If you’re reading this, I’m going to assume you already have a tarot deck (or two) and you’re quite rightly wondering how to look after it properly. This is something I’m asked all the time, so I’ve pulled together some of the most frequently asked questions and added a few of my own thoughts along the way.

Do I need to cleanse my cards?

Honestly? If the deck is brand new and still wrapped, I don’t think you need to cleanse it straight away. It’s untouched, straight from the publisher — unless of course it’s handmade or second-hand.

Once you start using your cards though, it’s a different story. You can cleanse them in several ways. One simple option is to waft incense smoke over the deck while holding it, or just lay it on a surface and let the smoke pass over. They won’t mind either way.

Personally, I prefer to keep a cleansing crystal in with the deck at all times. I use an amethyst tumblestone and a clear quartz point tucked into my pouch — they do the job beautifully, and it becomes part of the deck’s energetic signature.

Should I leave them in the box?

This is totally up to you, but I do recommend finding something protective. I always say every tarot deck deserves to be wrapped in silk or stored in a pouch — not only to keep your energy with the cards but to protect them from children’s fingers, pet paws, or worse… another person picking them up without asking.

Many readers love using wooden boxes or decorative tins. Some go all out with velvet-lined boxes, others keep things simple with a soft cloth. I tend to store unused decks in their original boxes, but the ones I read with regularly all live in plain velvet pouches, each with its own crystal.

I don’t personally cleanse with incense before every reading, mainly because incense is usually already burning in the room before I start — but if it feels right for you, go for it.

What kind of pouch or bag should I use?

Honestly? Whatever feels good. When I bought my first deck over thirty years ago, I rushed out to buy a black satin cloth, a chunk of quartz, and a wooden box. I loved it, but eventually realised I never wanted to keep opening and closing the box.

Back then, tarot pouches weren’t as common as they are now. These days, the variety is endless — pouches with artwork from your favourite deck, sewn silk bags with crystals stitched in, even handmade options with embroidery or printed sigils.

I keep my current working decks in plain velvet pouches, each a different colour (not that I always remember which is which). The key thing is to treat your cards with care and respect, and to protect their energy between uses.

And yes, in case you’re wondering, I may or may not include a black velvet pouch with every deck I send out. It does the job perfectly.

Can someone else shuffle my cards?

Absolutely. A lot of professional readers pass the cards to the person they’re reading for — it’s part of the ritual. That said, it’s no easy task to shuffle 78 cards if you’re not used to it. Cards all over the floor is quite common for first-timers.

Personally, I prefer to shuffle and then let the querent choose their cards from the pack. But you’ll find your own way. There are no strict rules here.

How long can I use the same deck?

Ah, the big one. Some professionals only use pristine decks and replace them regularly. Me? I’ve been using my Rider-Waite (or Waite-Smith) deck for over thirty years and it’s still going strong.

It’s a deeply personal choice. Many readers grow attached to certain decks — I still have my very first deck, the Arthurian Tarot, tucked away in a drawer. It retired a long time ago, but I could never throw it away.

Some readers like the energy of a fresh, crisp deck. Others prefer one that’s worn in like a favourite jumper. Trust your instincts.

Do I need a tarot cloth to read on?

In my opinion, yes — a tarot cloth really does matter. It’s more than just a pretty backdrop. It creates a clean, dedicated space for your reading, protects your cards from sticky surfaces, and helps hold the energy of the reading in one place.

Over the years, I’ve read on all sorts of surfaces — sofas, kitchen tables, even café counters — but I always feel more grounded when I lay out my tarot cloth. There’s something about setting the stage that makes the experience more intentional. 

I do sell them in the shop (they tend to disappear quickly, for good reason), but even a simple square of silk or velvet will do. Think of it as a way of showing respect for your tools — and creating a little sacred space wherever you happen to be.