Why Knowing Exactly How to Wash Alpaca Matters

This is a follow up post to a blog we published last year on taking care of your alpaca knitwear and goes into a little bit more detail on washing and refreshing.

Caring for your alpaca clothing isn’t complicated, but it does require a gentle approach. Alpaca fibre is naturally soft, durable and very low maintenance, but like anything worthwhile, it benefits from being treated properly.

The good news is that alpaca doesn’t need frequent washing. The fibres naturally resist dirt and odours, so often a simple airing is enough.

But when it does need a proper clean, understanding how to wash alpaca makes all the difference.

How to Wash Alpaca: A Simple 6-Step Guide

Here’s the proper way to do it, without turning your wrap, cardigan or socks into something that fits a small dog:

1. Fill a basin with cool or lukewarm water

   Never use hot water. It can damage fibres and distort shape.

2. Add a small amount of gentle wool wash

   Do use a mild, wool-safe detergent. No biological detergents or harsh chemicals.

3. Submerge and soak gently

   Let it rest for 10-15 minutes. No scrubbing, no rubbing. Just patience.

4. Rinse with clean, cool water

   Drain and refill with clean water. Gently press, but don’t wring, to remove detergent.

5. Remove excess water carefully

   Press water out using your hands or a towel. Twisting is how people ruin nice things.

6. Lay flat to dry and reshape

   Lay on a clean towel, reshape while damp and leave to dry naturally. Hanging will only stretch it.

Machine Washing Alpaca

If handwashing feels like a step too far, there is a gentler machine option available.

Set your machine to a Wool/Silk cycle with cool water and a very small amount of gentle wool wash. Place your alpaca inside a mesh laundry bag to protect it.

Avoid agitation and absolutely avoid a high spin cycle.

Then - and this part really matters - go straight back to steps 5 and 6 above. Your machine should not be used to finish the job.

What to Avoid When Washing Alpaca

Just to reinforce what could be missed:

• No hot water
• No harsh detergents
• No wringing or twisting
• No tumble drying

Alpaca is low maintenance, but it’s not indestructible.

Refreshing Without Washing

Most of the time, you won’t need to wash your alpaca knitwear at all.

Airing it outside or giving it a light steam will often restore freshness and shape. That’s because alpaca naturally resists odours, which means less effort for you.

Fibre That Rewards Care, Knitwear That Lasts and Lasts

Learning how to wash alpaca properly isn’t about doing more. It’s about doing less, but doing it properly.

Handle your knitwear gently. Wash it only when needed. And always let it dry naturally, in a warm, not hot space. Stick with our proven formula and it will quietly do its job for years.

Got a Question About Washing Alpaca Knitwear?

Find the answer here:

How often should I wash alpaca knitwear?

You should only wash alpaca knitwear when it genuinely needs it. Most of the time, airing it between wears is enough to keep it fresh.

Can I wash alpaca knitwear in the washing machine?

Yes, but only with care. Use a cool Wool/Silk cycle, place the garment in a mesh laundry bag and avoid high spin.

What temperature should I use when washing alpaca?

Use cool or lukewarm water. Hot water can damage alpaca fibres, affect softness and cause the garment to lose shape.

What detergent should I use for washing alpaca?

Use a gentle wool wash or mild wool-safe detergent. Avoid biological detergents, bleach, fabric softener and harsh chemicals.

Can I tumble dry alpaca knitwear?

No. Tumble drying can shrink or distort alpaca knitwear. Always press out excess water gently and lay the garment flat to dry naturally.

How can I refresh alpaca without washing it?

Air it outside or use a light steam to freshen the fibres and help restore shape. Washing alpaca is only needed occasionally.