How to Fix CD Scratches at Home

Scratched CDs can be annoying.

Scratches in a CD can be annoying. The skipping in only one song due to a scratch can ruin the entire CD. In more extreme cases, scratches can render the CD unusable. Though scratches can be a problem, there is a way to fix them that can be done at home and save the trouble of getting a new CD.

Things You'll Need

• Soft, clean lint-free cloths
• Non-gel toothpaste (preferably baking soda)

Instructions

1. Use a soft cloth to remove dust. Sometimes the reason for skipping is actually dust interfering with the CD player. Remove any dust and check the CD under a strong light to see if there really are scratches; some may not be easily seen.

2. Rinse the CD with warm water to remove any remaining dirt or dust. Shake the water off and let the CD air-dry.

3. Add a small amount of the toothpaste to a clean, soft, lint-free cloth. Gently rub the cloth on the CD starting from the center of the CD and out to the edge, like the spokes on a wheel. Go all around the CD 10 or more times. Don't rub in a circular motion; it can cause small scratches. Be sure not to press too hard or it will damage the CD further.

4. Rinse the CD with warm water. Shake the excess water off and let it air-dry. Check the CD by playing it.

5. Repeat the process if the CD still skips.

Tips & Warnings

• A baking soda toothpaste may work best.

• Avoid Brasso. Though many web sources claim that Brasso is a great product to use on scratches, the newer version of Brasso has slightly different compounds and will damage CDs.

• Do not use a gel toothpaste.

References

• Fixing Scratched CDs
• CD, DVD, PlayStation and Xbox Disc Repair