Are you a music lover? Do you have a collection of CDs that you want to keep for a long time? If so, then you need to know how to store your CDs properly. CDs can be easily damaged if not stored in good quality cd storage units, and this can cause you trouble. Let us discuss how not to store CDs so we can prevent CD rot and know about ways that affect CDs.
Did you ever read at what temperature do CDs melt?. CDs are made of polycarbonate plastic, which is a type of thermoplastic polymer. This means that CDs can be melted if exposed to high temperatures. It is easy to understand what temperature a CD can withstand since the melting point of polycarbonate is around 150 degrees Celsius.
CDs can withstand temperatures up to 60 degrees Celsius without melting. But, exposing CDs to high temperatures for extended periods can cause damage to the data layer, which can lead to CD rot.
How do you prevent CD rot?
CD rot happens when the data layer of a CD deteriorates over time. This can be caused by exposure to heat, light, and humidity. When the data layer is damaged, the CD becomes unreadable, and the data stored on it is lost forever.
So, how can we prevent CD rot? The first step is to store CDs properly. Here are some tips on how to store CDs long-term:
Store CDs in a cool, dry place
CDs should be stored in an area where the temperature is between 5-20 degrees Celsius (41-68 degrees Fahrenheit) and humidity is between 30-50%. Avoid storing CDs in areas where the temperature and humidity fluctuate, such as basements or attics.
Keep CDs away from direct sunlight
Exposure to sunlight can cause damage to the data layer of a CD. Store CDs in a dark place or in a case that blocks out light.
Handle CDs with care
Avoid touching the data layer of a CD. Handle CDs by the edges or the center hole.
Use high-quality cases
Store CDs in cd storage case that are made of high-quality materials, such as polycarbonate or polypropylene. Avoid using cases made of PVC, as this material can damage CDs over time.
Keep CDs upright
Store CDs upright in their cases. Avoid stacking CDs on top of each other, as this can cause scratches and damage to the data layer.
Ways that affect CDs
Now that we know how to store CDs properly, let’s talk about ways that affect CDs.
Scratches
Scratches on the data layer of a CD can cause the CD to skip, stutter or become unreadable. Avoid using abrasive materials to clean CDs, as this can cause scratches. Instead, use a soft, lint-free cloth to wipe the CD in a straight line from the center to the edge.
Exposure to heat and light
As we mentioned earlier, CDs can be damaged by exposure to heat and light. Avoid leaving CDs in your car or in areas where the temperature and humidity fluctuate.
Exposure to moisture
CDs should be kept away from moisture, as this can cause damage to the data layer. Avoid storing CDs in areas where there is a risk of water damage, such as basements or near windows.
Poor quality CDs
CDs that are manufactured poorly are more likely to suffer from CD rot. Avoid buying CDs that are made from low-quality materials or are manufactured by unknown brands.
CD Burning
Burning CDs can also affect the longevity of your CDs. Cheap CDs or poor burning techniques can cause the data layer of the CD to degrade faster. To prevent this, use high-quality CDs and follow the burning instructions carefully.
Long-Term Storage
Finally, long-term storage can also affect CDs. CDs that are not played or used for long periods can become damaged or degrade faster. To prevent this, play your CDs regularly and store them properly.
By following these tips, you can keep your CDs in good condition for a long time. Remember to store your CDs in a cool, dry place, keep them away from direct sunlight, handle them with care, use high-quality cases, and keep them upright. By taking great care of CDs, you can enjoy your music collection for years to come.
CDs are a great way to enjoy music, but they are fragile and can be easily damaged. Hence, they require proper storage to maintain their quality. By following all the tips outlined in this blog, you can keep your CDs in good condition for many years. Avoid scratches, exposure to heat, light, and moisture, burning CDs with cheap CDs or poor techniques, and long-term storage . By doing so, you can prevent CD rot and keep your music collection intact.