Alpaca wool comes from the domesticated South American alpaca llama. Native to the Andes mountains of Peru, Bolivia, and other countries in the region, alpacas are sheared once a year for their prized fleece.
Known for its softness and warmth alpaca wool is also delicate and requires special care to maintain its quality.
• To clean alpaca garments, hand washing is the safest method. Use lukewarm water and a gentle knitwear detergent or baby shampoo and make sure to wash with like colors.
To remove stains from your alpaca item, soak it in the water with a mild detergent for 20-30 minutes. Gently dab at the stained area and avoid scrubbing as this can damage the fibers.
Place your knit between two towels and roll them without twisting to absorb excess water.
Reshape it to its original dimensions and let it air dry on a flat surface away from direct sunlight.
Never hang your alpaca garments as this can cause them to stretch or lose their shape. Fold them neatly and store them on a shelf in a cool, dry place, protected from dust and potential moth damage.
If you've stored your alpaca garment in a vacuum-sealed bag during warmer months, gently fluff it up by shaking it lightly. This will help restore its look and softness.