Can You Fix a Scratched Game Disc? Here’s What to Try

If you’ve accidentally scratched your favorite game disc, don’t panic! While deep scratches can be difficult or impossible to repair, there are a few methods you can try to fix surface-level scratches and get your game working again.

Repairing Scratches with Petroleum Jelly

One of the most effective ways to fix a scratched disc is to use petroleum jelly, also known as Vaseline. Here’s how to do it:

Apply a small amount of petroleum jelly to a soft, lint-free cloth.
Gently rub the jelly into the scratch, following the inner perimeter of the disc.
Allow the jelly to sit for a few minutes, then wipe off any excess with a clean cloth.
The petroleum jelly helps fill in the scratch and can make the disc readable again.

Using Toothpaste to Fix Scratches

Another household item that can help repair scratched discs is toothpaste. Look for a non-gel toothpaste and follow these steps:

Dab a small amount of toothpaste onto a soft, lint-free cloth.
Gently rub the toothpaste into the scratch, using circular motions.
Let the toothpaste sit for a couple of minutes, then rinse the disc under cold water.
Dry the disc with a clean cloth or paper towel.

The abrasives in toothpaste can help smooth out surface scratches and make the disc readable again. However, this method is less effective than using petroleum jelly.

Keep in mind that any repairs to a scratched disc are usually temporary, and you’ll most likely have to replace the disc at some point. Deep scratches are impossible to fix, and attempting to repair them can cause further damage to the disc.

If you’ve tried these methods and your disc still won’t work, consider sending it to a professional disc repair service or renting or borrowing a replacement copy of the game.