Cleaning Alpaca Fur

If you want to care for your alpaca fur properly, consistency matters more than effort. You don’t need much for regular maintenance – just a few helpful tools: a special alpaca fur brush or a wide-tooth comb or brush is usually enough for basic grooming. For light stains, cold distilled water works well. For tougher spots – or if washing is possible (only if your product is labelled as washable) – you can use our special alpaca fur shampoo with soapwort extract. Finally, use a large towel to gently press out moisture, and leave the fur to dry in a well-ventilated, airy place.

Everyday Care for Alpaca Fur

• Use an alpaca fur brush or a wide-tooth comb/brush
• Always brush in the direction of hair growth to prevent breakage
• Brush and shake regularly to keep the fur soft and fluffy
• Air out regularly in a cool, shaded and well-ventilated spot

Wondering “Do I need to wash alpaca fur?” In many cases, the answer is no. Alpaca fur is naturally low-maintenance – often it’s enough to shake it out, brush it regularly and air it in a cool, shaded place (ideally outdoors). That way, your fur stays soft and fluffy without being unnecessarily exposed to water.

If your alpaca fur does need cleaning – for example, due to stains – you’ll find practical tips below on how to clean it gently and effectively.

Removing Stains: Spot Cleaning Alpaca Fur Without Washing

For minor stains, gentle brushing with distilled water is often enough – a targeted, spot-cleaning method. Use cold distilled water and brush softly in the direction of hair growth.

Why use distilled water to clean alpaca fur? Minerals in tap water can damage the delicate alpaca fibres.

Avoid Strong Odours – Alpaca Fibres Absorb Scents Easily

Alpaca fibres have a hollow core, which makes them more absorbent to odours like perfume or smoke. Tip: Prevention is best – avoid storing or using the fur in smoky environments, skip heavy fragrances and instead air it out regularly.

Can You Wash Alpaca Fur?

Yes – but only if your item is specifically labelled as “washable alpaca fur.” Very important: Do not wash it too often! Alpaca fur is naturally self-cleaning. It repels dirt and moisture on its own and often refreshes itself simply through exposure to fresh air. That’s what makes caring for alpaca fur so wonderfully easy.

Washing Alpaca Fur in the Washing Machine (Only if Washable)

At what temperature can you wash alpaca fur? If your product is marked as washable, follow these guidelines:

• Use cold water or a maximum of 30 °C
• Spin gently – max. 600 rpm

Which Washing Cycle Is Best for Alpaca Fur?

Ideally, wash your alpaca fur by hand or select the wool or hand wash cycle on your machine (cold or up to 30 °C). Important: Wash as infrequently as possible! Never leave the fur sitting wet after washing.

Which Detergent Should You Use to Clean Alpaca Fur?

For cleaning alpaca fur, we strongly recommend our special alpaca fur shampoo with soapwort extract. Do not use standard laundry detergent, fabric softener or harsh cleaners. Always test on an inconspicuous area first.

Drying Alpaca Fur – Immediately After Washing

After washing, always lay the fur out flat to dry right away – otherwise, the alpaca leather backing can become stiff or even tear.

Not Washable: Some Alpaca Fur Products Should Never Be Washed

If your product is marked with “This item is not washable!”, then please:

• Do not machine wash
• Do not hand wash

Instead, care for your alpaca fur by brushing, shaking it out, and airing it in a cool, shaded place. Treat stains with spot cleaning only – using distilled water or our special shampoo (always test first). That way, you can clean your alpaca fur without damaging the fibres or the leather backing.

How to Dry Alpaca Fur Properly – For Soft Fur and Supple Leather

After washing, lay the alpaca fur flat and in an airy place – for example, on a drying rack on the balcony. Be sure not to place it in direct sunlight or near heat sources like radiators. Never tumble dry.

Keep It Dry! Why Moisture Can Damage the Leather

One key rule when cleaning alpaca fur: keep the leather backing as dry as possible. Here’s why:

• Excess moisture can cause the alpaca leather to stiffen and crack.
• The fibres also lose strength if they become too wet.

That’s why it’s essential to clean gently and avoid soaking the leather side – whether you’re removing stains or washing the entire piece.

How to Make Alpaca Fur Fluffy Again

If your alpaca fur has flattened, regular brushing is the best way to restore its fluffiness. Brush gently in the direction of the hair growth, shake it out occasionally and let it air in a cool, shaded place. This keeps the fur soft and fluffy – and reduces the need for frequent washing.