DVD players aren't heavy-duty electronics, which makes their malfunctions mercifully easy to diagnose. However, when your player does break down, a thorough cleaning can be just what it needs for another few years of life. Too much invasive cleaning isn't good for the DVD player - in general, it's better to just leave it alone to get on with its movie-playing business.

Provide a little moisture once a week by dusting it with a damp (not wet!) cloth and it'll be fine. Taking care of a DVD player is a lot like taking care of a cactus.