5 Outstanding Qualities of Alpaca Fleece You Need to Know

Alpacas, in general, are cute camel-like animals that are commonly found in South America. However, they are just more than a tourist attraction and a funny cartoon character on the television. Alpacas, similar to sheep, are well-known for their fleece. 

Alpaca fleece is gaining a lot of popularity these days because of many good reasons. They are natural fibres that are harvested from alpaca in the safest way possible. It is likely a durable, silky, soft luxurious type of fibre manufactured into different garments and textiles. 

Alpaca fleece is very similar to sheep’s wool; it is also durable, warm, and hypoallergenic and very easy to maintain. The fleece is made into different products, from luxurious garments to very simple clothing. 

In terms of similarity, alpaca fibre is very similar to wool fibre. Its texture, quality and other characteristics mimic the same as wool. However, their only stark difference is the alpaca fleece has a distinct glossy shine compared to sheep wool. So, an alpaca quilt has a shinier aesthetics to it than a wool quilt. 

If you doubt the quality and advantages of the alpaca fleece, then you came to the right post. Listed below are some of the most notable benefits you can enjoy using this remarkable fibre. 

Economical

The industry behind alpaca fleece is relatively young in Europe, particularly in the United Kingdom, France, and other parts of the region. Roughly 20,000 alpaca are being bred there, while there have been reports where Australia is also breeding their own for the same purpose. The livestock’s numbers, according to experts, have already exceeded the needed supply, which means they need to export alpaca fleece shortly. It is also to cater to the growing demand in the market for alpaca fleece. 

Ethical

Harvesting alpaca fleece is closely monitored not just by the government of each country of its producers but also by animal rights groups. With this in mind, alpaca fleece producers follow ethical standards to keep the animals safe while harvesting their prized fleece. There are no chemicals, neither dyes are used in making these fleeces. Alpacas are not killed for their fleece. Also, alpaca meat is not as popular as sheep meat. 

Hygienic

Like wool, alpaca fleece is made from hollow fibres, allowing water and moisture to move freely. Thus, it is not prone to mould formation and other bacteria to produce because of our body’s moisture. It keeps our body dry and very cool during our sleep when it is used as bedding. Thus, it is very hygienic. 

Sustainable

This type of fleece is natural and completely renewable similar to sheep wool. They are sourced from alpaca farms and are sewn from workshops that follow quality standards. Only the alpaca’s natural waste is being produced in generating the fleece. Other than that, they are completely sustainable and eco-friendly. On top of it, alpaca fleece is biodegradable. 

Organic

The alpaca quilt is a highly organic material considering they come from the animal itself. The materials used in making the garments out of this fleece do not use chemicals and harmful processes which affect the environment. One of the negative aspects of producing wool or fleece is the artificial processes involving harmful chemicals to enhance its quality. However, most alpaca fleece producers have made sure they do not follow the same processes which damage the environment. 

The alpaca fleece is relatively new in the world of textile and garment. It is considered a young industry but full of promises. With all its quality, no doubt, in a few years, it will become a mainstream business for many farmers and makers. But, always remember to patronise a brand that cares for the animals and the environment.