Discarding is one of the most important strategic decisions in cribbage. Every hand, you must choose two cards to discard into the crib — and that choice can help you or your opponent as much as it helps your hand.
This guide explains cribbage discard strategy, with clear advice for beginners and practical examples you can use immediately.
If you’re still learning the rules, start here first:
Why Discarding Matters So Much
Your discard affects two things at once:
- The strength of your hand
- The value of the crib
Because the crib is scored only by the dealer, discard strategy changes depending on whether you are the dealer or not.
👉 Learn how the crib works: What Is the Crib in Cribbage?
Discard Strategy as the Dealer
When you are the dealer, the crib is yours. This gives you more freedom to discard aggressively.
As the dealer, you can:
- Feed your crib safely
- Discard cards that create fifteens or pairs
- Aim for flexible hands that score well with many starter cards
Best Cards to Discard to Your Own Crib
These cards often improve the crib:
- 5s (very strong)
- Pairs
- Connected cards (like 6–7 or 9–10)
- Two cards totaling 15
Discarding value into your crib is often worth sacrificing a few hand points.
👉 See why 5s are powerful: Cribbage Scoring Explained
Dealer Example
Hand: 5♣, 6♦, 7♠, 9♥, K♣, A♦
Good dealer discard:
- 6♦ + 9♥ (15)
- Keeps a flexible hand
- Feeds a strong crib
Discard Strategy as the Non-Dealer
When you are not the dealer, your opponent scores the crib — so your goal changes.
As the non-dealer, your priorities are:
- Protect your hand
- Avoid feeding the crib
- Discard defensively
This is often harder, but more important.
Cards to Avoid Giving Your Opponent
As a general rule, avoid discarding:
- 5s
- Pairs
- Connected cards
- Two cards that total 15
Even weak-looking cards can become dangerous in the crib.
Safer Discards (When Possible)
These are usually safer:
- Unconnected high cards (K–Q, Q–J)
- Cards with poor run potential
- Cards that don’t combine to 15 easily
No discard is perfectly safe, but some are far less risky.
Balancing Hand Strength vs Crib Risk
Sometimes you must choose between:
- A stronger hand
- A safer discard
When not the dealer, defensive discarding usually wins over chasing a big hand.
👉 See high-value hands: Best Cribbage Hands
Starter Card Awareness
Before discarding, consider how many starter cards help your hand.
Good hands:
- Score with many different starters
- Don’t rely on a single card
Risky hands:
- Depend heavily on one starter
- Collapse if it doesn’t appear
Consistency beats peak potential.
Discards and Pegging
Discard decisions also affect pegging.
Try to keep:
- Low cards for flexibility
- Cards that control the count
Avoid hands that force you to:
- Lead with 5s
- Play only high cards early
👉 Pegging fundamentals: Cribbage Pegging Rules
Common Beginner Discard Mistakes
Beginners often:
- Discard 5s to the opponent’s crib
- Feed connected cards without realizing it
- Chase big hands when not the dealer
- Ignore pegging consequences
👉 Full list: Common Cribbage Mistakes
Simple Discard Rules to Remember
If you remember nothing else:
- Dealer: Feed your crib
- Non-dealer: Starve the crib
- Avoid 5s unless you own the crib
- Aim for consistent hands, not miracle hands
👉 Beginner overview: Cribbage Strategy for Beginners
Practice Discard Strategy
Discard skill improves fastest with repetition and review.
👉 Practice online: Play Cribbage Online
👉 App options: Best Cribbage Apps
Quick Reference
Want a one-page reminder?
Frequently Asked Questions
Unsure whether a discard was good or bad?