Mould on video tapes

[vb1966]

I've got several VHS video tapes that show clear signs of mould grow. Most of them have their edge completely white (as seen from the video tape window). I would like to transfer these tapes to DVD. I am a bit reluctant, however, to insert these tapes in my video player. Is there anybody who has experienced this problem? I am afraid that these tapes may permanently damage my player. Any ideas?

[Capmaster]

My gut feeling is that you ought to try. Unless the mold has some abrasive in it (unlikely) the worst you'll do is get your heads dirty. Just don't expect too much

[The village idiot]

Send them out to be cleaned!

[Alan69]

Not much for mold to grow on unless something else was spilled on the tape. More likely a chemical reaction, not a biological problem. And just could be abrasive. Hard to be sure without seeing a picture. And if it's been reacting with the magnetic material your tape may be fubared.

I'd take an old VCR, take off the cover being careful not to touch the electrical side of things, and take a good cloth with alcohol to wipe the tape edge clean as it plays. But I'm electrically and mechanically inclined, not the safest thing for those who aren't. In that case open the tape and do it manually.

Alan