Peru is the largest producer of Alpaca fiber, accounting for 90% of the world’s total production. However, countries such as the USA, Canada, New Zealand, and Australia have also attempted to breed alpacas, as their fiber is recognized as one of the finest for textile production.

WASHING INSTRUCTIONS

As producers of woolen garments, we are happy to provide advice on how to care for your precious purchase. Don’t worry—it’s not difficult! To ensure that your garment remains as stunning as the day you bought it, please keep the following in mind:

• Alpaca wool is self-cleaning. After wearing, simply hang it out to air.
• Avoid spot cleaning. Always wash the entire garment, not just the stained area.
• Wash similar colors separately.
• Never use bleach!
• Hand washing is the recommended method. This is the gentlest way to care for alpaca garments. Be mindful that temperature changes and agitation while wet can cause wool to shrink and/or felt. The greater the temperature change and agitation, the higher the risk of shrinkage and felting.
• If you prefer machine washing, we suggest washing wool at 0°C on a wool cycle, using the wool spin cycle. If you choose this method, it’s at your own discretion. A delicate wash with a lower temperature setting is generally safer.
• Use a pH-neutral detergent, or preferably, a special wool detergent.
• When rinsing, ensure the temperature of the rinsing water is the same as the washing water.

Grace’s tip: “I usually place my alpaca sweaters in a bucket of water with neutral detergent and let them soak for two hours. After soaking, I hand rinse them and let them dry on the clothesline in my garden. I recommend avoiding using a clothesline with a thin surface, as it may leave marks on the sweater.”

DRYING

• We do not recommend using a dryer. However, if you decide to use one, select a delicate or low-temperature fluff setting, and only leave the garment in the dryer for a very short period.
• Dry flat, away from direct sunlight. Never hang or lay a wool garment to dry when it’s saturated with water. Try to remove as much water as possible before laying it out. Avoid placing it on anything that absorbs moisture, such as a towel, as this can cause the colors to run and deteriorate the garment’s natural elasticity.
• Reshaping the garment may be necessary to restore it to its original dimensions. Gently remove wrinkles and straighten seams by hand. Avoid using a brush. Once dry, you may touch up any wrinkles with a cold iron.
• Pilling and balling are normal occurrences with wool garments. To remove pilling and keep your item looking fresh, use a wool comb or do it by hand. It’s a natural process that doesn’t require chemicals or batteries.
• When ironing, use a steam iron or place a damp protective cloth between the iron and the wool surface.

STORING TO PRESERVE

Before storing, make sure the garments are completely dry. The second most important consideration is protection against moths. To prevent damage, consider storing items in cedar chests, plastic zip-lock bags, or plastic tubs. We do not recommend using mothballs.

Follow these steps to enjoy your alpaca treasures for years to come!