Info shared by my SIL on the subject....
Cleaning any natural animal fiber garment/item can be done in a washing machine, as long as there is
no agitation at all, but it's not recommended for anything larger than socks. Felting can occur in the spin cycle, every bit as easily as agitation. The finer the fibers, the less handling it can take before felting.
Temperature changes between the wash and rinse water tends to be the most common cause of shrinkage. Make sure the water stays the same temperature. Lukewarm is best, about 100 to 105 degrees. Don't use extremely hot or cold water.
Laundry soap and dishwashing liquid can be too harsh. Baby or other mild shampoo is recommended, however skip the stuff with lots of fragrance or conditioners added the cheap stuff is just fine.
Swish your garment very, very gently in a pre cleaned sink with the shampoo, let sit for just two or three minutes, and rinse in same temp water. Be sure to think in advance about how you'll get the same temperature water for washing and rinsing. Maybe a bucket transferred from the tub once the temperature is set. Try to handle the item as little as possible.
Leave it in the sink for a few minutes for it to drain, gently squeeze just enough water out so you don't soak the floor when taking the garment out of the sink. Lay it out on a towel and GENTLY roll up in the towel. Don't squeeze or press hard- you only want to have the towel absorb more water. Leave it in the towel for 5 to 10 minutes. Transfer to a dry towel and let air dry. Drying time is highly controlled by room temperature and humidity.
Whatever you do, don't use Woolite! Even the "gentle" formula can be too harsh.
Finely woven or intricately detailed alpaca garments should be dry-cleaned.
Though not as susceptible as wool items, during the summer months, your alpaca items should be stored away from possible moth infestation by placeing the item in a sealed cedar chest, closed bag, or another moth protected environment.
Also, beware, dogs and cats like the smell of alpaca wool and have shown a tendency to chew alpaca items.
