Clean your CD to make sure that it is not simple dust or household dirt that is preventing your CD from playing properly. Dampen a lint-free cloth and gently but firmly wipe the CD from the center down to the outer edge. Microfiber cloths work well, as does the sleeve of a cotton T-shirt. Make sure that you only wipe down in a straight line and not in a circular or up and down motion, which will likely cause additional damage to the disc.
Hold the CD up to the light to locate the surface scratches. Turn the CD at different angles until you can view all areas of the disc completely. Make a note of where the scratches are so you can focus on that particular area during cleaning and polishing.
Toothpaste, peanut butter and metal polish are simple home ingredients that can be used to eliminate scratches from CDs. When using toothpaste, make sure it is plain white toothpaste, not gel, and that it does not contain any abrasive materials. When using peanut butter, use only creamy and keep in mind that the more oily it is, the better it will work.
Place a dab of your chosen cleanser onto a clean, lint-free cloth. Place the cleanser at the center of the CD and gently buff the CD down in a straight line to the edge of the disc. For stubborn scratches, apply the toothpaste or peanut butter and allow it to sit on the CD for 15 minutes before buffing it. Rinse the CD in lukewarm water to remove the cleanser. Finish by spritzing the CD with some window cleaner and wiping it dry with a lint-free cloth.