Does Alpaca Wool Shed? (Causes, Prevention and Solutions)

Ever worn a black T-shirt with a wool garment on top? If you have, you know what I’m getting at… Yes, I’m talking about ALL THOSE HAIRS! The ones that stick onto your clothes after wearing something woolly. No fun, no fun! Now, you are probably wondering if alpaca wool sheds, too?

Alpaca wool garments shed less than sheep wool. Shedding happens when short fibers loosen or stick out, but alpaca fibers are longer, helping them stay in place. Higher-quality alpaca wool sheds even less due to its finer, smoother fibers.

Generally speaking, it is an undesired trait for woolen items to be shedding. Preferably, you wouldn’t leave any traces of your clothes when you wear them, right?! So, let’s have a further look at the fuzzy world of shedding. 

Why Do Woolen Garments Shed? 

Shedding occurs when fibers fall out of a woolen garment. This happens when hairs break free from the yarn or, in the case of carpets, when fibers simply loosen and detach.

Let’s start with some Wool 101: wool is basically a bunch of animal hair that’s shorn, spun into yarn, and turned into cozy apparel and accessories.

As you’d expect, longer hairs cling together better than shorter ones—this plays a role in quality. But no matter how fancy the wool, shedding happens. With wear and movement, some fibers eventually wiggle free—it’s just part of the woolly life cycle.

When Do Wool Garments Shed? 

Nevertheless, there’s a bit more to it than just ‘that’s wool for you.’ Behind the scenes, factors like fiber length, processing methods, and even how you care for it all play a role in how much (or how little) your wool sheds.

1. Fiber Quality: The better the fiber, the less it sheds. Finer, smoother fibers stay put because they have fewer loose or broken ends.

2. Processing Method: Rough handling during processing (like heavy brushing or harsh chemicals) weakens fibers and leads to more shedding. Gentle processing keeps fibers stronger and more secure.

3. Fiber Diameter: Thicker fibers are more stubborn—they’re less flexible and more likely to snap and shed compared to finer ones.

4. Weave or Knit Density: Loose weaves and knits are like open doors for fibers to escape. Tighter, denser fabrics hold everything together better and shed less.

5. Fiber Type: Natural fibers (like wool and alpaca) shed more than synthetics because they lack the chemical treatments that keep artificial fibers locked in place.

6. Wear and Friction: High-traffic zones (like sleeves or underarms) create friction, which encourages fibers to work their way out. More rubbing = more shedding.

7. Garment Care: Rough washing and drying (especially with lots of agitation) can loosen fibers. Treat your wool gently, and it’ll stay in place longer.

8. Fiber Length Consistency: Mixed fiber lengths can cause more shedding—shorter fibers tend to wriggle free. Longer, more consistent fibers hold together better.

Fiber Length: What Does It Have to Do With Shedding?

Shedding is all about fiber length. The longer the fiber, the better it stays in place. Longer fibers are more securely interlocked, which means they’re less likely to fall out. This explains why different animals—and even different parts of an animal’s wool—can shed differently.

Alpaca Fiber Length

Alpaca wool generally has a minimum fiber length of 7 cm (about 2.8 inches) after growing for a year. Most producers consider this the minimum length for production (and thus, the ideal length.)

Here’s how the fiber lengths stack up:

As you can see, fiber length varies widely between animals and qualities of wool. Generally, longer fibers, like those from high-quality alpaca, shed less due to their stronger interlock. Shorter fibers, on the other hand, are more prone to loosening and shedding.

Fiber Texture: How Does It Apply to Shedding?

Now, let’s talk about fiber texture. Length isn’t the only factor at play—how the fiber feels and behaves also matters.

Alpaca wool has a unique texture that sets it apart from other fibers. It’s got tiny, almost invisible scales (you’d need a microscope to see them) that make the fiber feel incredibly soft and smooth.

This is why alpaca wool sheds less compared to other fibers. The smooth texture reduces friction, which means the fibers stay in place better. Even if the fibers move around, they slide right back into position without causing pilling, felting, or breaking.

Pretty magical, right? These tiny little scales are key to keeping the wool intact and reducing shedding over time.

Weave or Knit Density: How Tightness Prevents Shedding

The density of the weave or knit is another key player in how much wool sheds. Simply put, tighter weaves or knits hold the fibers in place better. Think of it like a security system for your wool—if the fibers are tightly packed, they’re less likely to escape.

When a woolen garment is loosely woven or knitted, the fibers don’t have as much structure to stay in place. This makes them more prone to moving around and shedding. On the other hand, a dense weave locks the fibers in, minimizing shedding and extending the life of the garment.

So, if you’re looking for a long-lasting, low-shedding wool garment, pay attention to the weave or knit. A tighter construction is your friend when it comes to keeping things intact.

How Do Manufacturers Produce High-Quality Wool?

To minimize shedding, wool producers play a huge role in the process. Here's how they ensure high-quality wool that sheds less:

• Sorting the Wool:

• No animal produces 100% uniform fibers, so wool must be sorted carefully.

• Shorter, coarser, or less desirable fibers are separated from the finer, longer, softer ones.

• This process requires a trained human eye and is time-consuming, but it’s crucial for quality.

• Spinning the Yarn:

• The tighter the yarn is spun, the better the fibers stick together.

• However, if spun too tightly, fibers can break or become weaker, which may cause shedding.

• Finding the right balance in spinning is key to maintaining strength without excess shedding.

• Washing the Wool:

• After spinning, wool is washed to remove loose fibers.

• This leaves behind a more uniform, smoother yarn that sheds less.

By carefully sorting, spinning, and washing the wool, producers ensure that high-quality wool sheds less and lasts longer, giving you a more durable and enjoyable product.

Tips and Tricks to Prevent or Solve Shedding

While shedding is a natural part of wool’s life cycle, there are a few tricks you can use to minimize it and keep your wool garments looking great for longer.

Quality Matters—Opt for High Quality

First, choose high-quality wool. Opt for fine wool types like alpaca or merino, which naturally shed less due to their smoother, longer fibers. The better the wool, the less likely it is to shed.

• Ready to experience the difference? Explore our collection of high-quality, low-shedding wool products made from the finest alpaca fibers. Shop now and enjoy garments that last longer and shed less!

Wash with TLC

When it comes to washing, always be gentle. Use cool water, a mild detergent, and either hand wash or use the delicate cycle on your washing machine. Hot water and rough agitation can loosen fibers, leading to more shedding. After washing, always air dry your wool garments by laying them flat. Avoid wringing or hanging them, as this can distort the fibers and cause more shedding.

• Curious About How to Wash Your Wool? Shedding and care are closely tied to how you wash your wool garments! If you’re unsure about the best practices, don’t worry—we’ve got you covered with our Step by Step Washing Guide. 

More TLC Does the Trick

Another great way to reduce shedding is by regular care. Gently comb or use a lint roller to remove any loose fibers that may fall off during wear. This will help prevent pilling and keep shedding to a minimum. And of course, avoid excessive friction—areas that rub constantly, like underarms and sleeves, tend to shed more.

Finally, proper storage is key. Store your wool garments in a cool, dry place, preferably in a breathable garment bag, to protect them from moths and pressure that can cause shedding.

Why Shedding Is Actually a Good Thing!

Let’s face it: complete shedding prevention isn’t really a thing.

And honestly, shedding can be a good thing! It’s like nature’s way of doing some spring cleaning. When fibers shed, it’s often the broken, brittle, or weak ones falling away—think of it as the wool’s version of natural selection.

The same goes for woolen products: shedding helps get rid of the weak fibers that could eventually cause pilling or felting. Or worse… ITCHINESS!

So, embrace it. Shedding is just part of the wool experience. But if you want to minimize it, go for high-quality alpaca wool, which sheds less and stays smooth for longer.