A review of plant-based natural dyes in leather application with a special focus on color fastness characteristics

Dyes/colorants are normally used to improve the aesthetic of consumer products, and leather is one of them. The leather industry plays a significant role in the global economy. However, the leather-making process causes severe environmental pollution. Synthetic dyes are one of the major classes of leather chemicals that are responsible for the enhanced pollution load created by the industry. Over the years, excessive use of synthetic dyes in consumer products created severe environmental pollution and health hazard. Many of these synthetic dyes are carcinogenic, allergic, cause serious health problems for human beings, and have been restricted by regulatory authorities for use in consumer goods. Since ancient days, natural dyes and colorants have been used to make lives colorful. Amid the green movements and environment-friendly products/processes, natural dyes are back to mainstream fashion. Moreover, natural colorants have become a trend due to their eco-friendly nature. The demand for non-toxic and eco-friendly dyes and pigments is increasing. However, the question remains "is natural dyeing sustainable " or "how to make it sustainable. " Here, we review the literature reports on natural dye's application in leather in the last two decades. This review article provides a detailed overview and current knowledge base on the various plant-based natural dyes used in leather dyeing, their fastness properties, and the need of the hour in terms of product and process development to make natural dying sustainable. The color fastness characteristics of the dyed leather to light, rub, and perspiration have been critically discussed.