Is it safe to use a regular marker (Sharpie, etc.) to write on a CD-R disc?

In the past I've used a special CD-R marker to write on CD-R's. But I'm wondering if it's OK to just use a regular felt-tip marker (Sharpie, etc.). (Obviously, a pen that you have to use pressure with (ballpoint, etc.) would NOT be safe.)

Solution 1:

The danger is that there could be a chemical reaction between the components of the marker's ink and disk's surface. Some "permanent" markers are quite aggressive, and while the damage is not immediate, it could happen over time. Council on Library and Information Resources says in their report:

Numerous CD vendors have noted that the thin protective lacquer coating can deteriorate from contact with certain solvents in markers. To eliminate the risk, water-based markers are recommended for CD labeling. As a solvent, alcohol is generally less damaging than xylene and toluene, which are common in aromatic solvent-based markers. According to anecdotal reports, alcohol-based markers can be used to label CDs without causing performance problems. However, there are no explicit lab test results to show what effect solvents in markers have on different CDs or DVDs, particularly over the long term.

Regarding Sharpie markers specifically, this is what Sharpie's FAQ says:

Newell Rubbermaid has used Sharpie markers on CDs for years and we have never experienced a problem. We do not believe that the Sharpie ink can affect these CDs, however we have not performed any long-term laboratory testing to verify this. We have spoken to many major CD manufacturers about this issue. They use the Sharpie markers on CDs internally as well, and do not believe that the Sharpie ink will cause any harm to their products.

Solution 2:

They will do just fine. I use Sharpies all the time for this with no ill effects. As long as it's not something that will scratch the surface on the disc it will work.