The DVD format is the most durable home entertainment storage device invented to date for the mass market but, unlike some of the original advertising suggested, they are no indestructable and yes, you can scratch, warp and otherwise impair their perfomance unless you take some common sense precautions.
How To Handle DVD Discs
Fingerprints, grease and other debris will be transfered to the surface of the disc if you get your grubby mitts all over it. Always pick up your DVDs by placing your forefinger through the central hole and thumb on the outer edge. This minimises contact and will prevent skipping which is usually caused not by scratches, but by fingerprints etc. on the disc.
When removing the disc from the casing, push down on the central button and the disc will be released more easily. Just pulling up on it can warp the disc over time.
Storage
It goes without saying that after you have finished with a disc, return it immediately to its plastic casing. Leaving it lying around is a sure way to get it scratched, no matter how careful you are. In addition, a disc left out of its case will attract dust and other debris which can make it skip next time you play it.
Never put discs face down on an external surface other than their home case and check no biscuit crumbs, popcorn kernels or other debris have found there way into the case (yes, we're all slobs when watching movies!).
Never put two discs in the same case. Doubling up in this way is a sure way to scratch one or both of the discs.
Keep the DVD disc out of direct sunlight. Excessive heat or sunlight can cause the disc to warp and become unplayable or degrade the quality of playback at least.
Cleaning DVD Discs
When cleaning a DVD it is tempting to wipe in a circular motion.
DON'T DO IT!
Despite the look of a DVD, the tracks are actually laid down from centre to edge, and not in a circle. Wipe gently in a straight line from centre to edge using a soft, dry, lint-free cloth. Do not use water, do not use a 'fluffy' cloth which is going to leave junk all over the surface or you'll just be making it worse.
Playing DVDs
When you play your DVD ensure you are putting it the right way up into your DVD player! Also make sure it is loaded correctly in the tray and there are no hairs, dust or other nasties on the loading tray. Never leave the loading tray open when not in use, because this is a sure way to a) get it broken off and b) get it full or dust and junk which'll make your DVDs skip.
Look after your DVDs and they will last many, many years and for online rental, it's a common courtesy to treat their discs with the same care you would give your own. After all, if everyone did that, then the frustration of receiving a scratched or otherwise unplayable DVD in the post would be a thing you rarely heard of...
