Care guide

Alpaca

Alpaca is one of the most prized natural fibers in the world — and for good reason. Harvested from the Peruvian Andes, it’s softer than regular wool and warmer than cotton. Its hollow structure means it insulates well while remaining breathable, making it a go-to for cozy layering pieces. Plus, it’s surprisingly durable if you treat it with care.

How to wash your alpaca item?

Alpaca doesn’t need frequent washing. Make sure you give it time to breathe and recover after each wear. While some alpaca blends may be machine washable, most should be hand washed or dry cleaned. Always check the care label first.

Hand wash

Fill a clean basin or sink with cold water.
Add a small amount of mild wool detergent (no bleach, no fabric softener, a soft baby shampoo is recommended).
Gently submerge your item and soak for 5–10 minutes.
Swish gently — do not rub, twist or wring.
Rinse thoroughly with cold water until soap is gone.

How to dry your alpaca item?

Never tumble dry alpaca as the high heat can damage the fibers.

Instead:

Gently squeeze out excess water (do not wring).
Roll the garment in a clean towel and press to absorb moisture.
Lay flat between two dry towels in its natural shape, roll and press gently to get rid of excess water.
Let it air dry away from direct sunlight or heat sources, ideally laid out flat on a grill.

How to iron your alpaca item?

Alpaca rarely wrinkles, but if needed:

Use a steam iron on the wool setting, or better yet, a handheld steamer.
Always turn the item inside out.
Place a thin cloth (like a pressing cloth or cotton pillowcase) between the iron and the garment.
Avoid direct contact with the fibers to prevent flattening or shine.

How to store your alpaca item?

Alpaca is a natural fiber, so proper storage matters, especially during warmer months.

To store:

Clean your garment before storing — moths love worn fibers.
Fold (don’t hang) your piece to avoid stretching.
Place in a breathable cotton bag or pillowcase.
Store in a cool, dry space away from sunlight and humidity.

How to deal with stains on your alpaca item?

Act fast — alpaca can stain if spills sit too long.

To treat stains:

Blot (don’t rub!) the area gently with a clean cloth.
Use a mix of cold water and mild detergent, dabbed carefully onto the spot.
Rinse and dry flat as described above.
For tough stains, consult a professional cleaner with experience in wool or alpaca.

How to remove pilling from your alpaca item?

Even premium knits can pill — it’s normal with wear. Here’s what you can do:

Lay the item flat.
Use a fabric shaver or sweater stone gently across the surface.
Avoid pulling pills by hand as this can damage the knit.
De-pill sparingly to avoid thinning the fabric.

How to prevent moths in your alpaca item?

Natural fibers like alpaca can attract moths, especially in storage.

To prevent moth damage:

Always store clean (moths love sweat and food traces).
Use natural repellents like lavender sachets or cedarwood blocks.
Check your knits every few months, especially during long storage periods.
When checking, leave them out in the air for a few days before storing them again.