Taking care of alpaca clothing the right way can feel a bit intimidating at first, especially if you're used to more conventional fabrics. But the truth is, learning how to wash and preserve your alpaca clothes is simpler than it seems, and incredibly worth it.
Alpaca wool is a rare blend of softness, durability, and natural elegance, but like all beautiful things, it thrives with the right kind of care.
If you've ever hesitated before washing that cherished alpaca sweater or wondered how to store it without losing its shape, you're not alone, and you're in the right place.
Let’s dive into how to care for your alpaca garments properly, so they keep their warmth, beauty, and story for years to come.
Why alpaca needs less washing
One of the quiet luxuries of alpaca wool is how little it asks of you. Unlike other fibers that demand constant cleaning and care, alpaca is naturally equipped to stay fresh longer.
Its secret? A powerful trio of natural benefits that make it beautifully low-maintenance.
Naturally antibacterial and odor-resistant
Alpaca fibers naturally repel bacteria, which means they don’t hold on to odors like synthetic or even other natural materials often do.
Even after several wears, your alpaca garment is likely to smell clean and feel fresh, no need to wash it after every use. A gentle shake and a bit of airing out usually do the trick.
Strong, durable, and long-lasting
Despite its softness, alpaca is incredibly strong. Its fibers have a natural elasticity and structure that make them less prone to breaking down over time, which is part of why alpaca socks are the coziest choice.
This means you can wear it often and wash it less, without worrying about it losing its shape or feel.
Less prone to stains, pilling, or static
Alpaca wool is also less absorbent, which helps it resist staining from everyday mishaps.
It doesn’t attract static, and it pills far less than cashmere or sheep’s wool, meaning your garment keeps its clean, smooth look with minimal effort.
All of this together means you can enjoy your alpaca pieces more often, with fewer washes and less wear over time. It's not just practical, it's part of what makes alpaca such a thoughtful, lasting choice.
When dry cleaning is the best option
Not all alpaca garments are created equal. While many can be washed by hand at home, some pieces truly do better with professional care.
Coats, jackets, and ponchos: dry clean only
Structured pieces like coats, jackets, and ponchos should always be dry cleaned. These garments often include linings, stitching or tailored finishes that can lose their shape in water.
Washing them at home can distort the design or reduce their lifespan, so it’s best to leave these in expert hands.
Choose eco-friendly cleaners when possible
If you're taking your alpaca piece to the dry cleaner, opt for one that uses eco-conscious methods. Many modern cleaners offer services that avoid toxic chemicals and reduce environmental impact.
It's a small choice that respects both the planet and the craftsmanship behind your garment.
Avoid trichloroethylene and harsh chemicals
Stay away from traditional solvents like trichloroethylene, which are still common in many dry cleaning services. They're not only harsh on the fibers, they’re also harmful to your skin and to the environment.
Ask your cleaner what products they use, and don’t hesitate to request gentler alternatives.
How to hand wash alpaca knitwear
For soft knitwear like sweaters, scarves, or hats, hand washing is often the safest and kindest method. It helps preserve the natural softness of the alpaca and avoids unnecessary stress on the fibers.
Here’s how to do it right.
Step 1: Soak gently in cold or lukewarm water
Fill a clean basin or sink with cold or lukewarm water, never hot. Add a few drops of mild wool detergent or a gentle baby shampoo.
Submerge the garment and let it soak for 5 to 10 minutes, gently pressing the water through the fabric with your hands.
Step 2: Rinse without twisting or wringing
Drain the soapy water and refill with clean water to rinse. You may need to repeat this a couple of times to remove all residue.
Avoid twisting, wringing or scrubbing the garment. Handle it gently, alpaca likes to be treated with care.
Step 3: Dry flat between towels
Lay the wet garment flat on a clean, dry towel. Roll it up softly to absorb excess water.
Then, reshape the piece and let it dry flat on a fresh towel in a shaded area, away from direct sunlight or heat.
Never hang alpaca knitwear to dry, as it can stretch and lose its original form.
Taking these small steps helps your alpaca knitwear age beautifully, soft, intact, and always ready to wear.
4 pro tips for long-lasting garments
When it comes to alpaca, proper care isn’t just about washing, it’s also about how you treat your garments the rest of the time.
These simple habits can help your pieces stay soft, clean, and in perfect shape, season after season.
1. Store clean, folded, and flat
Always store your alpaca garments clean. Even invisible traces of sweat or perfume can attract moths or weaken the fiber over time.
Fold them carefully and lay them flat in a drawer or breathable storage box. Hanging knitwear can stretch it out, and we don’t want that.
2. Air out with mist, not heat
If your garment needs a little refresh, don’t reach for the iron or steamer.
Instead, lightly mist it with water using a spray bottle and let it breathe for a few hours in a shaded, well-ventilated space. It’s gentler and keeps the fibers intact.
3. Use cedar or lavender for moth protection
Alpaca wool is less attractive to moths than other animal fibers, but that doesn’t mean you're entirely safe.
Pop a few cedar blocks or sachets of dried lavender wherever you store your pieces. They smell good, and moths hate them. Win-win.
4. Brush gently to revive texture and remove dirt
From time to time, use a soft-bristled brush to gently lift the fibers. This helps remove surface dust and brings back that natural, airy texture.
Brush in the direction of the knit, think of it as a little spa moment for your favorite garment.
With these easy habits, your alpaca pieces will stay as timeless and elegant as the day you first wore them.
What to do if a piece shrinks
It happens. You followed all the steps, but somehow your alpaca piece still came out smaller than it went in.
Don’t panic, there’s still hope. Alpaca fibers are resilient, and with a bit of care, you may be able to bring your garment back to life.
Conditioner can help loosen fibers
Fill a basin with lukewarm water and a small amount of hair conditioner or gentle wool conditioner. Let the garment soak for about 15 to 20 minutes.
The conditioner softens the fibers, making them more flexible and easier to reshape.
Stretch gently while damp to restore shape
After soaking, remove the excess water by rolling the garment in a towel, no wringing or twisting.
While the piece is still damp, lay it flat and begin to stretch it gently, section by section. Focus on width, length, or sleeves depending on where it shrank.
Be patient and take your time. You might not get it back to its original size completely, but you can often restore enough shape for it to feel and fit right again.
And next time? Just a reminder, cold water, gentle handling, and flat drying always win with alpaca.
Knitbrary and the value of proper care
At Knitbrary, every piece tells a story, one of time, tradition, and hands that weave slowly, with purpose. Taking care of these garments is not just about preserving fabric. It’s a way of honoring the process, the place, and the people behind each stitch.
Handmade deserves thoughtful maintenance
Each Knitbrary garment is hand-knitted by artisans in Peru, using only the finest natural fibers, from royal alpaca to the rare and exquisite Vicuña.
These fibers are living materials. They breathe, they adapt, and they carry with them the quiet beauty of their origin, like the highlands where alpacas live. Caring for them mindfully helps maintain their character and soul.
Preserve the shape, color, and softness
With just a bit of attention, your Knitbrary pieces stay as graceful and refined as when you first wore them.
No fading. No stretching. Just the same delicate drape, warmth, and softness, whether it’s one of our signature knits or a timeless piece from the coats edition.
A small ritual that honors craftsmanship
Taking a few minutes to air out a piece, to fold it with care or wash it by hand, is more than a habit. It’s a quiet ritual that mirrors the slowness and intention of how it was made.
Because when something is crafted to endure, it deserves to be cared for with the same patience and reverence.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Can I wash my alpaca sweater at home?
Yes, you can, but gently.
Most alpaca knitwear can be hand washed at home using cold or lukewarm water and a mild detergent. Always dry flat and avoid wringing or twisting the garment.
For coats or structured pieces, dry cleaning is the safer option.
What detergent is safe for alpaca?
Choose a mild, natural detergent, ideally one made for wool or delicate fabrics. Baby shampoo can also work in a pinch.
Avoid anything with enzymes, bleach, or harsh chemicals. Even though they’re durable, alpaca fiber itchy concerns can arise from improper care, so they appreciate softness.
How do I store alpaca garments off-season?
Always store them clean, folded, and flat. Never hang alpaca knitwear, as it can lose its shape over time.
Place them in a breathable cotton bag or a drawer with cedar or lavender sachets to keep moths away. And if you're storing long-term, avoid plastic bags, alpaca needs to breathe.
Can I iron or steam alpaca wool?
It’s best not to. High heat can damage alpaca fibers and alter the garment’s shape.
If needed, lightly mist the piece with water and let it air out flat. For wrinkles, laying it under a towel with a book on top overnight can help soften creases gently.
When in doubt, go slow, go soft, alpaca rewards patience.