Quick Answer

Alpaca blankets are delicate and require dry cleaning only. To keep yours looking its best, avoid machine washing or soaking. For storage, use a breathable cotton bag and keep it away from moisture and direct sunlight.

Why Alpaca Blankets Need Special Care

Alpaca fibers are naturally soft, lightweight, and warmer than sheep's wool, but they are also more delicate. The blend of alpaca, wool, and cotton in a throw like the Prism Alpaca Throw Blanket creates a beautiful textured fabric that can shrink, felt, or lose its shape if exposed to water or agitation. That's why the manufacturer recommends dry cleaning only.

What You'll Need for Proper Care

For routine maintenance, keep a lint roller or a soft-bristle clothes brush handy to remove dust and pet hair. For storage, prepare a breathable cotton or muslin storage bag (never plastic) and a cool, dark closet. If you notice a small stain, take the blanket to a professional dry cleaner as soon as possible.

How to Care for Your Alpaca Blanket in 4 Steps

  1. Step 1: Spot clean stains immediately: If you spill something on your alpaca blanket, blot the area gently with a clean, dry cloth. Do not rub or apply water. Take the blanket to a professional dry cleaner and point out the stain. Common mistake: Trying to wash the stain at home with water or detergent, which can set the stain or damage the fibers. Always trust a professional for stain removal.
  2. Step 2: Dry clean only – no exceptions: Alpaca blends are not machine washable. The combination of alpaca, wool, and cotton in a throw like the Prism Alpaca Throw Blanket can shrink or felt in water. Take it to a reputable dry cleaner that handles delicate woolens. Common mistake: Assuming a gentle or hand-wash cycle is safe – it is not. Dry cleaning preserves the blanket's softness and shape.
  3. Step 3: Air out between wears: Alpaca fibers are naturally odor-resistant and self-cleaning. Instead of washing after every use, hang the blanket in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight for a few hours. This refreshes the fibers and reduces the need for cleaning. Common mistake: Over-cleaning, which wears down the delicate fibers faster. Less cleaning means a longer life for your blanket.
  4. Step 4: Store properly to prevent damage: Fold the blanket loosely and place it in a breathable cotton or muslin storage bag. Store in a cool, dark closet away from moisture, heat, and direct sunlight. Never use plastic bags, which trap humidity and can cause mildew or yellowing. Common mistake: Hanging the blanket, which can stretch the fibers over time. Flat storage in a breathable bag is the safest option.

Product Spotlight

  • Prism Alpaca Throw Blanket: Material: Front: 51% Cotton, 35% Wool, 10% Alpaca, 4% Polyamide / Back: 100% Cotton. Care: Dry clean only. The alpaca-wool blend gives the blanket its warmth and texture, but it also means water and machine washing can cause irreversible damage. Dry cleaning is the only safe method.