Santa really delivered this Christmas. My daughter’s DVD wish list was filled, save for her very last minute addition of “Home Alone,” which Santa hinted she might receive as an Epiphany gift.
The influx of new CDs and DVDs prompted me to sort through our existing collection. I tossed a few, donated others and cleaned the rest. Yes, I actually clean discs. Not as a part of my regular cleaning routine, but I notice that dirt and scratches can interfere with a disc’s ability to play, so I try to clean them every so often.
If you are looking for ways to extend the life of your favorite discs or at least ensure decent play back, then consider these simple cleaning tips:
1. Gently wipe each disc with a lint free towel.
2. Rub from the center hole and work outward.
3. If the disc is heavily soiled, dampen a clean soft cloth with a little water and wipe from inside out or dampen a lint free cloth with a small amount of rubbing alcohol and wipe disc.
4. Purchase a disc cleaning kit from the store.
5. Never wipe the disc in a circular motion, as doing so can scratch the disc.
6. Never use hydrogen peroxide to clean your disc. Its abrasive properties may damage your disc.
7. Never use baking soda, metal cleaners, or abrasive pads to clean your discs.
8. Never clean your CD or DVD player with a head cleaning kit.
By properly storing, handling and transporting your discs you can reduce the amount of cleaning involved. Always remember to store each disc in a protective sleeve. Also, hold the disc by the rim only and do not touch the playing surface with your fingertips. Finally, do not stack discs on top of each other and leave them in a hot car, as this can warp the discs and render them impossible to play.