How Often Should You Cleanse Your Crystals?

If you’ve just started exploring the world of crystals, you’ve probably already come across the term “cleansing”, and maybe wondered how often you really need to do it.

This is one of the most common questions I get from beginners, and it’s an important one because cleansing is how we keep our crystals energetically fresh, working at their best, and ready to support us. Think of it like giving your favourite mug a wash before making a new cup of tea.

Why Do Crystals Need Cleansing?

Crystals are like little energy sponges. As they support us, they can absorb not only our energy but also the energy of the spaces and people around us. Over time, this can leave them feeling a little heavy, dull, or “off” and cleansing them helps to reset them back to their natural, vibrant state.

When to Cleanse Your Crystals

Here’s a simple starting point:

When you first get them – Whether you’ve bought a crystal from a shop, received one as a gift, or found it on your travels, give it a cleanse before you start working with it. This clears away any lingering energies from its journey to you.
After intense use – If you’ve been working with a crystal during a particularly emotional time, in healing sessions, or for protection, it’s a good idea to cleanse it afterwards.
When they feel “different” – If a crystal feels heavy, looks duller than usual, or just doesn’t seem to have the same spark, it’s probably time for a refresh.
Regular maintenance – Even if you haven’t been using them much, giving them a light cleanse every couple of weeks (or monthly) keeps them ready to work with you.

Trust Your Intuition

While these guidelines are a great starting point, there’s no one-size-fits-all schedule. The more time you spend with your crystals, the more you’ll notice subtle changes in their feel and appearance, and when you do, this is your cue to cleanse them.

Some crystals might ask for weekly attention, while others are fine with a monthly refresh. Let your relationship with each crystal guide you.

Easy Ways to Cleanse Your Crystals

For beginners, start with these simple methods:

Satin Spar (often called Selenite) – Place your crystals on a Satin Spar bowl or plate overnight for a gentle, no-fuss cleanse.
Incense or herbal smoke – Pass your crystals through the smoke of incense, palo santo, or dried herbs.
Sound cleansing – Use a singing bowl, bell, or even clapping to break up stagnant energy.
Moonlight – Leave your crystals on a windowsill overnight to recharge. You may see a lot of talk around doing this during a full moon, but you can actually do this any night that calls you. The moon doesn’t have to be full to do a crystal cleanse.

Making Cleansing Part of Your Rituals

If you enjoy adding a bit more pizzazz, you can tie your cleansing into moon phases, the changing seasons, or your own self-care rituals. I often combine my crystal cleanses with lighting incense in the evening or setting intentions at the new moon.

Cleansing your crystals doesn’t need to be complicated or time-consuming – what matters most is the intention you put into it and listening to your own sense of when a crystal needs some care. When in doubt, cleanse your crystals (and your energy) will thank you for it!

Love,