Take the best possible care of your shawl - Everything you need to know about maintenance and care

How to Care for and Maintain Merino Wool, Alpaca and Cashmere Shawls

Shawls made from natural materials like merino wool , alpaca and cashmere are known for their softness, warmth and luxurious feel. But these delicate fibres also require special care to maintain their quality and ensure they last year after year. Improper washing, drying or storage can quickly destroy the shawl's delicate texture and cause it to wear out prematurely.

In this blog post, we review the best tips and tricks for how to care for and maintain shawls made of merino wool, alpaca and cashmere so that they remain soft, beautiful and comfortable to wear.

General Care Principles for Natural Fibers

Before we dive into the specific care instructions for each material, there are some general rules that apply to all shawls made from natural fibers like merino wool, alpaca, and cashmere:

Avoid machine washing: Most natural fiber shawls should be hand washed or professionally cleaned to avoid damage such as shrinkage or felting.

Use mild detergent: A special detergent for wool or silk is the best choice, as regular detergents can be too harsh and damage the fibers.

Dry the shawl flat: Avoid hanging the shawl to dry as this can stretch it out of shape. Instead, lay it flat on a towel to maintain its shape.

Caring for Merino Wool Shawls

Merino wool is known for its softness and ability to regulate temperature, making it an ideal material for shawls. However, merino wool requires careful care to maintain its fine structure.

How to wash merino wool shawls

Hand wash in cold water: Merino wool should always be washed in cold water to avoid shrinkage. Use a mild detergent specifically for wool and avoid twisting the shawl as this can damage the fibers.

Avoid harsh rubbing: Handle the shawl gently when washing it and let it soak for 5-10 minutes to remove dirt. Rub gently on any areas that may have stains.

Dry flat on a towel: After washing, roll the shawl in a towel to remove excess water, then lay it flat to dry.

Storing merino wool shawls

When you are not wearing your merino wool shawl, it should be stored flat, preferably in a fabric bag to prevent moths. Avoid hanging it, as this can pull the fibers out of shape over time.

Caring for Alpaca Shawls

Alpaca wool is a luxurious and durable material that is softer and lighter than regular wool. Alpaca wool is also less prone to pilling, but it still requires careful handling to maintain its fine quality.

How to wash alpaca shawls

Wash gently in lukewarm water: Alpaca shawls should preferably be hand washed in lukewarm water and a mild detergent for wool or a special product for alpaca wool. Avoid temperature shock as this can cause the fibers to shrink.

Rinse thoroughly: Rinse the shawl several times in lukewarm water to ensure all detergent is out of the fibers. Avoid wringing the shawl – instead, gently squeeze out the water by rolling it in a towel.

Dry flat and avoid direct sunlight: Lay the alpaca shawl flat on a towel and dry it in a place where it is not exposed to direct sunlight, which can bleach the fibers.

Storing alpaca shawls

Alpaca shawls should be stored folded in a box or fabric bag to protect them from moths. Alpaca has a natural resistance to odors, so you don't need to wash it often - just air it out after use.

Care of Cashmere Shawls

Known as one of the most luxurious fibers, cashmere is both soft and incredibly lightweight. With proper care, a cashmere shawl can last for many years and even become softer over time.

How to wash cashmere shawls

Hand wash with care: Cashmere shawls should always be washed in cold or lukewarm water with a special cashmere detergent or a mild wool detergent. Avoid rubbing or pulling the fabric as cashmere fibers are very delicate.

Squeeze out the water gently: After washing, avoid twisting the shawl. Instead, squeeze out the water by laying the shawl flat on a towel and then gently rolling it up to absorb the water.

Let the shawl dry naturally: Dry the cashmere shawl flat on a dry towel and avoid hanging it. Hanging can cause the shawl to lose its shape and stretch.

Storage of cashmere shawls

Store your cashmere shawl in a fabric bag or a mothproof drawer when not in use. Cashmere is particularly susceptible to moths, so it is important to protect it from pests. Avoid hanging cashmere shawls as this can cause them to stretch and lose their shape.

Tips for Long-Term Maintenance

To make your merino wool, alpaca and cashmere shawls last as long as possible, there are some additional tips you can follow:

Avoid frequent washing: Since these fibers are naturally odor and stain resistant, you don't need to wash them often. Air the shawls out between uses to freshen them up.

Be careful with jewelry: Be aware that shawls can get caught on jewelry or other sharp objects, which can create threads or holes.

Brush gently: If lint or small fibers appear, you can gently brush the shawl with a cashmere or wool brush to remove them without damaging the fibers.

Merino wool, alpaca and cashmere shawls are not only elegant and comfortable, but also an investment in quality. By following the right care instructions, you can ensure that your shawls remain beautiful and soft for many years. Hand washing, proper drying and storage are key to preserving the luxurious feel of the fibers and extending the life of your shawls.

By taking good care of your shawls, you can ensure that they continue to be a stylish and practical accessory through many winter seasons.