Care Guide
Luxury begins with simplicity — even in how you care for your fibres.
At half british™, we work exclusively with world-class natural fibres. With the right care, your socks will remain soft, warm, and beautifully structured season after season. Below you’ll find considered guidance tailored to each fibre.
Alpaca Wool Care
Light, breathable and naturally refined.
Alpaca is one of the world’s most exceptional fibres — prized for its softness, warmth and comfort. As a natural fibre, it benefits from a slightly more considered approach to care.
How to Wash
- Hand washing is strongly recommended to preserve the integrity of the fibre
- Use cool water with a gentle, wool-safe detergent
- If using a machine, wash only on a cold wool cycle (30°C maximum)
- Place socks inside a protective mesh bag
- Wash separately or with very lightweight garments only
Avoid
- Heat of any kind
- Standard detergents
- Mixing with heavier items
How to Dry
- Gently press out excess water — do not wring
- Reshape whilst damp
- Lay flat to dry, away from direct heat or sunlight
- Never tumble dry
How to Store
- Fold and keep in a cool, dry drawer
- For long-term storage, use a breathable cotton bag
A note on pilling
Pilling is a natural characteristic of premium fibres and reflects the softness of alpaca. It can be easily removed with a fabric comb and does not affect the longevity of the product.
Important
As a natural fibre, alpaca can shrink if exposed to heat, friction, or incorrect washing conditions. Following the care guidance is essential to preserve fit and feel over time.
British Merino Wool Care
Fine-gauge, breathable and naturally refined.
Merino wool is valued for its softness and performance — warm without bulk, breathable while maintaining its structure. Though more resilient than other natural fibres, it still benefits from careful handling.
How to Wash
- Hand washing is recommended for best results
- Alternatively, use a cold wool cycle (30°C maximum)
- Use a gentle, wool-safe detergent
- Wash with similar lightweight garments only
Avoid
- High temperatures or fluctuating heat
- Standard detergents
- Heavy loads that create excess friction
How to Dry
- Press out water gently — avoid twisting or wringing
- Reshape whilst damp
- Lay flat to dry away from direct heat
- Do not tumble dry
How to Store
- Fold, never hang, to preserve elasticity
- Store in a cool, dry drawer
- For longer storage, use a breathable pouch to protect from moths
A note on resilience
Merino’s natural crimp allows it to recover its shape beautifully. With considered care, it remains smooth, soft and long-lasting.
Important
While more resilient, merino wool can still shrink or lose shape if exposed to heat or improper washing. Gentle care ensures lasting performance.
Cashmere Care
Exceptionally soft, delicate and quietly luxurious.
Cashmere is one of the finest natural fibres in the world — prized for its unmatched softness and lightness. Its delicacy requires a more attentive approach to maintain its beauty over time.
How to Wash
- Hand washing is strongly recommended
- Use cool water and a specialised wool or cashmere detergent
- If using a machine, only wash on a cold wool cycle (30°C maximum)
- Place inside a protective mesh bag
- Wash separately or with equally delicate garments
Avoid
- Any form of heat
- Standard detergents
- Friction from heavier fabrics
How to Dry
- Gently press out water — never wring
- Reshape carefully whilst damp
- Lay flat on a towel to dry, away from heat or sunlight
- Never tumble dry
How to Store
- Fold carefully — do not hang
- Store in a cool, dry place
- For long-term storage, use a breathable cotton pouch
A note on pilling
Due to its softness, cashmere may naturally develop pilling with wear. This can be gently removed with a fabric comb and is part of the fibre’s character.
Important
Cashmere is highly sensitive to heat and agitation. Improper care may lead to shrinkage or distortion — gentle handling is essential.