The days of video and cassette tapes are
gone. DVDs are the main source for our movie entertainment now. What
happens when one gets dirty or scratched?
How to clean a DVD?
Well, first and foremost, try to keep it
from getting messed up in the first place. DVDs should always be stored
in their cases – the ones they came in. Never take them out
of the DVD player and leave them lying around.
Surprisingly, the dust
that accumulates can scratch the surface of the DVD and make it
unreadable. Returning the discs to their cases immediately after use
will eliminate this risk.
Environment is also important.
Don’t put DVDs in storage areas that are not climate
controlled. The attic and garage are not viable options! High heat will
warp your DVDs, and extreme cold may cause them to crack. Neither is a
desirable outcome, of course!
So what if a DVD has gotten dirty?
Here’s how to clean a DVD. If dust has collected on the
surface of the DVD, hold the disc in the center or by the edges. Never
touch the playable surface directly. Your body oils may damage the disc
badly.
Wipe the disc gently with a soft microfiber
cloth, from the
center of the disc to the rim. Never rub a CD in a circular motion.
Microfiber is gentler than even cotton and will trap small particles,
so when dry cleaning it, it is the best option.
If someone has touched the DVD, and you
notice fingerprints or smudges, the only wet cleanser you should use in
this case is rubbing alcohol. Put a slight amount on a soft cotton
cloth and rub gently.
If something has made the surface of the DVD
sticky or greasy, use a solution of baby shampoo and lukewarm water and
gently apply it with a soft cloth. Be sure that the CD is completely
dry before you store it back in its case.
When you decide the best method how to clean
a DVD, be very gentile. Even the light methods described here can
damage the disc irreparably if you’re not careful.