Care of Alpaca Products

The following instructions will help you wash, dry, and store your alpaca products.

There are two ways of washing your alpaca products: hand washing and dry cleaning. The use of a washing machine is not recommended. Most products require only hand washing, with a periodical dry cleaning if needed. Other products such as structured coats or finely woven items should only be dry cleaned.

Hand Washing

Use cool water and a mild soap or human hair shampoo.
Never use chlorine bleach. Woolite is not recommended.
Remove excess water carefully, avoiding any wringing or twisting.
Dry the product in a flat position in the shade. Block the product, reshaping it to it’s original dimensions.
By hand, carefully remove any wrinkles and straighten seams and facings. Never use a brush.
After the product has dried, touch up with a cool iron if needed.

Dry Cleaning

All pieces of an outfit should be cleaned at the same time to avoid color discrepancies after the washing process.
Inform the cleaner of any stains.
Ask the cleaner to use a fresh solvent in low heat and a process that does not involve tumbling.
If possible, use a dry cleaner that has experience with alpaca.

Storing and Preserving Your Product

Before storing ensure the item is completely dry.
Store the product in a moth free environment such as a cedar chest or in a zip lock bag in the freezer.
Sachets using dried lavender are also useful.
The use of moth balls is not recommended.