When it comes to managing your credit cards, the first priorities are likely things like paying your bills promptly, budgeting wisely, and keeping an eye on your credit score.
However, you might overlook the importance of maintaining the physical condition of your cards. Should you really be wiping them down with a microfiber cloth? Maybe. Does that seem a little excessive? Perhaps.
While we may not be overly meticulous with our cards, it’s still important to show appreciation for the points and rewards they provide. Here are some straightforward ways to care for your cards without going to extremes.
Consider a Metal Credit Card
For years, metal credit cards have been regarded as more of a status symbol than anything else. The first metal credit card was introduced by American Express in 1999: the Centurion Card, often referred to as the Black Card. This exclusive, invite-only card is reserved for a select group of elite users, with a notorious initiation fee of $10,000 — once you’ve received an invitation.
Fast forward over 20 years, and many are now using metal cards at checkout. From The Platinum Card® from American Express to the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card, there are numerous options available, so much so that we have an entire post dedicated to identifying the most robust metal cards.
No matter which one you choose, metal cards tend to be more durable than their plastic counterparts, which are prone to peeling and cracking.
The information about the Centurion Card has been independently compiled by The Points Guy. The specifics on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
Utilize a Mobile Wallet
Leveraging a mobile wallet can protect your cards from scratches and wear incurred from swiping or inserting chips. This keeps your card in top condition and makes accessing your card easier, especially from those tricky wallet slots.
Most banks offer their own mobile wallet options through their apps, or you can choose versatile services like Apple Pay or Samsung Pay, which can be synced to your phone without additional app installations.
Related: Will my rewards change if I pay with a mobile wallet?
Tap to Pay
Tap-to-pay options function similarly to mobile wallets, but they allow you to use your physical card instead. Check for the contactless payment symbol, which resembles a Wi-Fi icon, on the front or back of your card. If a merchant accepts contactless payments, you can simply tap your card to pay.
To identify if a store supports tap-to-pay, look for the corresponding symbol on their card reader or signage indicating acceptance. This feature can also work with mobile wallets.
Invest in a Quality Wallet
It’s essential to have a sturdy, clean, and secure wallet to organize your cards. If your wallet is worn or falling apart, it might be time to upgrade.
While credit cards can be replaced, it’s always better to prevent losing them in the first place.
Store Your Cards Properly
If you own multiple credit cards, you probably won’t carry all of them daily. It’s important to securely store any cards you don’t use regularly, keeping them away from heat, potential water damage, or curious pets — you definitely want to avoid melted cards left in the car or chewed-up cards from your furry friends.
Final Thoughts
If your credit cards are already looking worn out, peeling, or unreadable, it may be time to call the number on the back of your card (assuming you can read it) and request replacements as soon as possible. When you receive your new cards, remember to treat them with a little more care this time. After all, they help fund your adventures, though we still aren’t entirely convinced about the need for microfiber cleaning cloths.
Related: The best rewards cards
