Few things in life are more frustrating than sitting down to enjoy a DVD movie, getting to a key scene, and having your viewing experience interrupted by skips and freezes. Your first idea is probably to bring the disc back to the rental shop and ask for a replacement. However, there are tips you can use to probably save yourself some time and agony by repairing the disc yourself.
Repairing Scratched And Dirty DVDs
Skips and freezes are usually indicators of a dirty or scratched DVD. These problems can often be fixed by using ingredients you already have in your home. Make a note of approximately how much of the movie you've watched, and eject your disc. Check your disc for any blemishes under a light. Many rental shops won't bother inspecting discs after they're returned to the store, and you'll probably find fingerprints and smudges left carelessly by the previous user of the DVD. Find a microfiber cloth, or at least a soft paper towel, and dampen it with water. Wipe off any smudges on the underside of the disc, using a straight-line motion, from the inside of the disc to the edges. Using a circular motion can damage the data contained on the disc.
Try playing your disc again. If the problems persist, more aggressive methods might be necessary. Add a very small dab of toothpaste to your damp cloth, and repeat the process outlined above. The toothpaste is abrasive enough to remove minor scratches, but be careful: repeated uses of this technique will eventually wear through the disc's protective coating, permanently damaging the disc.
If one or two applications of this method don't work, you have a couple of options. First, head to your local electronics store and purchase a DVD/CD cleaning device. It shouldn't cost more than around 20 dollars as of 2009. Follow the instructions included with the device. This is a wise investment if you have a large collection of scratched DVDs and CDs. You'll get many uses out of your new machine. The "cleaning solution" included with the device is usually just mineral water. When the solution runs out, try using tap water, and your results should be similar to those obtained using the solution.
Repairing More Severely Damaged DVDs
As a last resort, you can bring a particularly damaged disc to a professional disc cleaning facility. Some rental shops own machines for this purpose, and will charge a small fee for their use. These machines will serve a similar purpose to the cleaning device you purchased, but will generally be more powerful and effective. If this method doesn't work, your disc is probably ruined, and replacing the disc will unfortunately be your only remaining option.
Tags: your disc, cleaning device, included with, included with device, rental shops
