BROWSE HOW TOs

How to Fix a Scratch on a DVD

By eHow Electronics Editor

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Does one of your DVDs refuse to play in your DVD player? Deep scratches on DVDs aren't always repairable; but smaller scratches can be fixed a number of ways so you can save the money from having to purchase a new DVD. Follow these steps to fix a scratch on a DVD.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

Soft cloth with soap
Disc refinisher

Step1

Make sure that the problem isn’t as simple as a dirty disc. Even a piece of hair or some dust can make a CD or DVD unreadable. Clean the disc with a soft cloth to remove any debris that could be causing the disc to fail.

Step2

Examine the disc visually. See if you can identify the scratch or scuff that needs to be fixed. If the scratch is one that goes up and down from the center of the disc toward the rim, it can probably be fixed. Scratches that run along the disc itself are much more damaging and difficult to repair.

Step3

Clean the disc using toothpaste. Many people have done this and it does work. The idea is to get some of the excess plastic out of the way to make the scratches less severe. Be careful that you don't damage the disc more! Toothpaste can be abrasive.

Step4

Consider borrowing or purchasing a CD refinisher if the problem continues. Disc repairers like Disc Doctor can do wonders for scratched DVDs. Follow the instructions for the disc refinisher that you choose to repair the scratches. You may need to use the refinisher more than once.

Step5

Try waxing the disc when all else fails. Vaseline works nicely, but it's a temporary solution. Go to a computer and make a copy of the disc if you use this method to get it working again.

Tips & Warnings

Sometimes a DVD simply gets too scratched. There are some scratches that just can’t be fixed.
Most electronics stores will help you with a scratched disc free of charge.
Only use soft materials to clean discs. Never use something like a rough towel or kitchen napkin.