Can you dry clean fake leather (pleather)?

Some care labels say "dry clean only," but when it comes to fake leather (pleather), that’s not always safe.

Here’s how to avoid damage and when to ask for advice.

Today, we’re discussing a fabric that often causes confusion: fake leather, also known as pleather. It’s sleek, stylish, and becoming more common in everything from jackets to trousers. But here’s the tricky bit:

Can you actually dry clean it, even when the care label says you can?

When we receive garments made from pleather, the first thing we do, as always, is check the care label.

Some say “dry clean only”, which sounds clear enough. However, pleather is made from a vinyl or polyurethane coating bonded to fabric, and that coating doesn’t always hold up well to dry cleaning.

We've had real examples in our shop where jackets delaminated after a single dry clean — meaning the vinyl layer peeled away from the fabric, leaving it unwearable. And once that happens, you can’t fix it.

Pleather peeling after dry cleaning

Why does fake leather peel after dry cleaning?

The peeling, or delamination, occurs because fake leather is essentially plastic layered on top of fabric. The dry cleaning process can weaken the adhesive or break down the coating, especially if:

• The garment is older or poorly made

• The vinyl layer is thin or has started to age

• The care label isn't suitable for the specific type of finish used

Even if the label says dry clean, you’re still taking a risk.

What if the garment mixes fabric and vinyl?

This is where things get even trickier.

Some garments mix fabric panels with vinyl details maybe a fabric body, pleather sleeves, or decorative trims. That means one part might handle washing or dry cleaning fine, while the other… doesn’t.

Washing fake leather can lead to shrinking or cracking, but dry cleaning can peel or distort the vinyl. So, which do you choose?

The key is informed decision-making. At Farthings, we’ll always explain the risks before we proceed. That way, you can decide what matters most: keeping the shape, avoiding peeling, or preserving detail.

What if the vinyl is hidden?

Sometimes, you don’t even realise a garment has pleather. It might be tucked under the collar, along a pocket edge, or inside the lining.

That’s where professional cleaning makes a difference because we need to double-check!

If damage occurs after following the care label, it’s often a manufacturer's issue, not a cleaning error.

When should you go back to the store or manufacturer?

If your new pleather garment peels or cracks after cleaning, and the cleaner followed the care label, you can contact the manufacturer or retailer.

At Farthings, we’re happy to provide a written explanation of what happened and how the item was cleaned.

So if you’re ever in doubt about whether to dry clean or wash your fake leather item, bring it in to us at Farthings Dry Cleaners and we’ll assess the risks with you, explain the pros and cons, and help you decide what’s best for your garment. At the end of the day, our goal is simple: keep your clothes looking great and protect you from nasty surprises.

----------------------------------------------

📍 Farthings Dry Cleaners Cambridge

143 Milton Road, Cambridge, CB4 1XE

📞 Call us: 01223 755180

🕒 Opening Hours: Mon–Fri 8:30am–4pm | Sat 8:30am–3pm

🗺️ Get directions to our Cambridge Branch

📍 Farthings Dry Cleaners Trumpington

 1 Anstey Way, Trumpington, Cambridge, CB2 9JE

📞 Call us: 01223 625310

🕒 Opening Hours: Mon–Fri 8:30am–4pm | Sat 8:30am–3pm

🗺️ Get directions to our Trumpington Branch

----------------------------------------------

✨ Who is Farthings Dry Cleaners? Farthings Dry Cleaners is known as Cambridge and Trumpington's most sought-after dry cleaners. It's the ideal home for your high-end garments preservation and alteration to be cared for, helping them last as long as possible and always making you look stunning. Trust Farthings — where your garments are cared for like couture.