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How to clean gunky CDs

Years ago Cd's in box sets used to be packed with foam inserts holding Cd's in place. I probably should have removed the inserts at that time because now I find that some of them have deteriorated to the point where they leave a sticky substance and bits of foam on the non-playing side of the CD.

I have tried plain soap and water, alcohol, and even lighter fluid. Nothing removes this gunk and I don't want to insert the CD in my player and risk gumming up the mechanism. Any recommendations as to how to remove this gunk would be appreciated?
jec

Showing 1 response by sfar

sfar's avatar
sfar
1,768 posts
 
Whatever you try, do it first on a blank CD or a CD you don't care about, particularly if you're going to try a solvent as powerful as Acetone.

I, too, would have recommended Goo-Gone or one of the similar citrus based cleaners. WD-40 dissolves some kinds of adhesives and might be worth a try. You might combine the solvent with a Magic Eraser pad, followed by a good plastic polish.

Test first.
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