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Washing Alpaca Blankets – Why Proper Care is So Important
An alpaca blanket is not just a beautiful accessory for your home – it's a natural product that, with proper care, will remain soft, warm, and colorfast for years. Alpaca wool naturally has self-cleaning properties: simply airing the blanket outdoors occasionally is often enough to remove odors and refresh the fibers. Frequent washing is not necessary and can even damage the wool.
7 Tips for Caring for Your Alpaca Blanket
1. Don't Wash Too Often
Alpaca wool is naturally dirt-repellent and odor-neutral. Thorough airing outdoors – preferably in slightly humid conditions – freshens the fibers without the need for water. Only wash your alpaca blanket if it is visibly soiled.
2. Use Special Wool Detergent
Normal detergents contain enzymes and bleaches that can damage wool fibers. Always use a pH-neutral, enzyme-free wool detergent or a special alpaca care product. Mild baby shampoo is also a suitable alternative.
3. Wash Cold or Lukewarm at Most
Hot water causes felting and shrinks the blanket. Wash exclusively in cold water or at a maximum of 30 °C on a wool cycle or delicate cycle. Avoid temperature shocks – i.e., no sudden changes between hot and cold.
4. Do Not Spin or Wring
The spin cycle should be turned off or run at the lowest setting (max. 400 rpm). Never wring or twist the blanket! Instead, gently press it between two towels to absorb excess water.
5. Do Not Tumble Dry
The dryer is the greatest enemy of alpaca wool. The heat and mechanical stress will irrevocably felt the fibers. Instead, lay the blanket flat on a dry towel and roll it up lightly. Change the towel after a few hours. Do not dry the blanket in direct sunlight or on a heater.
6. Treat Stains Gently
For local stains, do not rub or scratch! Gently dab the spot with cold water and a drop of wool detergent. Let the solution sit for a few minutes, then rinse carefully with clear water.
7. Treat Each Blanket Individually
Not all alpaca blankets are the same: Pure alpaca wool reacts differently than blended fabrics with sheep wool or synthetic fibers. Always check the care label on your blanket. If you are unsure, it's better to have it professionally cleaned – many dry cleaners are familiar with natural fibers.
Caring for Alpaca Pillows – Special Considerations
Alpaca pillows with removable covers are particularly easy to care for: the cover can be washed as described above, while the alpaca fleece filling is occasionally aired and fluffed. Pillows with fixed covers (e.g., hand-felted models) should only be wiped with a damp cloth and air-dried.
Storage: How to Keep Your Alpaca Blanket Fresh
If you're not using the blanket in summer, store it clean, dry, and away from light – preferably in a breathable cotton or linen bag. Avoid plastic bags, as the wool needs to breathe and will otherwise become musty. Add a few cedarwood pieces or lavender sachets – this keeps moths away without chemicals.
Conclusion: Washing Alpaca Blankets – But With Care
With these simple tips, your alpaca blanket will remain soft, warm, and beautiful for years. The golden rule is: As little as possible, as gently as necessary. Airing instead of washing, wool detergent instead of heavy-duty detergent, flat drying instead of tumble drying. Then you will enjoy your piece of nature from the Andes for a long time – fair, sustainable, and with heart, just like with us on the alpaca farm.
You can also find more detailed tips in our guide Washing Wool Blankets: 7 Mistakes You Should Avoid.
