We recommend the following method: Gently hand wash in cool water (up to 85°F) with a small amount of mild liquid de tergent like baby shampoo or a fine fibers formula. (Using hot water, or even two different temperatures of water, will “shock” the fibers, making them mat together and start turning into felt.) Do not use chlorine bleach or even gentle Woolite, as these harsh cleaners will cause damage.

 

Do not use the hand wash cycle in a washing machine. Gently press to remove excess water. Do not wring or twist; hand- le gently to avoid wrinkles and distortion. Dry flat (lay horizontally for drying). Block to dry (reshape to original dimensions while drying). Smooth by hand while wet to remove wrinkles and straighten the seams and facings.

 

If you don’t have the time to hand-wash your alpaca garments, you can always take them to a professional dry-cleaner. Bring along any labels or care tags that cameuse the best method to remove them.

 

 

Alpaca clothing can last for decades, but its greatest enemies are moths and other pests that cause damage during sto rage. (Although certain dogs have been known to love the scent of alpaca!) If you need to put your alpaca away during warmer months, give it a good clean first following the instructions above — pests are drawn to dirt and body oils on fibers.

 

You can keep pests away from any garment by storing it in a chest of inspect-repelling Spanish cedar, or by placing cedar chips in the storage area. To keep away moths, use lavender bundles.

 

A shirt box, clean pillow case, clean paper bag, or cardboard box will keep the air circulating around the garment. Never use plastic or dry cleaning bags for your alpaca, as this will cause moisture to build up and the fibers will felt. And like any other knit garment, alpaca clothing should be folded rather than hung to prevent stretching and distortion.