How to Erase CDs

Compact discs can't be erased the same way as hard drives or floppy disks. You can only erase CDs that are rewritable, which are called CDRWs. Even CDRWs have a certain process that needs to be followed to properly erase the CD and make it usable again. The process depends on if you formatted the CD with software of if you just used it raw. Either way will allow for simple erasing.

Instructions

1. Back up your files from the disc. When erasing files on a CD it is all or nothing, so copy the files from the CD to a folder on your hard drive. Just select all of the files and copy and then paste in your destination folder.

2. Attempt to delete by using Windows. Go into "My Computer" and right click on the CDROM. Choose "open" and go to the CD Writing Tasks pane. Select "erase this CDRW." This will take you through a wizard that will delete the CD.

3. Check CD programs. If this didn't delete your files it is likely because it is not a CDRW or because the files were saved using a proprietary program. Try opening the disk using any CD programs you have. Certain programs will let you save to the CDRW and let you erase single files on the fly, but they can only be deleted by the program. One program that does this is called Direct CD.