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List of Everyday Chemicals Around the House That Make Scratched CDs Work Better

A scratch on a CD doesn't mean that it should be relegated to the trash heap. Most CDs have a data layer covered by 10 to 14 clear acrylic protective layers. A scratch on the CD usually doesn't reach the data layer, so buffing out the layers that are scratched will remove the scratch without ruining the disk. There are several common household items that can be used as abrasive buffing agents.

Things You'll Need

  • Nongel toothpaste
  • Buffing cloth
  • Liquid dish detergent
  • Baking soda
  • 2,500-grit sandpaper
  • Auto wax
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Instructions

    • 1

      Place a dab of nongel toothpaste on your index finger and rub it in a circular motion over the area of the scratch on the disc. Apply consistent pressure as you rub so the area around the scratch is ground down to a level at or below that of the scratch.

    • 2

      Rinse the disk in warm water to remove the toothpaste and any debris. Buff the disk with a buffing cloth to dry. If your disk doesn't work after this treatment, move on to the next product.

    • 3

      Run the disk under warm water for one minute, and then cover the scratched area with liquid dish detergent. Rub the area gently with your finger in a circular motion for about a minute.

    • 4

      Rinse the disk in warm water and buff it dry. Try the disk again. If it still doesn't work, move on to the next step.

    • 5

      Wet the disk down in warm water and cover the scratched area with baking soda. Again, rub it in a circular motion. The grit in the baking soda is bigger than that in either the toothpaste or dish detergent, so it should grind away more of the acrylic coating.

    • 6

      Rinse the disk in warm water and buff it dry. If the disk still doesn't work, move on to the next step.

    • 7

      Rub the scratched area of the disk with 2,500-grit sandpaper. Instead of rubbing in a circular motion, you will need to follow the contour of the disk and try to keep a curved motion. You don't want to create new scratches.

    • 8

      Wipe off the disk with a buffing cloth and then apply a coat of automotive wax to fill in the scratched surface. Buff the surface again with the buffing cloth.

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