When you read for others, your decks are bound to become worn and beat – especially if you are a high volume reader like myself. Although some may feel that a well used deck has more power, I find that eventually, like any tool, the readings can become somewhat dull. (This is just the way I feel, by the way, and no means the final word on whether or not a deck is used up!)
Of course, any deck over a long period will acquire nicks and bends but here’s a few tips on caring for your tarot deck:
1. You may want to consider not allowing the questioner to shuffle the deck. Personally, I prefer that they DO – but if you decide to allow someone else to shuffle your deck, you have no control over how rough they will be. Recently, I acquired a beautiful deck that was made on rather thin card stock. An aggressive client shuffled those cards with such fury that she ended up destroying the deck. All it took was that one reading – and poof! They were no longer useful. Think carefully about this. If you are paranoid about a deck being trashed, then don’t allow anyone to touch it. Or get decks made on sturdy card stock!
2. Have a variety of decks handy so that you can switch off as often as you’d like. Think of this as rotating the tires on your car – it will give your decks a longer shelf life.
3. When not in use, keep the deck in a silk scarf or in a wooden box.
4. If you travel with your deck, I advise you to keep it in a nice silk bag. I have a lovely one that a dear client made for me years ago. It keeps my deck safe but also reminds me of her whenever I look at it!
What about a deck that has been completely ruined? You can either “retire it” – put it away in your collection or choose to give the deck to a person who may want it. The other option that I like is to put it in a paper bag with an orange cut in half and throw it away, far from your home. I learned this technique from an old magician who disposed of all of his magickal tools this way.
Always remember – your deck is the “window to your soul”. Caring for your tarot deck will preserve it for the long tarot haul. Treat it with respect! With a little care, they can last a long time and serve you well.
Blessings!
Theresa
www.thetarotlady.com
©The Tarot Lady | Theresa Reed
I’m Theresa Reed (aka, The Tarot Lady). I’ve been a full-time tarot reader for 30+ years — which, in my industry, makes me pretty badass.
I’m definitely not your average Tarot expert — I drop the F-bomb, I quote rappers, and I’m obsessed with pop culture + reality TV. Folks come to me for straight-talk + tough-love — without the woo-woo fluff. 
