How to identify a high-quality alpaca throw

Thinking about investing in an alpaca wool blanket? These luxurious throws are valued for their exceptional softness, warmth, and durability – but not all are created equal. Here’s how to confidently spot a high-quality alpaca blanket before you buy:

Examine the Fibre Content

Look for blankets labeled as 100% baby alpaca fibre or with an alpaca

content of at least 80%. Many so-called “alpaca” products use blends with synthetic materials or lower-grade wools, which reduce softness and quality. Always check the product description or tag. If you see “polyester,” “acrylic,” or the fibre content isn’t specified, this is a warning sign.

Assess the Texture

A superior alpaca blanket should feel silky and smooth as you run your fingers through it. It should never feel scratchy or stiff. If you can’t touch it, zoom on a product photo – you can see the quality with your naked eye! The best blankets use “baby alpaca” fibre—these ultra-fine strands offer the softest silkiest touch and are gentle even for sensitive skin. If the texture is rough, it’s likely a lower grade or blended product.

Check Weight

Alpaca wool is renowned for its ability to deliver exceptional warmth while remaining lightweight. A genuine alpaca blanket offers excellent insulation without the heaviness or bulk often associated with traditional blankets. That said, a heavier alpaca throw can impart a richer, more luxurious sensation. While most alpaca blankets on the market typically weigh between 350 and 450 grams, most of our designs are over 500grams, with some styles – like our knitted Qori blanket, weighing more than 1 kilogram. This added weight enhances the sumptuous feel and comfort of the throw.

Look for Ethical and Sustainable Sourcing

Genuine premium alpaca blankets originate from ethical sources. Look for mentions of fair trade, ethical farming, or sustainable practices when considering your purchase. Reputable producers take care to ensure their alpaca fibre is harvested humanely and the animals are well treated. Fair trade certification also means workers are paid fairly and work under appropriate conditions. By choosing ethically sourced alpaca products, you help promote responsible farming methods and protect the environment.

For eco-conscious customers, we’ve created our Pure and Eco range, which is particularly environmentally friendly. The baby alpaca yarn used in these products is undyed, conserving approximately 53 litres of water for every 1kg of fibre. This makes our throws gentler on both the skin and the environment. With alpacas naturally producing fleece in 22 distinct colours, their wool is not only unique but also more sustainable compared to other fibres.

Read Customer Reviews

Customer feedback is invaluable. Seek out verified reviews mentioning warmth, softness, and durability. Take note of common complaints—issues like shedding, roughness, or sloppy stitching might indicate lower quality. Positive remarks about comfort and craftsmanship are strong indicators of a good product.