CARE + MAINTENANCE
HOW CAN I CARE FOR MY PRODUCTS?
For our naturally dyed textiles woven in Peru, we do not recommend using any sort of cleaning solvent. Dampen the stained area with cold water using a clean white cloth. Leave spot damp for 10-15 minutes and then gently blot with dry, white cloth from both sides to draw out the stain. For all of our other wools, we recommend using a wool-safe stain remover. If the stain persists, we recommend dry cleaning.
Our general rules are below. We generally suggest you err on the side of caution with caring for handmade goods.
Frazada Pillows + Throws - Dry clean only. Spot clean. Remove pillow insert. Using as a rug? See below...
Alpaca Pillows - Dry clean only. Spot clean. To re-fluff use a bristle brush and gently comb.
Alpaca Slippers- Spot Clean. Use soft bristle brush to clean debris stuck in fur and re fluff.
Baskets - Wipe clean with a damp and clean cloth. For more thorough cleaning, spray with hose to wet, clean with brush and mild dish soap, rinse with water. Reshape as necessary and let dry in gentle sun. Direct exposure to a heat source can damage fibers.
Indigo Ikat Pillows + Throws - Wash by hand in cool water or dry clean. Iron at an average temperature. Indigo textiles should not be used against light colored fabric as transfer can occur.
Straw Hats - Our hats will last a very long time with proper care. Always store away from direct heat or very dry areas in the winter. Do not get wet. Remove dirt with a dry soft brush. To reshape use a towel to cover area to be ironed. Gently steam the brim on a flat surface to reshape. Think gentle steam not water, hats are made from natural fiber and appreciate a gentle touch.
USING A FRAZADA AS A RUG?
Follow these two steps to ensure that your frazada rug has a long and healthy life!
1. Beat twice a month. Take your rug outside and beat with a broom or your hands to loosen up grit that can get deep within the fibers.
2. Flip every few months.
In the event that your rug gets a small stain, address immediately! We do not recommend using any sort of cleaning solvent. Dampen the stained area with cold water using a clean cloth. Leave spot damp for 10-15 minutes and then gently blot with dry, white cloth from both sides to draw out the stain. If the entire rug needs to be cleaned or it is a larger, deeper stain, bring the rug to a professional cleaner.
Wool is naturally water resistant. Dirt and mud will dry into a grit or dust and can simply be shaken out. If you try to remove mud or dirt while it is still wet, it may result in further staining.
LOOSE THREADS
In the occurrence of loose threads, which is considered normal with handwoven textiles, we recommend carefully pushing the thread back into the weave using a blunt, pointed instrument. If the thread is long and does not continue back into the weave of the rug, carefully trim with scissors. Take care not to cut any structural threads that could cause the rug to unravel. If in doubt, tie a small, secure knot as close to the rug as possible and cut off the excess thread.
STORAGE + PESTS
Pests can potentially be a problem with natural fibre rugs. The risk of damage occurring from pests is increased when the items are in storage, especially in dark, humid spaces with little or no air flow. To prevent damage from moths (which are the worst culprits) regularly inspect all sides of your products when it is in use and storage. In the unlikely event that you do have a problem with moths or other pests, treatments should only be applied by an experienced professional. The best prevention is to have the item in use in a room with good ventilation and filtered light.
Never store in plastic bags as this can cause discoloration over a period of time. Instead, keep in a clean and dry environment that is easily accessible for regular inspection and cleaning.