This wikiHow teaches you how to remove dust, dirt, and residue from DVD discs. The easiest way to do this is to use rubbing alcohol and a microfiber cloth, although you can use other cleaning methods as well. Remember, cleaning a DVD won't fix scratches. This action is only useful for removing dust and smudges that block the DVD player's laser from reading DVDs.
Step
Step 1. Place the DVD label portion on a soft cloth
You can use any cloth, such as a tablecloth, washcloth, or pillow as long as the label is facing down and the dirty side of the DVD is facing up.
Step 2. Prepare the equipment
Some of the items needed to clean a DVD include:
- Isopropyl alcohol - Works as a cleanser. You can also use toothpaste, but be careful with most other cleaners as some contain solvents that can damage DVD discs.
- Water - This is used to rinse the DVD after you clean it.
- Microfiber cloth - This is used to wipe and dry DVD discs. Do not use washcloths or paper products because they can scratch the surface of the DVD.
Step 3. Check the surface of the DVD
If there is a layer of dust and residue on the surface, you will need to do a thorough cleaning. However, if there is only a small amount of dust in a certain area, all you need to do is rinse and dry it.
Skip to the "Rinse DVD disc" step if you only want to rinse and dry the DVD
Step 4. Drop some rubbing alcohol on the surface of the DVD
If the alcohol container provides a means for spraying it in a "mist" form, spray the entire surface of the DVD disc. If it's not there, drip some rubbing alcohol on it.
If using toothpaste, place a few dots of paste around the surface of the DVD, then spread it evenly so that it covers the entire surface of the disc
Step 5. Gently wipe the alcohol stuck to the DVD in a straight motion
With a microfiber cloth, wipe the alcohol from the center of the disc outwards. Make sure you do it in a straight line. This is so that the entire surface of the disc is coated with alcohol. So, add more if necessary.
If using toothpaste, rinse the paste with water
Step 6. Rinse the DVD disc
Run cool water over the DVD surface to remove dust, residue, and fabric debris.
Step 7. Dry the DVD
Ideally, you should place the DVD in an upright position or rest the label on a soft object (such as a roll of tissue) to allow the disc to dry without wiping it with a cloth. However, if you are in a hurry, dry the DVD by wiping it with a microfiber cloth in a straight motion.
Step 8. Test your DVD
Insert a dry DVD into the DVD player to see if it will work or not.
If the DVD still won't work properly, you may need to take it to a professional repair service. This kind of service can be found at a computer shop or service in your area
Tips
Cool water does not damage the DVD. Be careful not to use hot or very cold water to clean the DVD
Warning
- Any cleaning method will not be able to repair holes or scratches on DVD discs.
- Do not use solvent based cleaners as they can permanently damage the surface of the DVD/CD.
