Looking After your Alpaca Wool Knitwear
Looking After Your Alpaca Wool Knitwear
Alpaca wool is one of nature's most luxurious fibres — incredibly soft, naturally warm, and surprisingly durable. But like all fine natural fibres, your alpaca pieces deserve a little extra love to keep them looking their best for years to come.
Alpaca wool is resistant to water, it does not get wet immediately after submerging in water. Unless otherwise stated on the garment care label, soak your Alpaca wool garment in cold water to remove dirt or any stains. This only needs to be done for 5 to 10 minutes or until the garment is completely soak.
Caring for Your Alpaca Products
Washing Your Alpaca
Always hand wash your alpaca garments in cool or lukewarm water. Use a gentle, wool-safe wash or baby shampoo. Avoid any harsh rubbing or wringing — alpaca fibres are delicate and can felt if agitated too much. If you prefer machine washing, use only the delicate or wool cycle on cold with a mesh laundry bag.
Drying
Never hang your alpaca pieces to dry — this can cause them to stretch out of shape. Instead, gently press out excess water (don't wring!), then lay the garment flat on a clean towel and reshape it to its original form. Allow it to air dry away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
Storing Your Alpaca
Store alpaca garments folded, never on a hanger, to prevent stretching. Keep them in a breathable cotton bag or drawer. Alpaca wool is not susceptible to moths or similar, but you can add a cedar block or lavender sachet to your storage space if prefer.
Dealing with Pilling
Some light pilling is completely normal, especially in areas of friction like underarms and sides. Use a fabric comb or a gentle lint shaver to remove pills and restore your garment's smooth finish.
Spot Cleaning
For small stains, act quickly. Put the stain area under cold running water then squeeze gently to remove excess of water. Then blot (don't rub) the area with a damp cloth and a tiny amount of wool wash or similar. Rinse with cold water and lay flat to dry.
The Golden Rule
Less is more when it comes to washing alpaca. Alpaca is naturally odour-resistant, so airing your garment out between wears is often all it needs. The less you wash it, the longer it will last.
Alpaca is naturally odour-resistant, so airing your garment out between wears is often all it needs.
With the right care, your Alpaca pieces from Alpei will remain a wardrobe staple for seasons to come.
Explore Our CollectionALPEI — Handcrafted Baby Alpaca, Made in Peru
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