You guys are terrific; thanks for all the positive reinforcement and varied ideas.
Thankfully, another test run of a crummy CD proved that the player has -- at least in the short term -- recovered from its scalding. I dared to play Dave Matthews in his fabulous entirety this morning without a hitch. Suspect that, as Lebenz has said, I will leave it alone as long as it works.
I am curious to hear your opinions of the electrical component cleaner, as suggested by Ashman, from those of you in the electronic know. Also, has anyone else ever tried the plain water and dab-dry method? I would think the item used for drying might be important (dust, lint, etc coming from something absorbent like a towel or diaper, vs. some other specialized thing?) How about a blow dryer set on cool?
Appreciate all your input.

S Car Go (with tunes) Rock on!

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Fun, fun, fun