Can You Fix Scratched Xbox 360 Discs with Household Items?

If your Xbox 360 game disc is scratched, you may be able to fix it using some common household items. However, the success of these methods depends on the severity and location of the scratch. Here’s what you need to know:

Identifying the Type of Scratch

There are two types of scratches that can occur on a disc:

Scratches on the top, shiny part of the disc: These are usually caused by mishandling or improper storage. Unfortunately, if the scratch is deep enough to reach the data layer, the disc is not repairable, and all the data is lost.
Scratches on the bottom, plastic part of the disc: These are less common and may be repairable if the scratch is not too deep. The data layer is protected by a thin layer of plastic, so a shallow scratch may not have reached the data yet.

Fixing Scratches with Household Items

If the scratch is on the bottom, plastic part of the disc and is not too deep, you may be able to fix it using one of these methods:

Toothpaste: Apply a small amount of plain, white toothpaste to the scratched area and buff it in with a cotton swab using small, circular motions. Rinse the disc and dry it with a microfiber cloth
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Lip balm: Apply a small amount of lip balm or petroleum jelly to the scratched area and buff it in with a cotton swab. Rinse and dry the disc.
Lamp: Hold the disc a few inches away from a 60-watt light bulb, rotating it constantly. The heat from the bulb will melt the top layer of plastic, filling in the scratch. Be careful not to hold the disc too close or for too long, as this can damage the disc further.

If none of these methods work, or if the scratch is too deep, your best option may be to purchase a replacement disc or a digital copy of the game.