Here are some basic facts about scratches on CD and DVD discs.
- The data is stored just under the label. Scratches on the label side are irreparable. Fortunately, most scratches happen on the shiny side, and there’s a millimeter of clear plastic between the surface and the data. These scratches can often be fixed.
- The data is arranged in concentric circles on the disc. Scratches that follow this pattern (often produced by defective CD or DVD players) are the worst kind. Perpendicular scratches are often harmless due to the redundant data stored on a CD or DVD.
- You should start with a clean CD before attempting to remove scratches. Use an electronics cleaner, isopropyl alcohol, or distilled water and a paper towel. Avoid following a circular pattern when you clean.
- Make sure your CD repair device is clean as well. One large particle in the wrong place can compound the damage rather than fixing it.
Household Solutions
A jewelry polishing cloth and brass cleaner can be used to take care of minor scratches. Toothpaste can also be used. Carefully squeeze some cleaner on the scratched dvd. Spread the cleaner from the center to the outside rim. Rinse off with a stream of cold good quality water. Dry with the polishing cloth and let it sit over night.
- Rub from the center out, not around the circle.
- Avoid following a circular pattern when you clean
Commercial Products
ALLSOP 58200 CD/DVD Scratch Repair System
avg price: $6.99
Memorex 08007 OptiFix Pro Clean/Repair Kit
avg price: $22.99
According to reviews, this product may scratch the disk further. It is known to scrach small circular patters into the disc.
Digital Innovations 10185 Disc Repair System
avg price: $29.99
Digital Innovations 10185 Skip Dr. Motorized AutoMax Scratch Repair System
avg price: $28.00
Philips CD Repair Kit - PH63012
avg price:
SkipDoctor Classic
avg price: $19.99
Rather than polish in circles, the Doctor's flywheel conforms to the CD surface and polishes in a perfect center-to-outside radial pattern.
Related Topics: Disk Data Recovery, Data Recovery From a Failing Hard Drive, CD/DVD Scratch Repair