Playing Card Etiquette 101: Proper Handling and Care

Playing cards have facilitated fun and brought people together for countless generations. However, to keep your decks looking and handling their best - whether you’re playing go fish with the kids or gearing up for poker night with friends - it pays to follow playing card etiquette. We’ll review some top tips for properly handling and caring for your cards.

Avoid Bends and Creases

Repeatedly bending cards back and forth leads to visible creases as well as small cracks in the coating where dirt can collect. Try to handle cards as gently as possible, avoiding putting any unnecessary strain areas. Plastic cards like those from Copag are more flexible and resistant to damage. When possible, store and transport cards flat using a deck case.

Keep Hands Clean and Dry

Even clean-looking hands can transfer oils and dirt onto your cards - adding wear and making them harder to shuffle. Avoid eating messy snacks while handling a deck. Wash hands thoroughly or use hand sanitizer beforehand. You want cards sliding smoothly, not sticking together. Again plastic cards have an advantage here as they resist grime. If planning card games after dinner, have tableside hand wipes at the ready.

Use Card Cases

Leaving decks loose on tables or tossed in bags is a recipe for damages, bent corners and lost cards. Invest in quality rigid or soft cases that protect while also looking flashy. Art of Cards offers a wide array of deck cases and accessories. Cases also prevent exposure to spills, moisture and more. For extra protection during transport, place card cases inside sealable plastic bags.

Riffle & Bridge shuffle with Care

Aggressively riffle shuffling brand new cards can prematurely wear down finishing. Go slower and ease into it. Avoid bridge shuffling plastic cards as they’re slippery. For most games, a few gentle riffle or overhand shuffles suffice to randomize a deck. Minimize bending cards completely backwards, which weakens them at the center.

Use Play Mats

For card games frequently played on hard surfaces, use soft play mats. These cushion cards during shuffling, prevent scratches, and make it easier to deal and slide cards into place. Play mats also keep cards from accidentally falling off tables. High quality, brightly colored foldable play mats make any card table pop.

Store Properly Long-Term

For pristine card preservation over months or years, carefully place decks back into cases or sleeves and store somewhere climate controlled. Avoid attics, basements, or garages subject to temperature and moisture fluctuations. Excess handling of collectible cards decreases resale value exponentially. Wrap old decks in archival paper inside sealable plastic bags. Refrigeration can sometimes help restore vintage decks.

Take Proper Precautions

Carefully burning edges of plastic cards or lightly scuffing specific points on card backs were once ways players covertly marked decks. But marked cards are forbidden in sanctioned games. Any evidence of manipulation or modifications should disqualify a deck. Inspect new card packs and decks carefully. Report concerns to manufacturers like Art of Cards, who offer 100% plastic playing cards in India made to perfection.

With proper etiquette, from keeping hands clean to mindful shuffling, you’ll keep your cards looking and handling their best for years of fun. Investing in quality playing card accessories helps as well. What’s your top playing card care tip? Share below!