Why Does Faux Leather Wrinkle? (And How to Stop It for Good)
How to get wrinkles out of faux leatherFaux leather whether it’s on your favorite jacket, couch, or handbag looks sleek until those annoying wrinkles and creases show up. But why does this happen? But here’s the real question – what’s the best way to stop wrinkles before they start? Let’s break it down in simple terms.
The Science Behind Faux Leather Wrinkles
Unlike real leather, faux leather (also called PU or PVC leather) is made from a plastic-coated fabric. This means:
No natural flexibility: Real leather stretches and bounces back, but faux leather stiffens over time.
Heat sensitivity: Exposure to warmth (like sunlight or storage in a hot car) softens the plastic layer, making it prone to folds.
Humidity’s role: Moisture can loosen the fabric backing, causing it to buckle and wrinkle.
Pro Tip: If your faux leather item came tightly folded in a package, those creases might be “set” into the material. The good news? They’re fixable!
How Faux Leather Differs from Real Leather
Many people assume you can treat faux leather the same as the real thing big mistake. Here’s why:
Real leather responds well to heat and conditioning because it’s porous.
Faux leather can melt, crack, or discolor if exposed to high heat or harsh chemicals.
Example: Leaving a faux leather purse in a hot car can cause permanent warping, while real leather might just dry out (and can be revived with conditioner).
Frequent Reasons Behind Wrinkles and Smart Ways to Prevent Them
Improper Storage
Folding instead of hanging jackets/bags creates deep creases.
Solution: Store items flat or rolled, never crammed in a tight space.
Heat & Sun Exposure
Direct sunlight (like near a window) weakens the material.
Solution: Keep faux leather away from radiators and sunny spots.
Humidity Swelling
Damp environments (basements, bathrooms) loosen the fabric backing.
Solution: Use silica gel packs in storage areas.
Cheap Material
Low-quality faux leather wrinkles faster.
Fix: Invest in thicker PU leather items they hold shape better.
Can Wrinkles Go Away on Their Own?
Sometimes but don’t count on it!
Light creases may relax if hung properly for a few days.
Deep folds need intervention (like steaming or conditioning).
Myth Buster: “Simply putting it on won’t magically smooth out the wrinkles!”
Works for real leather (body heat helps mold it).
Faux leather? Nope you’ll need active treatment.
Key Takeaways
Faux leather wrinkles due to heat, pressure, and humidity not aging.
Prevention is easier than removal store items properly!
Never use real leather hacks (like high heat) on faux versions.
Up Next: Let’s dive into the 5 safest ways to remove wrinkles without damaging your faux leather!
5 Safe Ways to Remove Wrinkles from Faux Leather
Wrinkled faux leather doesn’t have to be permanent! Here are five proven methods from quick fixes to deep treatments that work without damaging your favorite pieces.
Method 1: Steaming (Best for Light Creases)
Works for: Jackets, purses, furniture
What you’ll need: Handheld steamer or a hairdryer + damp cloth
Steps:
Keep the steamer about six inches away from the fabric while using it.
Move slowly in smooth, wide strokes avoid staying in one spot too long, as the plastic could start to melt.
Gently stretch the material smooth as it warms.
Hairdryer Hack: Use low heat with a damp towel as a barrier to avoid scorching.
Method 2: Ironing (For Stubborn Folds)
Works for: Flat items like skirts, chair covers
What you’ll need: Iron (low heat), thick cotton cloth (like a pillowcase)
Steps:
Set iron to “synthetic” mode (under 300°F).
Place the cloth over the faux leather never iron directly!
Press for 3-5 seconds, lift, repeat. Check often for overheating.
Pro Tip: For curved items (like shoes), stuff with socks first to hold shape.
Method 3: Weighted Flattening (Slow but Safe)
Works for: Bags, folded items with deep creases
What you’ll need: Heavy books, rolled towels
Steps:
Lay the item flat on a table.
Place a towel over wrinkles, then stack books on top.
Leave for 24-48 hours. Check progress and reposition if needed.
Pro tip: Lightly mist with water beforehand to help the fibers loosen up more quickly.
Method 4: Leather Conditioner Massage (For Shallow Wrinkles + Shine)
Works for: All faux leather, especially dry/cracked pieces
What you’ll need: Water-based faux leather conditioner (like Weiman’s)
Steps:
Using gentle circular motions, softly work a small, pea-sized dab into the wrinkles.
Let sit for 10 minutes, then buff with a microfiber cloth.
Repeat weekly to prevent new wrinkles.
Warning: Avoid oil-based products they can stain!
Method 5: Wrinkle-Release Spray (Quick Emergency Fix)
Works for: On-the-go touch-ups
What you’ll need: Wrinkle-release spray (like Downy Wrinkle Releaser)
Steps:
Hang the item and spray lightly from 8 inches away.
Tug gently to smooth, then air dry.
DIY Version: Mix 1 tsp fabric softener + 1 cup water in a spray bottle.
3. What NOT to Do (Avoid These Common Mistakes!)
Never Use High Heat
Hairdryers on “high” or irons above 300°F can melt the plastic coating.
Don’t Apply Harsh Chemicals
Alcohol, acetone, or ammonia-based cleaners cause discoloration and cracking.
Avoid Over-Stretching
Yanking too hard can tear the fabric backing.
Skip the Clothes Dryer
Heat + tumbling = permanent warping.
Real-Life Example: A reader ruined her faux leather skirt by ironing it bare now it has shiny, melted patches!
4. How to Prevent Future Wrinkles
Storage Rules:
Hang jackets on padded hangers (wire hangers leave shoulder bumps).
Stuff bags with tissue paper to hold shape.
Roll (don’t fold) when packing away.
Climate Control:
Keep humidity under 60% (use dehumidifiers in closets).
Avoid direct sunlight UV rays weaken fibers.
Maintenance Routine:
Wipe monthly with a damp cloth to remove dirt that stiffens material.
Condition every 3 months to maintain flexibility.
5. Pro Tips for Specific Items
Jackets: Hang in a breezy area after steaming to cool in shape.
Couches: Use a handheld steamer vertically to avoid water drips.
Gently massage a small amount, about the size of a pea, onto the wrinkles using circular motions.
For Sewn Seams: Press a warm (not hot!) spoon along stitching to relax wrinkles without damaging thread.
FAQs (Quick Answers!)
“Can you use a clothing steamer?”
Yes! Just keep it moving and use the lowest setting.
“Will wrinkles disappear naturally?”
Only if they’re very light most need active treatment.
“Can I use coconut oil?”
No! It clogs pores and attracts dirt. Stick to water-based conditioners.