Home Remedies for Repairing Scratched DVDs

Scratches on DVDs can cause the discs to skip, freeze or not play at all. Proper care and handling of DVDs can help prevent scratches from occurring, but if a scratch does appear on a DVD, it is possible to repair at home. Using home remedies can save you time and money.

Baking Soda Toothpaste

Toothpaste works to remove scratches from DVDs; make sure to use a baking soda toothpaste, not a gel-based toothpaste. Apply a small amount of toothpaste to a soft clean cloth and rub on the scratch in a non-radial motion. Do not rub in a circular motion as that can cause minute scratches that can hinder the laser tracking system in the DVD reader. Rinse the disc with warm water and allow it to dry.

Metal Polish

Polishing a DVD with a metal polish can repair it as the polish removes some of the outer plastic coating, making any existing scratches shallower. Apply a small amount of the polish to a soft, lint-free cloth and gently rub on the scratched areas of the DVD. Wipe off excess polish and allow the rest to dry. When dry, use a new clean cloth to wipe the DVD, removing the polish completely. Caution: metal polish often emits fumes so use in a well-ventilated area.

Eye Glass Cleaner

Use eye glass cleaner to clean a scratched DVD and remove any light, superficial scratches the disc may have. Apply a small amount of cleaner onto a soft microfiber cloth and gently wipe the affected areas of the disc. When wiping, rub in a straight line starting at the center of the disc and move toward the outside edge.