Optical Discs- (Part 3 of 3)
Let's start with the basics of handling and caring for optical discs. Most of these are common sense but it never hurts to mention them as reminders. Optical discs should be handled by the outer edge or through the center hole. Discs should not be bent or flexed and only write on the clear hub of the disc and use a water based felt-tip permanent marker.
Always keep discs that are not being used in a jewel case or some type of sleeve (paper or plastic). Jewel cases are the preferred method for storage because they are supported at the hub. Never stack discs so that they are touching each other to prevent scratches and to prevent warping due to excess weight. Also store jewel cases vertically (like a book) instead of horizontally which leads to unwanted stacking of CD's.
Lastly if a disc is dirty, dusty or smudged with fingerprints you may be able to clean it before it is permanently damaged. With dust, use a non-abrasive photographic lens tissue, or very soft brush. Fingerprints can possibly be removed by using a DVD/CD cleaning agent or isopropyl alcohol. Use only small quantities and make sure the cleaning motion is from the center of the disc outwards to the edge.