How to Remove scratches from a CD

Written By: Nick Jones

Comments: 7

Difficulty

Easy

Steps

Time Required

5 - 10 minutes

Introduction

This guide is for anyone who has a scratched CD that is not working any more. In most cases this relatively quick and easy method has worked for me, and hopefully it works for you too.

Tools

white toothpaste

Step 1

Identify any scratches.
Some scratches may be too deep to be removed. In this case, this method may not work.

Step 2

Take the CD to the sink.
Wash with lukewarm water to remove any dust or dirt.

Step 3

Let the CD air dry, or dry with towel.
Use a non-linen towel or your CD will need to be washed again.

Step 4

Take the toothpaste, and apply it to your index finger.
Rinse the toothpaste in lukewarm water and apply to the CD.
Rub toothpaste in a circular motion from the center to the outer edge.
Add multiple layers of toothpaste to cover all of the scratches.
Use a white toothpaste, not a gel. Gels containing little beads may cause more damage to the CD.

Unless I’m missing something, If you’re using toothpaste to polish the scratches out of a CD, there’s no need to let it sit with the paste on it. It’s the circular motion moving the aggregate in the paste that is removing the scratches.

Jimmy Hoffa - 30/06/18