Things You'll Need
Paper towel
Toothpaste
Lint-free cloth
Sponge
Water
Cloth
Many people use permanent markers to label CDs and DVDs. Although this seems like a good practice, removing the marker can be difficult if you make a mistake or want to record over the DVD content. If you need to remove the permanent ink from a DVD surface, you can do so using an item that every household has in the bathroom. This technique is effective and safer than using chemicals which can damage the DVD and make it unusable.
Step 1
Lay a paper towel on a flat surface and lay the DVD on top of it with the marker ink facing upward.
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Step 2
Apply 1 tsp. of a non-abrasive toothpaste directly to the permanent marker ink. To determine if the toothpaste is non-abrasive, place a small amount between your fingers and rub your fingers together. If it feels gritty, choose another toothpaste.
Step 3
Dip a soft, lint-free cloth or non-abrasive sponge into cold water and squeeze it out to remove as much of the excess moisture as possible.
Step 4
Rub the ink with the damp cloth or sponge to wipe it away. If the marker is on the label side of the DVD, you can scrub using any method. If the marker is on the data side of the DVD, use only clockwise circular motions so that you do not scratch the disc.
Step 5
Rinse the cloth or sponge in clean water and wipe the DVD to remove all traces of the toothpaste.
Step 6
Wipe the DVD with a dry cloth to remove all traces of water from it.
Tip
This cleaning technique has the added advantage of removing any scratches from the DVD as well as removing the permanent marker.
Gel toothpaste is ineffective at removing marker stains.
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