All you need to know about Vegan leather Bags

Vegan leather bags are produced using more sustainable materials compared to genuine leather ones.

That indicates that every part of them, from the exterior fabric (like a vegan leather purse) to the glue used in manufacturing, is free of cruelty.

With the rise in popularity of vegan handbags, numerous companies are now trying to source materials that are as eco-friendly as possible and also ensure that the bags are created by employees who are paid equitably.

Of course, every company creates products differently, so it is important to do your research and make sure the brand you are buying from does not support sweatshop working conditions while still wearing a vegan label.

What Exactly is a Vegan-Friendly Handbag made out of?

Vegan leather bags are made out of a variety of materials. The most popular one is fake leather. However, you can also find vegan bags constructed from various faux materials, including recycled rubber or waxed cotton.

Cork is even utilized to create environmentally friendly bags that we can enjoy without guilt. Vegan handbags typically come in two primary kinds. There are the ones that attempt to mimic leather with a type of fake leather. They strive to appear as close as possible to real leather.

What is a Vegan Leather?

A "Vegan leather" refers to a reproduction of genuine leather made without animal products. A portion of this "pleather," as it's often referred to, is so like the real thing that it could cause users to ask: is fake leather truly vegan in its entirety? The answer is yes, it is.

However authentic, it appears fake leather is not created using animals or animal-based products. The only thing I can suggest is always to read the label of any item to be sure! Vegan leather is utilized to substitute for genuine leather. Many people assume that anything different from natural leather is not suitable for producing bags or accessories. However, this has been proven to be untrue as vegan leather makes great accessories.

How can Vegan Leather be made?

Since there are so many different varieties of vegan leather, it is not always easy to explain how it is made. Polyvinyl chloride is the most prevalent variety that you will encounter. Also called PVC, it is a type of plastic applied to the reverse of polyester fabric.

PVC can be considered vegan; it has many reasons why it may not be the best choice. It is, for instance, the substance that makes vegan leather have a cheap reputation. PVC has been manufactured in mass quantities in such a way that it is an exceptionally very thin plastic layer with an outer layer of fabric.

It may not withstand life's regular wear and tear, this is why animal leather has developed a reputation as being strong and long-lasting, but at the expense of animals all over the world. Vegan leather can be produced in different ways.

Handbags can also be produced using vegan leather, more specifically, vegetable leather. Vegetable leather is employed to make premium brand products and is a by-product of vegetable waste. These leathers are not just 100% vegan but sustainable and environmentally friendly.

Is Vegan Leather Green?

At this point, you are probably wondering whether vegan leather is eco-friendly. In the case of PVC, the answer is no. Because PVC is made of plastic, it has the same issues as other plastic-based products. The main problem is the amount of energy, not to mention the chemical compounds it needs to create. In the process of making PVC, dangerous dioxins are created. The process will also contain chemicals called phthalates. However, these phthalates are harmful to both humans and animals.

Regarding biodegradability, PVC has the same issues as other plastics. PVC isn't at all biodegradable. This is worsened because PVC clothes and accessories get treated as if they're disposable since they're cheap and fragile.

They are being discarded haphazardly and end up in the ground. As they disintegrate in sunlight, they will release chemicals in them. But don't lose hope. PVC and other alternatives are being made using more environmentally friendly processes thanks to technological breakthroughs.

Some brands use more substantial, more robust PVC, like the leatherette used in sofas. These aren't biodegradable. However, they're designed to last just the same amount of time as genuine leather. However, searching for leather made from vegan materials that don't contain PVC is the best choice in the case of accessories.

Can Vegans Wear Fake Leather?

The faux leather fabric used to make clothing has been in use for many years, and some women aren't able to live without their leather leggings! But with the environmental concerns surrounding PVC, what can vegans ever wear?  There are environmental concerns for all kinds of leather, genuine or vegan, but in the end, faux leather does not contain animal products and is a cause of no animal cruelty.

As we've mentioned, companies are taking every step to create faux leather that is eco- Friendly as possible, and new ideas are coming up. One of them is kombucha leather, made using the same recipe as the wildly popular tea. The best aspect of kombucha is that it can be composted after usage. This is genuinely eco-friendly leather!

Does Vegan Leather have a Better Quality than Genuine Leather?

You might be wondering if vegan leather is the best option at all. Certain environmentalists continue to advocate for the use of genuine leather because of the negative impacts PVC has on the planet and the perception of leather as a once-in-a-lifetime purchase.  But the vegan option is superior to genuine leather due to the nature of it being vegan. The kind of PVC you buy is vital. PVC is a sham because of all the thin and flimsy clothing available.

If you shop cautiously, it is possible to discover PVC items that have been manufactured to a very high standard and are robust. However, genuine leather remains sought-after because there isn't any other similar material, which is why faux leather attempts to replicate it.

It is costly to make and has many environmental problems, aside from the fact it originates out of an animal. Tanning leather can be the sole option to convert the skin of animals to usable material. It is done by using a chemical called Chromium, which is highly harmful to the planet.

The water run-off that results from this needs to be removed before it can be released into the water system and consumes much more water and energy. With the latest developments in the field of vegan leather occurring constantly, it is becoming increasingly eco-friendly to create quality imitation leather that looks authentic.

It is also more accessible to dye since the dye can be added to the production process. This means you can obtain a variety of colors without a lot of effort and the risk of tanning.

Is Vegan Leather made to be Durable?

A well-made pleather jacket will last as long as genuine leather. Since it is not made from animals' hides, it does not need to be taken care of or maintained in quite the same way to ensure its suppleness.  Vegan leather is also not susceptible to cracks like genuine leather. However, some care must be exercised. For instance, if you own any vegan leather bags or accessories, do not hang them from their straps. Also, it would help if you were careful not to leave vegan leather items outside in the sun since the heat could alter the quality of their products.

Maintaining your possessions in good shape should be a priority. Try not to be rough with them, but be sure to utilize these items. Keeping these points in mind, vegan leather can last a lifetime, when properly looked after.

Is Vegan Leather Waterproof?

The vegan leather is waterproof, but it depends on the product you are using. For example, if you are wearing a vegan leather jacket, it will be coated with an additional waterproof layer. Most handbags are waterproof, however, are not made to be soaked. Thus, they should not be used in circumstances of heavy rain, or situations where water is concerned. Be sure to allow the faux leather items to dry completely. Much like genuine leather, faux leather does not work with drying in a tumbler!

How do you clean Vegan Leather?

How do you clean vegan leather? This is one of the questions frequently asked by customers. The answer is straight in the direction of the way you clean genuine leather.

You can buy synthetic leather cleaning cloths, but wipes made for genuine leather perform just as well in this instance. Use a gentle rub all across the leather, being mindful of any spots.

Another option you clean vegan leather using mild detergent.

One of the challenges of vegan and genuine natural leather is that the latter is prone to absorbing things like oil, ink, and wine.

If you are trying to remove dye staining from imitation leather, your best solution is to use lukewarm water and add a gentle cleaning agent. Clean the leather using a cloth that is not dyed, then clean it using a fabric and just water.

After a spill, try applying some cornstarch or talcum powder on an oily stain. It is a natural fake leather stain remover, and you can clean it up whenever possible.

What is the Best Place to Buy Vegan Leather Bags and other Vegan Products?

Many companies are now selling vegan leather accessories and handbags. It is suggested that anyone wishing to purchase an environmentally friendly product check the leather's source material and manufacturing circumstances.

Tips to maintain

The first important tip for maintaining your vegan leather bags is similar to caring for your skin, both can benefit greatly from applying good cream, especially with aging.  When you have been using the bag for a month, or similar the bag will lose some of its distinctive shine. A good, reliable guideline to follow for any vegan leather products is to apply cream or oil regularly or as needed.

How to Clean - The basic procedure is simple - eliminate dirt by cleaning it using a specific cleaner designed for the leather that is vegan being mentioned. Make sure to take care of the hardware. Certain bags are equipped with chains or clasps that are plated with metal.

Always ask the aide in the boutique to get advice on how to care for your bag. Every two days you should give your bag a quick cleaning with a fine dry cloth. This will take only two minutes but will make a big difference to the look of your vegan leather.

How to Condition - Consider using special conditioner cream for your vegan leather bags or accessories, otherwise it will dry up after a while. To stop wrinkling and chipping you can apply a little conditioner on the surface of a soft material and gently rub it all over.

Try applying an oil or conditioner cream that mimics and enhances the usual oils of vegan leather. Let it sit for 10 minutes before removing any leftovers. Clean leather bags every month or ensure that your vegan leather looks its shining the best.

Another tip for caring for leather made from vegan is to stay clear of the heat. If your leather item is wet, make sure you allow your item to be in the air to dry. Do not use artificial heat on vegan leather since this can cause damage.

Whatever your reasons for caring about your vegan leather items constantly, it may not prevent them from suffering from normal problems such as damage from water, scratches, or staining. However, there are certain precautions you can take above ordinary maintenance and weatherproofing.

In short, vegan leather bags are not just good for the consumers but also for the environment as well. Numerous companies have come up with eco-friendly ways to create stylish and unique bags that are completely cruelty-free.  Explore vegan leather bags with Elan! You're sure to be spoilt for choice—contact us and choose 100% cruelty-free, stylish, and ethical options today.