophobia is attributed to the lack of eco-leather covers. New materials, for example, MB Tech, will not be damaged by mineral water spilled on the seat. Car seats should not be washed with water or left on wet clothes. Use special products to care for and remove stains.

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Since eco-leather has a porous structure, it is suitable for special cosmetics for caring for products made from genuine leather.

Hortica

It also accurately conveys all the elements of genuine leather. And in some properties it is several times superior to leather, since special unique substances and materials are used in its production.

Hortica is a fabric base coated with polyurethane. This finish imitates leather as closely as possible without “improving” its appearance, as other manufacturers do. Using materials from the Khortiki plant, you can implement the most daring design solutions.

Hortika leatherette is as close in appearance as possible to real leather. It is absolutely safe for health, and its resistance to wear is several times greater than that of natural material.

Thus, leatherette does not deform during prolonged use or bending, is not afraid of mechanical stress (for example, scratching), and is designed for more than half a million cycles of use.

How do covers behave in the cold?

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It is believed that eco-leather on car seats freezes in the cold. This could happen in Yakutsk or Norilsk at temperatures below -35. In such weather, leatherettes become covered with cracks. Polyurethane is a frost-resistant material with low thermal conductivity. It is even used as insulation in construction. In particularly harsh winters, you need to turn on heated seats or put fabric covers on the seats.

In the hot sun, the interior of the car becomes hot, along with the seats and covers. The air conditioner normalizes the temperature in minutes.

Depending on the origin, the following types of skin are distinguished:

• - leather of cattle (cattle) - cows, bulls, calves, oxen, buffaloes. This is the largest size leather, the highest quality, smooth, withstands many processing methods, does not break, does not form cracks on the surface. The highest quality and most expensive types of leather are obtained from calf skin, thin, delicate and soft leather (leather varieties - opoek, outgrowth, half-leather). There are also varieties of leather from cows and bulls: goby, bychina, bugay, yalovka.

• - horse leather. It is also quite large in size, stronger than cattle leather, but is not very common in our country.

• - leather from the skins of sheep and goats. The leather is smaller than cattle leather and also has less strength. Depending on the age of sheep and goats, varieties are distinguished: chevro, goat, chevrette and sheepskin.
• - pork skin. The cheapest leather has large pores and a grainy surface, is fragile, and water-permeable.
• - exotic leather. This group includes rare and/or expensive types of leather: reptile leather (crocodile, python, monitor lizard); fish skin (stingray skin, shark skin); leather of birds (ostriches); kangaroo leather

Cattle leather is used to reupholster seats and door inserts ; the skin of exotic animals , mainly python or crocodile skin, can be used