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Here's my understanding of the CD dilemma. First, a CD is a sandwich with an aluminum layer that receives the encoding. If the edge seal is poor as could be expected with a cheap product, there can be oxidation and with that data is destroyed.

Next, while everyone worries about the clear underside getting scratched, little concern is given to the top of the CD and the substrate is just underneath. Write on it with a sharp instrument and you are adding "data" to the CD. Ditto for the type of ink, say from a permanent marker, that could penetrate. That is why the use of clearly designated CD marking pens is essential.

Physical labeling is the final concern I have for you. The adhesive can warp the underlying substrate and heaven forbid you aren't happy with the alignment and peel up the label to reposition same.

Didn't want to add to your woes and if you are using CD's as a cheap backup with next week's CD replacing last week's, little problem ... as long as you heed the labeling advice. But if you are counting on Sam's Club cheaper by the spindle CD's for permanent archival storage, remember the old adage, "you get what you pay [or vote] for." Over time, they WILL degrade. The trick is to re-master them before that happens.