Deckburning

Deckburning refers to the practice of destroying or disposing of playing cards that are no longer desired or are damaged. This can include old, worn-out decks, decks with missing or damaged cards, or decks that are no longer used for gameplay. The method of destruction varies, but common approaches include burning, shredding, or simply discarding.

Historically, deckburning might have been a more common practice when cards were handcrafted or represented a significant investment. In modern times, with mass-produced playing cards, the act of burning a deck is often symbolic, representing a desire to move on from a particular game, a difficult period, or to signify the end of a cycle. It can also be a way to repurpose or dispose of cards that have been used in rituals or ceremonies.

Some players or collectors may choose to burn decks that have been "retired" from active play, perhaps after a significant event or a long period of use. The burning itself can be a private act or, in some communities, a shared ritual. It's important to note that when burning cards, safety precautions should be taken, such as ensuring proper ventilation and fire containment. Alternative disposal methods like shredding or recycling may be preferred for environmental reasons or to prevent accidental fires. The term "deckburning" is primarily associated with playing cards, but the concept of symbolically destroying or disposing of items no longer needed can be applied to other collections or personal effects.