Repair scratched CDs and DVDs - so it'll work
You can usually repair scratched CDs and DVDs yourself with little effort. We'll show you how it's done.
Analysis of the scratched CD / DVD
If the scratches are on the underside of the CD or DVD, the damage can be repaired in many cases. If the scratch is on the top of the data carrier and is slightly lower, the repair is much more difficult.
Repair damaged CDs and DVDs with toothpaste
If you treat the disk with toothpaste, a small part of the polycarbonate protective layer on the disk will be removed. The depth of the scratches and the resulting refraction of the laser is reduced.
- If possible, use a pure white toothpaste without colored additives, as these make the repair more difficult.
- Put some toothpaste on the underside of the CD / DVD and rub it with household paper. Always make circular movements.
- Then leave the toothpaste on for about a minute. Then wash the disk thoroughly with lukewarm water.
- Dry the CD / DVD again with a household paper. Wait for the disk to dry completely before inserting it back into the computer.
Professional repair of CDs and DVDs
If the toothpaste repair did not help, you can use professional tools:
- Most video stores have special cleaning machines with which they can treat damage more effectively. A repair will only cost you a few euros.
- You can also get yourself a repair kit like the PEARL PE-2944 for around 30 euros. These also polish your data carriers.
If the data carrier cannot be repaired, we will show you in another practical tip how you can save your data with a tool.