Alpaca Yarn Care Guide

The short answer: hand wash alpaca yarn and knits in cold water with a mild wool wash, never wring or twist them, and dry them flat. Alpalove Sock Yarn is the one exception — it can go in the washing machine at 86 °F (30 °C) on a gentle cycle.

Alpaca fiber is naturally free of lanolin and resists odors, so knits made with Alpalove yarn need less washing than most wool. Caring for a duvet or throw? See our Alpaca Home Care Guide.

How to hand wash alpaca yarn and knits

This method applies to everything knit with Alpalove Pure Worsted, Pure Bulky, Super Air Worsted and Super Air Bulky.

1. Fill a basin with cold water — below 86 °F (30 °C). Hot water combined with rubbing is what makes alpaca felt and shrink.
2. Add a mild wool wash or gentle shampoo. Avoid regular detergent and bleach.
3. Submerge the piece and let it soak for 10–15 minutes. Gently press it under the water; do not rub or scrub.
4. Rinse in water of the same temperature. Sudden temperature changes can also cause felting.
5. Press out the water — never wring or twist. Alpaca is more delicate when wet. Roll the piece in a clean towel and press to absorb the excess water.
6. Dry flat, away from direct heat and sunlight. Reshape the piece to its original measurements while it is damp.

Prefer not to wash at home? Professional dry cleaning is also suitable for knits made with Alpalove Pure and Super Air yarns.

Alpalove Sock Yarn: the machine-washable exception

Alpalove Sock Yarn blends 75% baby alpaca with 25% recycled polyamide. The polyamide adds the strength socks need at heels and toes, and it is what makes this yarn machine washable.

• Machine wash at 86 °F (30 °C) on a gentle or wool cycle, or hand wash cold.
• Turn socks inside out and use a mesh laundry bag.
• Do not tumble dry. Lay flat to dry.
• Do not use bleach.

Shop Alpalove Sock Yarn →

How to store alpaca yarn and knits

• Fold, don't hang. Hanging stretches alpaca knits out of shape.
• Store clean. Moths are attracted to body oils and food traces, so wash or air knits before putting them away.
• Keep yarn in breathable bags, such as cotton or the reusable paper bag your Alpalove yarn arrives in. Avoid sealed plastic for long periods, which can trap moisture.
• Help deter moths with cedar or lavender sachets, and refresh them each season.

Why alpaca pills, and how to remove it

Pilling happens when short fibers work loose through friction — under the arms, on cuffs or where a bag rubs. It is normal for natural fibers, including alpaca, and usually settles after the first few wears.

Remove pills by gently brushing the surface with a fabric comb or sweater stone, working in one direction. Avoid pulling pills off by hand, which can loosen more fibers.

Alpaca yarn care FAQ

Can I put alpaca knits in the dryer?

No. Heat and tumbling cause alpaca to felt and shrink. Always dry knits made with Alpalove yarn flat, away from direct heat — including socks knit with Alpalove Sock Yarn.

Does alpaca yarn shrink?

Alpaca can shrink and felt when exposed to hot water, sudden temperature changes or agitation. Washing in cold water, rinsing at the same temperature and drying flat prevents it. Alpalove Sock Yarn is blended with recycled polyamide for machine washing at 86 °F (30 °C).

How often should I wash alpaca knits?

Less often than most wool. Because alpaca resists odors, airing is often enough between washes. Wash sweaters and accessories when they are visibly dirty; wash socks as needed.

How do I remove a stain from an alpaca knit?

Act quickly. Blot — don't rub — with a clean cloth, then dab the area with cold water and a little mild wool wash. Rinse with cold water and let it dry flat.

Should I wash my swatch before measuring gauge?

Yes. Wash and dry your swatch the same way you will care for the finished piece, then measure. Alpaca can relax and grow slightly after washing, and blocking your swatch first gives you an accurate gauge.

Have a question we didn't cover? Visit our FAQ or write to hello@alpalove.com.