How to Fix Scratched Game Discs: Cleaning, Repair Kits, Resurfacing & When to Replace

Scratches on the data side (bottom, shiny) cause read errors. Top (label) scratches are usually fatal — data layer is right under label.

Safe Cleaning (Try First)

1. Microfiber + Distilled Water: Wipe radially (center → edge), never circular. Dry with clean side.
2. Isopropyl Alcohol 90%+ (Optional): Dampen cloth, same radial wipe. Evaporates fast, no residue.
3. Commercial Disc Cleaner: Spray + microfiber (e.g., Maxell, Memorex). Follow instructions.

Scratch Repair (Surface Scratches Only)

• Toothpaste (Non-gel, White): Tiny abrasive. Radial rub 30s → rinse → dry. Mild improvement.
• Car Polish / Plastic Polish (Meguiar's, Novus #2): Better abrasive control. Radial buff.
• Disc Repair Machine (SkipDr, Disc-Go-Devil): Motorized radial buffing. Best for multiple discs. $20–$60.
• Professional Resurfacing: GameStop (some locations), local media stores, library — $2–$5/disc. Removes microns of polycarbonate.

What NOT to Do

• Circular wiping (creates concentric scratches = unreadable).
• Paper towels, tissues, shirts (abrasive fibers).
• Acetone, nail polish remover, Windex (dissolves polycarbonate / label).
• Deep gouges (feel with fingernail) — unrepairable.

When to Replace

• Label-side damage.
• Deep radial gouges.
• Cracks / delamination.
• After 2–3 repair attempts fail.

Digital backup (dump ISO via CFW/PC drive) preserves game legally if you own disc.