How to Care for Alpaca and Merino Socks

Luxury isn't just about how something feels the first time you wear it. It's about how it endures — and how you look after it.

At half british, we design our socks to last. With the right care, your alpaca socks and merino wool socks will stay soft, comfortable, and dependable for far longer. Here's how to make the most of them.

1. Wash with care

  • Machine wash cold or at 30°.
  • Use a gentle cycle with similar colours.
  • Turn socks inside out to reduce friction.
  • Use a wool-safe detergent — nothing harsh or enzyme-based.

2. Skip the tumble dryer

Heat is the enemy of natural fibres. Tumble drying can cause alpaca and merino to shrink and lose their shape. Instead, lay them flat or hang to dry at room temperature away from direct sunlight or radiators.

3. Store them properly

Fold rather than roll. Keep your socks in a dry drawer away from damp. If storing for a season, a breathable cotton bag works well — it protects against moths while letting the fibre breathe.

4. Handle pilling calmly

A little pilling on natural fibres is normal, especially in high-friction areas. It doesn't indicate poor quality — it's simply the shorter fibres working their way out. A fabric shaver used gently will restore the surface cleanly.

5. Don't over-wash

Alpaca is naturally antibacterial and odour-resistant. You don't need to wash after every single wear — airing them out between uses extends their life considerably.

Why it's worth the effort

Well-maintained natural fibre socks can last years longer than synthetic alternatives. The care routine is minimal once it becomes habit — and the difference in longevity is significant.


Worth caring for means worth buying well in the first place. Browse the full sock collection — the Alpaca Everyday Sock, the Alpaca Lounge Sock, and the Merino Wool Sock. Each pair is made to be kept, not replaced.

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