Unleather is a name for a fabric that looks, feels, and lasts, nearly identical to leather. But it’s so much better. Now more than ever, consumers are concerned about more than the final product. The process of commonly made items is under new scrutiny, reflecting a desire to make informed choices that have a lower environmental impact.

Groundbreaking technology, environmentally friendly, sustainable, and vegan, unleather is changing the way we think about how products are produced. “Un” gets a bad rep, unacceptable, unforgivable, uncertain. Let’s unlearn what we’ve come to expect from “un.”

Pollution, resources, and what happens to an item when we throw it away, are at the forefront of informed consumers minds. A new type of fabric known as mycelium leather or mushroom leather is ready to take on the issues long associated with traditional animal leather production. 

The humble mushroom has a root system similar to that of plants, which can be used to manufacture this fabric. Consumers who are concerned about global climate change will appreciate the efforts being made to mimic a high fashion, durable fabric, without the drawbacks.

For the first time, there is an alternative to leather that is fully biodegradable. Many popular faux types of leather still use chemicals and processes that are harmful to the environment. The plastics typically used are technically biodegradable but can take years and can be worse for the environment than traditional leather. The pollution caused in the production of these synthetic alternatives is a huge problem, as well as the obscene use of water and energy which all have significant impacts on our planet and global climate change.

Mushroom leather is infinitely renewable, unlike synthetic and other alternatives. This innovative resource can be grown anywhere, you can even grow it in your own home! State of the art technology transforms mycelium into this unique alternative and even the byproducts are compostable. Unlike synthetic alternatives, it’s tough. It won’t crack or wear out quickly.

One problem with animal leather is problematic because of the number of resources it uses. Unleather saves precious livestock lives therefore reducing greenhouse gasses. It doesn’t require the land or water resources of traditional leather either. 

Livestock takes years to mature and therefore years of resources, as well as associated waste. Mushroom leather goes from spores to production ready in a matter of weeks. Fungi is not just for eating anymore! Speaking of which, this fabric is totally vegan and GMO-free, though you probably still shouldn’t eat it.

Animal leather also has its own toxic pollution issues to consider. The typical tanning process creates a toxic water runoff that is not good for ecosystems or humans. Mushroom leather requires no use of fossil fuels or toxic chemicals to produce.

Leather has been popular for centuries for a reason. It’s beautiful and can last decades with proper care. Synthetic leather not only cracks and peels, but it also has a whole host of environmental issues to consider as well.

Mushroom leather is strong and can be used to make anything traditional or faux leather would typically. Shoes, handbags, and watch bands included. It can take on any color, emboss, or texture. Like leather, it still needs to be stored and cared for properly to last.

Soft, supple, and sustainable, unleather is the embodiment of the benefits of choosing a leather alternative that is earth and animal friendly. This breakthrough avoids the use of fossil fuel extraction, wastewater, and adorable animal lives. It is a conscious alternative that you can feel good about and look good in as well. An informed decision is a good decision.