DISC BOILING - A cheap home fix for problem discs.

A while ago I had read on a newsgroup that boiling a game disc will fix slow loads or unrecognizable disc errors. I tried the method and it worked like a charm. The most common culprit discs are ones that come with magazines like Official Xbox Magazine (OXM) and other demo and/or free discs. OXM had a small column about disc boiling once, advising against it for fear of disc damage. I've boiled over 10 discs this way and never had a problem. In fact, the boiled discs work better and faster than any of my games discs that weren't boiled.

The most recent disc I needed to do this with was the Xbox Live Arcade disc. It loaded so slowly and 3 out of 5 times I got a "can't recognize disc" error. I boiled it and now it loads super fast and works every time.

I have no idea why this works. Perhaps it cleans off some factory residue on cheaply produced discs? I don't know. I do know it works though.

The following method has never failed me personally, but if you are in doubt or don't trust me, then just don't do it. Obviously, doing this is at your own risk so don't do it to a disc you couldn't replace just in case you do something wrong or have an accident and ruin a disc. Do it right and you will be really happy about how well it works. I hope this helps you!

1. Boil about 1" of water in a pot larger than the diameter of a disc.
2. Turn off the heat then drop the disc in label side up. It will curl slightly for a second or so. Don't Freak Out! It will flatten back out perfectly almost immediately. Let it sit for 45 seconds in the hot water.
3. Use a spoon handle or something to remove it from the water so you don't burn yourself.
4. Lay it on a clean lint-free towel or cloth and pat it dry.
5. Sometimes there is also a tiny bit of water that gets between the clear plastic at the hole. I get it out by putting the towel through the hole and shaking it around a bit.
6. When it's completely dry, put it in your Xbox and play. You're Welcome!