How to Clean CDs That Skip

Get your CDs playing like new again with these cleaning hacks

Co-authored by Hannah Madden

Last Updated: July 8, 2025 Tested

Trying to listen to a CD when it won’t stop skipping is super frustrating. Fortunately, if your CD has accumulated dust or grime over the years, there are a few simple ways you can clean it off. Clean your hands thoroughly before beginning. Use a microfiber cloth and swipe the CD from the center to the outside edge. If you need a deep clean, add a bit of isopropyl alcohol. For popular FAQs on cleaning a CD that skips, jump to more common questions.

Quick Guide to Cleaning a Skipping CD

Wash your hands with soap and water.
Wipe the back of the CD with a clean cloth to remove dust.
Add a few drops of dish soap to the back & wipe it clean with a damp paper towel.
Clean stubborn grime with a dab of isopropyl alcohol and a microfiber cloth.
Buff away scratches with a Magic Eraser.

1

Wash your hands with soap and water first.

Download Article

It’s surprisingly easy to transfer dirt and grime onto CDs. Make sure your hands are clean and dry before you start, and avoid touching the flat surface of the CD at all costs. As you handle your disc, be sure to always hold it by the side or with one finger through the hole in the middle.^{[1]
X
Research source}
- Try washing your hands with a grease-fighting dish soap to really remove all the grime from your fingers.

2

Wipe the surface with a clean cloth.

Download Article

Use a clean microfiber cloth to remove dust. Gently swipe the CD in a straight line from the center to the outside edge. Go around the whole CD in the same way, gently brushing from the middle toward the outside.^{[2]
X
Research source}
- Microfiber cloths are gentle, so they won’t scratch your CD like other towels might. If you don’t have a microfiber cloth, you can use a clean cotton towel instead.
- Try not to swipe the CD in a circular motion, as that can scratch the delicate surface of your disc.
- Make sure your cloth is clean and dust-free before you start.

3

Try dish soap and water.

Download Article

If your CD is still dirty, it might need a little extra work. Use a few drops of a gentle, grease-fighting dish soap if your CD won’t stop skipping. Keep wiping the CD from the center toward the outer edge, then wipe it down again using a clean towel wet with plain water.^{[3]
X
Research source}
- The dish soap will help remove any tough grime to really clean out the grooves of your CD.

4

Try isopropyl alcohol for a deep clean.

Download Article

If your CD is still skipping, try a harsher cleaner. Dab a bit of isopropyl alcohol onto a microfiber cloth and gently wipe your CD down with it. Always wipe from the center of the CD toward the outer edge to avoid scratching it. When you’re done, let your CD air dry.^{[4]
X
Research source}
- You can find isopropyl alcohol at most drugstores and home goods stores.

5

Use a Magic Eraser if the CD is scratched.

Download Article

If your CD is more than just dirty, try this method. Grab a Mr. Clean Magic Eraser, but don’t get it wet. Rub the surface of the disc from the inside toward the outer edge, pressing down as gently as you can. Since the surface of the Magic Eraser is mildly abrasive, it will buff out any light scratches in the disc’s surface.^{[5]
X
Research source}
- The key here is to go gently! Think of the Magic Eraser like a very fine sheet of sandpaper—if you press down too hard, you could end up shaving off something important.

6

Clean the CD drive if it’s dirty.

Download Article

Sometimes it’s the drive that’s the culprit, not the CD. Push the button to open up your CD tray, then turn your computer or stereo off. Grab a can of compressed air and aim the red nozzle into the slot that the CD drive came out of. Gently pull the trigger 2 to 3 times to blast out dust and grime.^{[6]
X
Research source}
- While some websites recommend taking the CD drive apart completely, it’s not wise to do this—you run the risk of damaging your CD drive further, and you could void your warranty if you still have one.

7

Store the CD in a protective case.

Download Article

It’s the best way to prevent dirt and grime. When you put your CD away, keep it in a plastic case away from the elements. This is especially important if you’re taking your CDs with you in the car or in a purse.^{[7]
X
Research source}
- Try buying a CD case to store all of your discs in one spot.

Common Questions: Proper CD Cleaning and Care

What causes CDs to skip when playing?

A CD may skip if it has a lot of dirt or scratches. Keeping your CD in a protective case and handling it properly is a good way to keep it in proper condition. It may also skip due to other issues, such as nearby objects causing vibrations near your CD player.

What's the best thing to clean CDs with?

Clean CDs with a simple microfiber cloth and, if needed, isopropyl alcohol. Avoid using heavy dirty cleaners, as this may damage the CD.

How do I protect a CD when not in use?

Use a properly fitted case to store your CD when it's not in use. Make sure to keep your CD away from direct sunlight and intense heat. The best way to store CDs is in a cool, dark place.

Reader Videos

Tips

Some websites recommend using food products like bananas or peanut butter to clean CDs; however, those methods will probably just make your CDs sticky.

Thanks
Helpful 5 Not Helpful 1