How to Prevent Cracks in the PU Leather of Your Gaming Chair

How to Prevent Cracks in the PU Leather of Your Gaming Chair

At VALK, we’ve spent years designing and manufacturing gaming chairs. That gives us a deep understanding of the materials we work with—their strengths, and also their limits. One of the most common issues is damage to the PU synthetic leather upholstery when it’s not properly cared for. The good news? It’s easy to prevent. In this guide, we’ll show you how to protect your chair’s finish and extend its lifespan with just a few practical steps.

PU Leather: Durable, But Not Invincible

Polyurethane (PU) leather is widely used in gaming chairs because of its sleek appearance, pleasant touch, and ease of cleaning. But like any engineered material, it needs minimal but consistent care to stay in good shape over time.

Its worst enemy? Excess moisture. In poorly ventilated rooms, coastal areas, or homes with high humidity, PU leather can gradually absorb moisture. Over time, this makes it more likely to stiffen, dry out, or even crack with regular use.

Preventive Maintenance That Works

The secret is to adopt small habits that make a big difference. You don’t need to clean the chair weekly, but it’s smart to do a light routine every few months.

A great investment is a dehumidifier. You don’t need it running 24/7—just switch it on during especially humid days to help keep the room dry. This is particularly helpful in places with little sunlight or poor airflow.

Also, consider using a breathable protective cover if you won’t use the chair for several days or if you have pets at home. Avoid plastic covers that trap humidity—they’ll do more harm than good.

Occasional Cleaning, Done Right

You don’t need a strict cleaning schedule, but every now and then it’s worth wiping the surface with a slightly damp cloth and mild soap (never use multipurpose or abrasive products). Then, go over it again with a clean, damp cloth and dry with a soft towel. The key is to avoid soaking the surface, especially if your chair has perforated PU panels.

Let the chair air dry in a well-ventilated room. No hairdryers, no heaters. Let it breathe.

PU Conditioner? Yes, It Exists

Just like car interiors, you can find conditioners designed specifically for PU leather. These products keep the material soft and elastic, helping prevent surface cracks. It’s not mandatory, but applying a bit once or twice a year can go a long way.

Avoid Common Mistakes

The most important rule: no direct water contact and no heat sources for drying. These are the fastest ways to ruin the top layer of PU and trigger early deterioration.

Quick Recap

• Ventilate your room or use a dehumidifier when needed.
• Clean occasionally with mild soap and water—never soak.
• Use a breathable cover if not using the chair for a while.
• Apply PU conditioner once or twice a year.
• Never use direct water or heat sources.

Follow these simple tips and your PU gaming chair will stay in great condition for years—no cracks, no surprises. Just good care and common sense.

Want to take it a step further?

If you want to keep your gaming chair in top shape for years, don’t miss our other two care guides:

• Basic maintenance for your gaming chair: cleaning, vacuuming, regular adjustments and general care.
• Advanced maintenance for your gaming chair: lubrication, tension adjustment and deep checkups every few months.

If you have any questions or need help caring for your chair, feel free to reach out through our VALK Help Center. We’ll be happy to assist you.