How to Wash an Alpaca Throw Blanket (Without Ruining It)

You've invested in a beautiful alpaca throw blanket — one of the softest, most luxurious things you own. The last thing you want is to pull it out of the wash looking like a felted doormat. The good news? Washing alpaca is easier than most people think, as long as you follow a few simple rules.

How Often Should You Wash an Alpaca Throw?

Alpaca fiber has natural properties that resist odor and repel dirt, so you don't need to wash your throw as often as you might think. Airing it out between uses is usually enough for day-to-day freshness. A full wash every few months — or when visibly soiled — is typically all it needs.

What You'll Need

• A clean sink or bathtub (or a washing machine with a delicate/wool cycle)
• Cool or lukewarm water — never hot
• A gentle, pH-neutral detergent (wool wash or baby shampoo works well)
• Two clean dry towels
• A flat drying surface out of direct sunlight

Hand Washing (Recommended)

Hand washing is the gentlest method and the one we recommend for your alpaca throw blanket.

1. Fill your sink or tub with cool or lukewarm water. Add a small amount of gentle detergent and swirl to dissolve.
2. Submerge the throw and gently press it into the water. Do not wring, twist, or scrub — this can cause felting and distort the weave.
3. Let it soak for 10–15 minutes, gently moving it through the water once or twice.
4. Rinse thoroughly with cool water until all soap is removed. Again, no wringing — just gentle pressing.
5. Remove excess water by pressing the throw against the side of the sink, then rolling it in a dry towel and pressing firmly.
6. Lay flat to dry on a clean surface away from direct sunlight or heat. Reshape gently while damp.

Machine Washing (If Necessary)

If you prefer to use a washing machine, use the delicate or wool cycle with cold water and a gentle detergent. Place the throw in a mesh laundry bag for extra protection. Skip the spin cycle if possible, or use the lowest spin setting to minimize stress on the fibers.

Never use a dryer. Heat is the enemy of alpaca — it can cause irreversible shrinkage and damage the fiber structure.

What to Avoid

• ❌ Hot water (causes shrinkage and felting)
• ❌ Wringing or twisting (distorts the weave)
• ❌ Tumble drying (heat damages alpaca fibers)
• ❌ Harsh detergents or bleach (strips natural oils from the fiber)
• ❌ Hanging to dry (the weight of wet alpaca can stretch it out of shape)

Storing Your Alpaca Throw

When not in use, fold your throw and store it in a breathable cotton bag or pillowcase — avoid plastic, which can trap moisture. Adding a cedar block or lavender sachet nearby will help deter moths naturally without chemicals.

What About Dry Cleaning?

Dry cleaning is safe for alpaca throws, but it's not necessary for routine cleaning. If your throw has a stubborn stain or you'd simply prefer to leave it to the professionals, choose a dry cleaner experienced with delicate natural fibers.

The Reward: A Throw That Lasts Decades

With proper care, an alpaca throw blanket can last 20, 30, even 50 years — getting softer with every wash. It's one of the reasons our throws are considered heirloom pieces. Treat it well, and it will be one of the best things you own for a very long time.

For more care tips, check out our guides on caring for alpaca socks and caring for alpaca clothing.