Can you put alpaca in the washing machine?

Only if the label allows it, on a wool or hand-wash cycle with cold water and low spin. Hand washing is the safest option.

Does alpaca wool shrink?

It can felt and shrink with hot water, rubbing or sudden changes in temperature. Keep the water cool, don't wring it and dry it flat.

How do you wash alpaca socks?

Check the label: many sock blends allow a cold wool cycle. Turn them inside out and air dry them; don't use the dryer.

How often should you wash an alpaca sweater?

Not often. Alpaca resists odors, so airing it out between wears is usually enough; wash it a few times per season or when it's visibly soiled.

How to Wash Alpaca Wool: Sweaters, Socks & Blankets

By the Alpaca Atlas team · Updated September 28, 2026

Hand wash alpaca in cool water with a gentle wool detergent, press out water without wringing, roll it in a towel and dry it flat away from heat. Store it folded, never on a hanger, with cedar or lavender to keep moths away. Always check the care label first.

Washing, step by step

Check the care label: some pieces, especially blends and structured coats, are dry clean only.
Fill a basin with cool or lukewarm water and a small amount of wool or gentle detergent.
Submerge the garment and swirl gently for a few minutes. Don't rub or twist.
Rinse in water of the same temperature; sudden temperature changes can felt the fibers.
Press the water out, then roll the piece in a dry towel to absorb more.
Reshape and dry flat, away from direct sun and radiators.

Alpaca socks and blankets

Most alpaca socks are blends with nylon and elastane, so their labels vary: some can go in the machine on a cold wool cycle, others are hand wash only. Turn them inside out, skip the dryer and let them air dry.

Blankets and throws are heavy when wet. Wash them in a bathtub, support the weight as you lift them so they don't stretch, and dry them flat over a rack or several towels. Large or woven pieces are often dry clean only: check the label.

Pilling, storage and moths

Light pilling in friction areas is normal; remove it with a sweater comb or fabric shaver. Store alpaca folded, since hanging can stretch shoulders, and keep it clean before storing, because moths are attracted to body oils and food traces. Cedar blocks or lavender sachets help.

Frequently asked questions

Can you put alpaca in the washing machine?: Only if the label allows it, on a wool or hand-wash cycle with cold water and low spin. Hand washing is the safest option.
Does alpaca wool shrink?: It can felt and shrink with hot water, rubbing or sudden changes in temperature. Keep the water cool, don't wring it and dry it flat.
How do you wash alpaca socks?: Check the label: many sock blends allow a cold wool cycle. Turn them inside out and air dry them; don't use the dryer.
How often should you wash an alpaca sweater?: Not often. Alpaca resists odors, so airing it out between wears is usually enough; wash it a few times per season or when it's visibly soiled.