How to Remove a CD Scratch Professionally

Clean your CD professionally.

When a laser inputs data onto CDs, it does not encode directly to the surface. Instead, it writes directly beneath the surface. Therefore CD scratches cause the laser to refract. Fix this problem by filling these scratches.

Things You'll Need

• Scratched CD
• Toothpaste
• Soft cloth
• Water-based window cleaner

Instructions

1. Wipe the CD from the center outward to remove dust particles. Brushing the CD in circles will only cause more scratches.

2. Squeeze out a tiny blob of toothpaste onto the scratched surface. Use reputable brands such as Colgate, Crest and Sensodyne for greater efficacy.

3. Use another piece of cloth and wipe the toothpaste from the center outward.

4. Polish the CD using petroleum-based and chamois cloth materials.

5. Using a water-based window cleaner, wipe the CD smoothly from the center outward.

Tips & Warnings

• You can also use metal polishers, peanut butter and commercial disc repair liquids to fix CD scratches.

• Using these techniques do not guarantee that the CD will be fixed completely. Performance will vary depending on the materials used to clean the CD.

References

• St. Lawrence University Information Technology: How to Heal a Scratched CD
• How to Clean Stuff: How to Fix a Scratched CD or DVD