How do you clean a compact disc?

Clean a compact disc by using warm water and a small amount of dish soap followed by a rinse with fresh water and some time to air dry. Do not use paper towels or other cloths on CDs so that the disc does not end up scratched.

Cleaning CDs regularly helps to keep dirt and dust from building up on the surface and contributing to scratches.

Step 1: Wet the CD

Rinse the compact disc under warm water. Avoid extremes in temperature.

Step 2: Add soap

Add 1 to 2 drops of regular dish soap to the surface of the CD. Avoid using too much soap, since that makes rinsing the disc clean take longer than it needs to.

Step 3: Remove dirt

Gently move the soapy water on the disc to remove dirt and other grime. Be careful not to use circular motions since this can cause dirt particles to scratch the disc's surface. Instead use one finger to move the soapy water from the center of the disc to the edge in a straight line. Continue until the entire surface of the disc is clean.

Step 4: Rinse the CD

Rinse the soapy water from the CD with fresh warm water. Continue to avoid extremes in temperature with the water.

Step 5: Allow the CD to dry

Do not dry the disc with a cloth or paper towel since that can cause scratches. Instead, shake the extra water off the CD and allow it to air dry on a counter.