How to Care for Your Alpaca Garment
Alpaca fibres are naturally stain, odour and wrinkle resistant, so your garments can go extended periods between cleanings. When it's time to wash, follow these steps carefully to keep your alpaca looking its best.
Step 1 — Check the care label
Always read the care instructions on your garment before washing.
Step 2 — Identify your garment type
Woven garments (coats, jackets, throws & some accessories)
Take to a reputable dry cleaner. Bring any fibre labels or care tags. Ask the cleaner to use fresh or filtered solvent, avoid tumbling, and use low heat (max 60°C / 140°F).
Knitwear (sweaters, cardigans & some accessories)
Hand washing is strongly recommended — it extends the life of your garment significantly. Avoid machine washing.
Step 3 — Hand wash
Wash in cool water (max 29°C) with a Woolwash or mild shampoo. Rinse thoroughly at the same temperature — alpaca is sensitive to thermal shock.
Step 4 — Remove excess water
Do not wring or twist the sweater — alpaca fibre is at its most fragile when wet. Instead, lay the sweater flat on top of a dry towel. Gently roll the towel up with the sweater inside, then press and squeeze the rolled towel to absorb the water. If there is still a lot of moisture, unroll, replace with a fresh dry towel and repeat.
Step 5 — Reshape
While still damp, smooth by hand to remove wrinkles and straighten seams. Reshape to original dimensions.
Step 6 — Dry flat
Air-dry on a flat surface away from direct sunlight. Never hang alpaca knitwear — it will stretch out of shape.
Step 7 — Steam to finish
Once your sweater is completely dry, use a household steam iron on a vertical setting to gently remove any remaining wrinkles. Hang the sweater on a garment rack or stand, then hold the iron a few centimetres away from the fabric and apply steam in slow, downward strokes — never press the iron directly onto the alpaca fibres. The steam will relax the fibres and restore the sweater’s natural drape beautifully.
Tip: Never store your alpaca sweater on a hanger — always fold it flat in a drawer or on a shelf to prevent stretching.
Socks
Machine washable in cold water (hand wash preferred). Use a laundry bag and air dry. Do not tumble dry.
Storing Your Alpaca Garments
Ensure garments are clean and dry before long-term storage. Store in a light, airy place — never in plastic, vacuum or airtight bags (natural fibres need airflow to prevent mould). Add a natural moth deterrent: cedar chips, lavender, or scented soap.