Sustainability

Sustainability isn’t a finish line, it’s a journey.

At Glass Ladder, we build bags meant to last and be used truly, fully, and for a long time. That’s why we choose durable materials, offer ways to refresh what you already own, and continue testing new options as they evolve. Our approach isn’t about trends or shortcuts; it’s about thoughtful progress and long-lasting design.

For years, we’ve been proud to offer high-quality vegan leather handbags. Our commitment to quality and sustainable choices has never wavered, and our current microfiber is, without a doubt, the most durable vegan leather on the market.
However, in our quest for continuous improvement, we’re thrilled to announce the addition of Real Leather options to our newest collection.
In keeping with our ethical and quality standards, we’ve sourced only the best material. Top-grain real leather, locally sourced to our factory from a reputable tannery who minimizes waste by utilizing leftover leather from other industries.
Our Real Leather is certified by the Leather Working Group (LWG), which means it is produced in environmentally friendly facilities that are upheld to strict ethical guidelines.
Why the change? Two main reasons: durability and longevity. While our Vegan Leather products are outstanding, real leather, when cared for properly, offers unmatched durability and quality. It’s about giving you, our valued customers, more choices.
Rest assured, our Vegan Leather options are here to stay! We will never stop providing these options that you know and love.
Microfiber leather is the abbreviation of microfiber polyurethane synthetic (faux) leather. It is the highest grade of artificial leather, and due to its remarkable performance, microfiber leather is known as the best real leather alternative.
We've scoured the synthetic leather market and done extensive testing over the years (everything from Apple Leather, Silicon Leather, Coffee Leather, Bamboo Leather, Traditional PU material and everything in between).
We are happy to say that Microfiber is the strongest and most durable among ALL the synthetic leathers from our own research and experience. High quality and durabilty are important to us, and we feel this material excels in all areas.
{Retired in 2024} Bamboo Leather is the sister material to coffee leather. Made in the same facility, to the same standard, and offering the same look, feel, and quality.
By using recycled bamboo to create this material, we are able to reduce waste and emissions while providing a durable and more sustainable material option. This material is DMFa Free, toxic-free, cruelty-free, and manufactured in small batches to eliminate material waste.
It's important to recognize that sustainability is a long term journey, and we still have a way to go. Though we are excited about this step forward, we are still researching and testing to improve our materials and sustainability practices.
- USDA Certified BioBased Product
- RoHS Compliant
- Global Recycled Standard
- Reach Compliant
- IDFL Certified
- DMFa Free
{Retired in 2024} After years of Research and Development to find the best bio- based vegan leathers, we are thrilled to finally introduce our most sustainable material yet made from recycled post-consumer coffee grounds.
By giving your beloved coffee beans a second life, we are able to reduce waste and emissions while providing a durable and more sustainable material option. This material is DMFa Free, toxic-free, cruelty-free, and manufactured in small batches to eliminate material waste.
About 75% of coffee waste ends up in landfills which struggle to decompose quickly and release 2+ billion cubic meters of methane yearly during decomposition. Post-consumer coffee grounds are sorted, cleaned, dried and grinded into a powder substance, which is then treated and dyed to create this new bio-based vegan leather.
It's important to recognize that sustainability is a long term journey, and we still have a way to go. Though we are excited about this step forward, we are still researching and testing to improve our materials and sustainability practices.
- USDA Certified BioBased Product
- RoHS Compliant
- Global Recycled Standard
- Reach Compliant
- IDFL Certified
- DMFa Free
The finished vegan material consists of the following components:
- 18% recycled coffee grounds
- 31% water based resin
- 51% recycled polyester
{Retired in 2023} Our original vegan leather material was PU Leather. We worked on research and development over the last 2 years to find the best bio based alternative, we found the best quality was Coffee Leather- which is now currently available in select colors. We will be using bio-based vegan leather material on all new collections moving forward.
The Collective Fashion Justice Org states “Industry data shows some cow skin leather to be the third most environmentally impactful material to produce when considering the climate, fossil fuel use, water use, chemistry and eutrophication. Even polyurethane synthetic leather… has less than half the impact… To make 1 typical cow skin leather tote, almost 17,128L of water is used. If you made the same bag from PU synthetic leather… the water footprint would be reduced over 14 times.”
The leather industry contributes to mass deforestation, water waste, and greenhouse gas emissions. Studies also show that individuals who live near or work at leather tanneries have increased rates of cancer due to long term exposure to harmful carcinogens.
Choosing PU Leather over PVC and Genuine Leather, is better for animals, people, and the planet!

The Life of a Glass Ladder Bag

Designed to last. Supported for longer.

5. Trade-In

We'll refurbish + rehome your bag to give it a second life.

6. Recycle

Coming Soon

Bags that can't be restored will be responsibly recycled.

1. Made to Last

Crafted with durable materials and quality workmanship.

2. Warranty

We offer free repairs in the first year.

3. Repair

We offer an at-cost repair service after the 1st year.

4. Replace

Swap handles & linings over time.

Free Warranty Care

We stand behind the durability of our bags. During your first year of use, we’ll take care of qualifying wear or faults with the best solution for your piece (whether that means repair, replacement, or credit). Whenever possible, repairs are prioritized to keep your bag in use longer.

Repair Services

For eligible Glass Ladder purchases outside of warranty, we offer paid repair options designed to extend the life of your bag. Choose which repairs you'd like. If a repair can’t be done, we’ll guide you toward the best next step: whether that’s trade-in eligibility or a recycling option.

Trade-In Program

When you’re ready for something new, you can trade in qualifying bags for store credit (space are limited for this as we refine our procedures for this program). We refurbish them by hand and rehome them through small Pre-Loved Pop-Up Shops events on our website.

Learn More

Pre-Loved Pop Ups

After inspection and restoration, eligible bags return in limited Pre-Loved Pop Up shopping events on our website. Instead of sitting unused in a closet, or getting shipping off to a donation center, they’re given a makeover and a second chapter with someone new.