How Do I Fix My CD?

If your CD is skipping or not playing properly due to scratches, you can often fix it using a common household item like petroleum jelly.

The primary method for fixing a scratched CD involves carefully applying a small amount of petroleum jelly. The goal is to fill in the minor scratches on the disc's surface, which helps restore its reflectivity and allows the laser in your CD player to read the data correctly.

Simple Method for Fixing Scratched CDs

Based on effective techniques, here's how to use petroleum jelly to potentially repair a scratched CD:

1. Gather Materials:

   • A soft, lint-free cloth (like a microfiber cloth)
   • Petroleum jelly
   • Clean water

2. Apply Petroleum Jelly:

   • Simply apply a small amount of petroleum jelly to a soft cloth.
   • Gently rub the cloth with the petroleum jelly into the scratch in a circular motion on the playable side of the CD (the shiny side, not the label side).
   • Continue rubbing gently until the scratch appears to be filled in by the jelly. The oils from the petroleum jelly will help to fill in the scratch and restore the disc's reflectivity.

3. Clean the Disc:

   • Make sure to rinse the disc thoroughly with water when you're done.
   • Gently wipe the excess petroleum jelly from the disc, working from the center outwards.
   • Dry the disc completely with a clean, soft cloth or let it air dry before attempting to play it.

This process works by temporarily filling the scratch with a substance that has a similar refractive index to the CD's polycarbonate layer, creating a smoother surface for the laser.

Quick Reference Table: Materials & Steps

Remember: This method is most effective for light scratches. Deep scratches that penetrate the data layer cannot typically be repaired this way. Always handle your CDs by the edges to prevent new scratches.