How to Care for Alpaca Wool Garments

How to Care for Alpaca Wool Garments

"How should I care for an alpaca wool garment?" "Can I machine wash my wool sweater?" "How do I dry my wool sweater?" These are some of the most frequently asked questions about alpaca wool. In this guide, we share expert tips on maintaining your sustainable, eco-friendly alpaca wool clothing to keep it looking and feeling its best.

Understanding Alpaca Wool

Alpaca wool is still relatively unknown to many, which can make its care seem mysterious. Like other natural wools, improper washing can cause shrinkage, stretching, or loss of color and softness. However, alpaca wool is an environmentally friendly, biodegradable, and renewable fiber—it's four times more durable than sheep’s wool, meaning it can withstand more wear without deteriorating. With proper care, your ethically sourced alpaca wool garment is a long-term investment that will maintain its original quality for years to come.

Washing Your Alpaca Wool Garments

To preserve the softness and durability of eco-conscious alpaca wool, proper washing techniques are essential. Here are some key guidelines:

• Use a Gentle Shampoo: Always wash with a mild, detergent-free wool shampoo. Harsh detergents can strip the fibers of their natural oils, leading to dryness and damage.

• Hand Wash for Best Results: Although alpaca wool is more resilient than other wools, it’s best to hand wash in lukewarm water (between 10–20°C) with a mild shampoo. Keep the water temperature consistent to prevent felting.

• Machine Washing: While hand washing is preferable, some alpaca wool garments, such as socks, can be machine washed at 30°C with regular detergent. Always check the care label before machine washing.

• Avoid Agitation: Never wring or twist alpaca garments. Instead, gently press out excess water to maintain the shape and integrity of the fibers.

• Wear Gloves: When washing by hand, consider wearing plastic gloves to avoid snagging delicate fibers on nails or jewelry.

Alpaca wool naturally repels odors and dust, so frequent washing isn’t necessary. Simply airing out your garment on a flat surface can refresh it between washes, extending the time between deep cleanings.

Drying Alpaca Wool Properly

Never put alpaca wool garments in a dryer. Instead, follow these drying steps:

1. Lay the garment flat on a clean towel to absorb excess moisture.

2. Roll the towel gently to press out water without stretching the fibers.

3. Reshape the garment and lay it flat in an airy space, away from direct sunlight.

4. Ensure sweaters, scarves, and other knitwear are completely flat—including sleeves—to prevent stretching.

Ironing Alpaca Wool

One of alpaca wool’s great benefits is its resistance to wrinkles. However, if you need to remove creases:

• Always place a cloth between the iron and the garment.

• Use a low-temperature setting without steam.

• Gently press instead of dragging the iron over the fabric.

Enhancing the Longevity of Alpaca Fibers

• Color Preservation: Dyed alpaca wool may release some color during the first few washes. Wash items separately or with similar colors. To help fix the dye, soak garments in water with 20% white vinegar before the first wash.

• Prevent Pilling: For new alpaca garments, store them in the refrigerator for 48 hours before wearing. The cold tightens the fibers, reducing breakage and pilling over time.

• Seasonal Care: At the end of each season, wash alpaca wool items before storing them to prevent moths from damaging the natural fibers.

Quick Care Summary

• Aerate regularly instead of washing too often.

• Hand wash in cold water (10–20°C) with mild shampoo.

• Lay flat to dry, never use a dryer.

• Iron on low heat with a cloth between the iron and the fabric.

• Store properly to prevent pilling and moth damage.

By following these simple care tips, your sustainably sourced alpaca wool garments will maintain their softness, color, and shape for many years to come.

Now that you know how to care for premium-quality, ethically produced alpaca wool, explore our collection of climate-friendly, fair-trade alpaca wool clothing and accessories today!