Your tarot deck is more than just a collection of cards—it’s a sacred tool for insight, intuition, and energetic connection. Over time, tarot decks can absorb energy from readings, environments, and even your mood. Cleansing your deck helps to release that residual energy and bring your cards back to a neutral, high-vibe state.
Whether you’re starting fresh with a new deck or refreshing your favorite one, here are 7 magical methods to cleanse your tarot cards:
Burning sage or palo santo is a traditional way to clear spiritual energy. Simply waft the smoke over and around your deck while setting the intention to remove any lingering energy that no longer serves. Be sure to do this in a well-ventilated space and with gratitude for the cleansing.
Place your tarot deck under the light of a full moon (or even a waxing moon) overnight. This gentle lunar energy will recharge and rebalance your deck. You can lay them out on a windowsill, covered porch, or altar space—just avoid dew or weather exposure!
Crystals like selenite, clear quartz, and black tourmaline are excellent for cleansing. Selenite, in particular, is known for its clearing properties. You can rest your deck on a selenite slab, place a crystal on top of the deck, or keep cleansing stones in your tarot pouch.
A quick and simple method—knock firmly three times on the top of your deck. This “wakes up” the cards and clears stagnant energy with intention. It’s perfect for on-the-go readers or quick resets between readings.
Use a bell, tuning fork, chime, or singing bowl to cleanse your cards with sound vibrations. Let the sound wash over your deck and reset its energy. This is particularly effective if you also use sound in your spiritual practice or meditations.
Salt is known for its purifying qualities. You can create a small circle of sea salt or Himalayan salt and place your deck in the center for a few hours. Just be cautious not to get salt directly on the cards, as moisture and texture can damage them.
Hold your deck in both hands, close your eyes, and imagine white or golden light flowing into the cards. As you breathe deeply, visualise the energy clearing and resetting. Set the intention that your deck is restored and aligned with your highest good.
For Crystals or smudge sticks you can order them from Amazon:
Selenite – Buy here.
Sage – Buy here.
Palo Santo – Buy here.
Clear Quartz – Buy here.
**Heads up, magical friend! Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you) if you click through and make a purchase. I only share products I truly love and use myself. **
Choose the method that resonates with you most. My go-to is knocking on the deck – its quick and easy. For an extra cleanse I use crystals and smudging. You don’t need to do them all—just one is enough to reset your deck’s energy and keep your readings clear and aligned. Cleansing your tarot deck is a beautiful act of ritual care and connection.
If you need some Tarot Deck recommendations read this.
If you need some Tarot resources to help you on your tarot journey please read this.