Cleaning Sticky or Scratched CDs and DVDs - How to Clean your CD's or DVD's

After the hard drive of the computer, a CD or DVD is the next thing in which we store most of our data, be it music files, photos, work-related files, and so on. If hard drive has the risk of being corrupted by a virus, CDs and DVDs run the risk of getting sticky, scratched or otherwise damaged. If you are facing the latter problem, there is no need to panic. Most of the times, it is very much possible to remove the dirt, dust or scratches on the CD or DVD at home itself. In the following lines, we have provided complete information on how to clean your CD's or DVD's.

Cleaning Sticky or Scratched CDs and DVDs

Hold the CD/DVD in your hand and run warm water over it. This will help in removing any dust or dirt from it.
In case of stubborn or sticky dirt or grease, rub your finger over the CD/DVD, while running water over it. Make sure to do it gently.
Dilute a gentle detergent or liquid soap in water. Take an anti-static cloth, dip it a little in the solution and wipe the CD/DVD with it. Make sure to move from the center of the CD/DVD and go towards the edge.
Shake off the water from the CD/DVD and let it air-dry. Please do not dry it with a towel or in the sun.

Polishing the CD/DVD

If your CD/DVD still does not play well, it probably needs polishing. Follow the steps given below, in this case.

Take your routine toothpaste (not gel) and apply a small amount of it on a lint-free cloth.
Rub the cloth over the CD/DVD very gently, moving from the center of the CD/DVD and going towards the edge.
Repeat the procedure atleast 10-12 times. If possible, try to concentrate rubbing on the areas where you can see the scratches on the CD/DVD.
After you are satisfied that the scratches have been considerably removed, remove the toothpaste from the CD/DVD by rinsing it in warm water.
Shake off the water from the CD/DVD and let it air-dry. Please do not dry it with a towel or in the sun.

Last Resort - Professional Help

If your CD/DVD is still not playing well, it is the time to try the last option - professional help. Take it to the music store nearest from your place and let a professional handle the cleaning work.

Some Tips

While cleaning a CD/DVD, always make sure to hold it by the edges and the center hole.
Never ever apply too much pressure while cleaning or polishing a CD/DVD. It might make the matters worse.

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Cleaning Sticky or Scratched CDs

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