How to Soften an Alpaca Sweater

How to Soften an Alpaca Sweater

Nobody wants an itchy sweater, especially when trying to stay cozy and warm in winter. Fortunately, there are a few effective methods to make wool feel softer.

1. Wash with a Special Detergent
   Using a gentle, wool-safe detergent is one of the best ways to reduce itchiness. Follow these steps:
• Fill a container with lukewarm water.
• Add a small amount of wool-safe detergent. Note: Some purists avoid soaking wool in detergent as it may dull or fade the fabric.
• Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water to remove all detergent.
• Roll the sweater in a fluffy towel to press out excess water.
• Lay it flat to dry on another clean, dry towel.
2. Use Shampoo and Conditioner
   Shampoo and conditioner aren’t just for your hair; they can also soften wool. Wash the item in cold water with a mild shampoo, press gently to remove excess water, then apply a conditioner evenly on both sides. Leave it for 5 minutes, rinse out the conditioner, and lay the wool item flat to dry.
3. Steam the Wool
   Gently steaming can soften wool fibers. Press an iron lightly on the wool surface, being careful not to stretch it. After steaming one side, slightly moisten a cloth, turn the item, and repeat on the other side.
4. Freeze the Wool
   Cold temperatures can reduce itchiness by softening wool fibers. Place the item in a plastic bag and leave it in the freezer for 24 hours. Remove, allow it to thaw, and rinse with cold water to bring back softness.
5. Dry on a Towel
   After washing or rinsing, lay the wool item flat on a clean towel to dry completely. This helps the wool retain its shape and softness.