Keeping your Windows PC clean ensures it runs smoothly, boots faster, and avoids slowdowns caused by unnecessary clutter. Over time, junk files like temporary data, cached files, old update remnants, and leftover program data build up. Removing them regularly is one of the most effective ways to maintain system performance. Below are 12 proven methods with step-by-step instructions to improve junk file removal strategies in Windows.
1. Use Disk Cleanup Tool
1. Press Windows + S and type “Disk Cleanup”.
2. Select the drive you want to clean, usually C:.
3. Allow the system to scan for junk files.
4. Check categories such as Temporary Internet Files, Delivery Optimization Files, and Recycle Bin.
5. Click OK, then choose Delete Files.
2. Clear Temporary Files Manually
1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog.
2. Type %temp% and press Enter.
3. A folder with temporary files will open. Select all files with Ctrl + A and press Delete.
4. Repeat the same by typing temp in the Run dialog and clearing that folder.
3. Empty the Recycle Bin Regularly
1. Right-click the Recycle Bin on your desktop.
2. Select Empty Recycle Bin.
3. Confirm deletion to permanently remove files and free space.
4. Remove Windows Update Residual Files
1. Open Settings by pressing Windows + I.
2. Go to System > Storage.
3. Click Temporary Files.
4. Check Windows Update Cleanup.
5. Click Remove Files.
5. Automate Storage Sense
1. Open Settings and go to System > Storage.
2. Enable Storage Sense.
3. Click Configure Storage Sense or run it now.
4. Set a schedule to automatically remove temporary files, old downloads, and items in the recycle bin.
6. Clean Up Browser Cache
1. Open your browser, such as Microsoft Edge or Chrome.
2. Go to settings and find Clear browsing data.
3. Select cached images, files, and cookies.
4. Choose a time range and confirm the cleanup.
7. Uninstall Unused Programs
1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.
2. Go to Apps > Installed Apps.
3. Scroll through the list and find programs you no longer use.
4. Select Uninstall and follow the prompts.
8. Delete Old Restore Points
1. Press Windows + S and type “System Protection”.
2. Click Configure under Protection Settings.
3. Choose Delete to remove all restore points except the most recent.
4. Apply changes to free up space.
9. Clear Prefetch Files
1. Press Windows + R and type prefetch.
2. Click Continue if prompted.
3. Select all files and delete them.
These files are safe to remove as Windows regenerates them over time.
10. Tidy Up the Downloads Folder
1. Open File Explorer and go to the Downloads folder.
2. Sort files by date or size.
3. Move important files to organized folders.
4. Delete unneeded installers, documents, and media.
11. Use Command Prompt for Advanced Cleanup
1. Press Windows + S, type cmd, and choose Run as administrator.
2. Type cleanmgr /sageset:1 and press Enter.
3. Select the file categories you want to delete.
4. Run cleanmgr /sagerun:1 to execute the cleanup automatically.
12. Optimize with Glary Utilities
Glary Utilities provides an all-in-one solution for junk file removal and system repair.
1. Download and install Glary Utilities.
2. Open the program and select 1-Click Maintenance.
3. Check options like Temporary Files Cleanup, Registry Cleaner, and Spyware Remover.
4. Click Scan for Issues.
5. Once results show, click Repair Problems to remove junk files and optimize performance.
This method is ideal for users who prefer a reliable, automated solution with deeper cleaning compared to built-in Windows tools.
By following these 12 methods, you can keep your Windows system free from unnecessary files and ensure it continues to perform efficiently. From built-in tools like Disk Cleanup to advanced utilities like Glary, these strategies cover both manual and automated approaches for all levels of Windows users.