DOs

1. Handle discs by the outer edge or the center hole
2. Use a non-solvent-based felt-tip permanent marker to mark the label side of the CD-R disc, preferably only in the clear, center hub area.
3. Store discs upright (book style) in plastic cases specified for CDs and DVDs.
4. Return discs to storage cases immediately after use.
5. Leave discs in their packaging (or cases) to minimize the effects of environmental changes.
6. Open a recordable disc package only when you are ready to record data on that disc.
7. Store discs in a cool, dry, dark environment in which the air is clean.
8. Check the disc surface before recording.

DON'Ts

1. Touch the surface of the disc.
2. Bend the disc.
3. Use adhesive labels.
4. Store discs horizontally for a long time (years).
5. Expose discs to extreme heat or high humidity.
6. Open a recordable optical disc package if you are not ready to record.
7. Expose discs to extreme rapid temperature or humidity changes.
8. Expose CD-R or DVD-R/+R discs to prolonged sunlight or other sources of UV light.
9. Write or mark in the data area of the disc (area where the laser reads).
10. Clean in a circular direction around the disc. You should wipe from the center of the disc, straight toward the outer edge.

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