The Ultimate Guide To Washing Your Alpaca Coat

how to wash alpaca coat

Alpaca coats are an investment piece, so it's important to know how to care for them properly. Alpaca wool is naturally antibacterial, antimicrobial, and odour-resistant, so you won't need to wash your coat often. However, when the time comes, it's best to opt for dry cleaning to ensure the delicate fibres are not damaged. If you're not satisfied with the results of dry cleaning, hand washing in cold or lukewarm water with a gentle detergent is an option, but it requires a lot of care and attention.

Characteristics Values
Pretreatment Pretreat stains with a gentle stain remover suitable for wool.
Pre-soak Soak in cold or lukewarm water with a gentle detergent, baby shampoo, or conditioner for 10-30 minutes.
Wash Gently press to allow water to flush through the fiber.
Rinse Rinse in cold or lukewarm water until the water is clear.
Dry Lay flat to dry in its natural shape.
Ironing Do not iron.
Storage Store in a breathable canvas storage bag with a zip closure.

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Hand-washing instructions

Alpaca coats are structured garments and are best dry-cleaned. However, if you want to hand-wash your coat, follow these steps:

  • Prepare the coat: Turn your coat inside out and place it in a mesh bag. The mesh bag will protect your coat from pulls.
  • Pre-soak: Fill a basin or your sink with lukewarm or cold water. Add a mild detergent or baby shampoo and let the coat soak for 20 to 30 minutes. Do not rub, brush, or agitate the coat.
  • Wash: Gently press the coat to allow the water and detergent to flush through the fibres. Do not rub, as this will felt the fibres. Do not use bleach or fabric softener.
  • Rinse: Rinse the coat in lukewarm or cold water several times until the water is clear. Gently squeeze out the excess water. Do not wring or twist the coat.
  • Dry: Place the coat between two towels and press gently to remove excess water. Then, lay the coat flat in its natural shape on a drying rack or towel and allow it to air-dry completely. Do not hang the coat to dry, as this will stretch the fabric.

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Machine-washing instructions

Firstly, it is important to note that machine washing is not recommended for alpaca coats. However, if you do decide to machine wash your coat, there are several steps you can take to ensure the best outcome.

Firstly, pretreat any stains with a gentle stain remover suitable for wool. Then, turn your coat inside out and place it in a mesh bag. This will protect your coat from snags and pulls. Select the wool or delicate cycle on your machine, and make sure the water temperature is cold. Use a gentle detergent designed for wool, such as Wool & Cashmere Shampoo, and avoid using fabric softener or bleach.

Once the cycle is complete, remove the coat from the machine promptly to reduce creasing. Do not put the coat in the dryer. Instead, lay it flat on a drying rack or towel, in its original shape, and allow it to air dry. Avoid direct sunlight and heat sources, as these can damage the fabric.

If your coat is particularly structured, it is best to take it to a dry cleaner instead of machine washing it.

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Stain removal

Alpaca wool is highly stain-resistant, but it is important to know how to remove stains when something is spilled on your alpaca coat. The first step is to wipe off any liquid with a clean cloth or paper towel, absorbing as much of the liquid as possible. Do not rub or brush the fabric, as this will cause the wool fibres to "jump out", which can lead to felting.

Next, if any stains remain, rinse the coat under cold, running water. The longer you wait to remove the stains, the harder it will be, so it is important to act quickly. If the stain is particularly stubborn, you can try soaking the coat in cold water with a dash of vinegar.

If the stain persists, you can try washing the coat completely. Use a gentle detergent designed for wool and follow the steps outlined previously: soak in cold or lukewarm water, gently squeeze out the excess water, and air-dry on a flat surface.

For very persistent stains, dry cleaning can be a last resort. Be sure to point out any stains to the dry cleaner so they can use the best method to remove them.

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Drying and reshaping

  • Remove Excess Water: Place your alpaca coat on a dry towel, supporting its weight. Gently ease the coat back into its original shape, being careful not to stretch it.
  • Roll in a Towel: Place a second towel on top of the coat and roll it up gently. Press or squeeze the towel to absorb excess water. Repeat this step with a fresh towel if needed.
  • Air Dry Flat: Lay the coat flat on a fresh, dry towel or a drying rack. It is crucial to let the coat air dry completely. Do not hang the coat, as this can cause stretching and deformation.
  • Avoid Heat and Sunlight: When drying, avoid direct sunlight and heat sources like radiators. These can cause yellowing, shrinkage, or damage to the fabric.
  • Reshape if Needed: While prevention is best, there are tricks to reshape an alpaca coat if it has become deformed. One method is to wash the coat with a conditioner, which will soften the fibres and allow you to stretch it back into its original form.
  • Steam to Remove Wrinkles: To remove any wrinkles that may have formed during the drying process, steaming is the best and safest option. Do not iron your alpaca coat, as this will crush the natural pile of the yarn.
  • Store Flat or on a Hanger: Once dry, carefully fold your coat, avoiding a centre crease. Alpaca coats can be stored flat in a drawer or on a shelf, or hung on a cedar hanger in a well-ventilated closet.

By following these steps, you can effectively dry and reshape your alpaca coat, ensuring it maintains its original shape and softness.

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Storage

Alpaca clothing can last for decades, but it's important to care for and store these items properly. Here are some tips for storing your alpaca coat:

Wash Before Storing

It is recommended to wash your alpaca coat before storing it, as moths are attracted to dirty clothes. Alpaca wool is naturally odour-resistant, but a quick wash will ensure your coat is fresh and clean before it goes into storage.

Store in an Airtight Container or Bag

To protect your alpaca coat from moths, it's best to store it in an airtight container or bag. Make sure there are no holes that moths could enter through. Clothing bags can be used, but ensure the material is moth-proof.

Keep it Dry

Before storing your alpaca coat, make sure it is completely dry. This will help prevent mould from growing in your airtight container. Alpaca wool has a special fibre texture with very little lanolin, which offers some protection from mould, but it's still important to ensure your coat is dry before storing it for a prolonged period.

Fold and Lay Flat

Alpaca wool items should be folded and laid flat when stored. Hanging your coat for an extended period can cause it to lose its shape. Alpaca wool is renowned for its elasticity, but the weight of the coat could pull it down and permanently alter its original shape.

Use a Natural Moth Repellent

Add a natural moth repellent to your storage container or bag. Cedar wood is a popular option, but you can also use lavender or make your own herbal sachets. Traditional herbal repellents are preferable to chemical mothballs, which can leave a nasty smell.

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Frequently asked questions

Alpaca coats should be dry-cleaned. If you are not satisfied with the results of dry cleaning, you can wash your coat by hand, using cold or lukewarm water and a gentle detergent. Make sure not to rub, brush, or agitate the coat, and avoid twisting or wringing it.

Alpaca coats are structured garments and need to be dry-cleaned. However, if you decide to use a washing machine, turn the coat inside out, place it in a mesh bag, and select the wool or delicate cycle with cold water.

After washing, place your coat on a towel in its original form and gently squeeze out any excess water. Then, put a second towel on top and roll up the coat to remove more water. Finally, lay the coat flat on a dry towel and leave it to air dry.

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