Learn
Altar care
An altar is a workplace. Dust it. Change the water. Do not treat it like a shelf of trophies.
Place
A stable surface, out of the walkway, away from pets that will knock it. High enough that children cannot pull a flame into a curtain. North-facing is traditional in some houses; a quiet corner you will actually tend is better than a perfect compass you ignore.
Daily
Fresh water. Trim or replace the candle. Speak one sentence, even if you are late and tired. That is the work. If the water clouds or evaporates fast, discard it outside, rinse the glass with salt, and pour again. Do not invent a drama around it.
Flowers and smoke
White blooms that have gone slimy are not an offering. Remove them. Copal or incense belongs only where the room can take smoke. Open a window.
Several colors on one shelf
Traditional keepers give La Niña Negra her own glass of water if she shares space with white. Do not mix every petition into one bowl and call it seven powers. See Aspects & Colors.
When you travel
Put the flame out. Cover the statue if dust or disrespect will reach it. She does not require you to burn the apartment down to prove faith. A petition on the wall can hold a name until you return.