How to Fix a Sticky Deck

How to Fix a Sticky Deck thumbnail
Mild soap can fix a sticky deck of cards.

A good game of poker calls for a crisp deck of cards. Over time and with use, playing cards pick up the natural oils in our fingertips, eventually causing a sticky and grimy surface. A sticky deck is impossible to shuffle and, thus, play with, but plastic playing cards are easy to clean.

Things You'll Need

  • Cold water
  • Mild soap
  • Clean, soft cloths
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Work with small batches of cards, focusing on five cards at a time.

    • 2

      Moisten a clean cloth with cold water, and add a small amount of mild soap to the cloth.

    • 3

      Gently rub both sides of one card with the soapy cloth.

    • 4

      Rinse the card under a small stream of cold water. You do not want to drench the card -- you simply want to rinse off any soapy residue.

    • 5

      Wipe both sides of the card with a clean, dry cloth.

    • 6

      Place the card on a clean, flat surface.

    • 7

      Continue cleaning the cards in the first small batch, laying each cleaned card on a flat surface.

    • 8

      Repeat this process in small batches until all of the cards are cleaned.

    • 9

      Let the cards dry for one hour, and then flip the cards over. Let the second side dry for another hour.

    • 10

      Allow the entire deck to dry thoroughly before using.

Tips & Warnings

  • Do not use warm water because it could warp the cards, rendering them unusable. Warped cards cannot be shuffled easily.

  • Always store your playing cards in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat or sunlight.

Related Searches:

References

  • Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images

Comments

Related Ads

Featured