Windows 10 computers collect a lot of temporary files over time. These files can slow down your system and take up valuable space on your hard drive. If you’re new to computers, the idea of cleaning up these files might sound a little intimidating. But don’t worry—there are easy and safe ways to clear out these unnecessary files and keep your PC running smoothly. In this guide, you will learn the best methods to clean up temporary files, and get practical steps you can follow right now.
Why Should You Clean Up Temporary Files?
Temporary files are used by Windows and other programs to store data temporarily. Over time, these files can build up and use a lot of storage. If left unchecked, they may cause your computer to run slower or even create problems when installing updates. Regular cleanup helps your computer run more efficiently and avoids common performance issues.
What Are the Easiest Ways to Delete Temporary Files in Windows 10?
There are several beginner-friendly methods you can use. Let’s go through each one step by step.
Using Windows 10’s Built-In Storage Sense
Windows 10 has a tool called Storage Sense that can automatically remove temporary files.
1. Click on the Start button, then select Settings (the gear icon).
2. Click on System.
3. Choose Storage from the left menu.
4. You’ll see Storage Sense at the top. Toggle it ON.
5. Click on “Configure Storage Sense or run it now” for more options.
6. Under “Temporary Files,” check the boxes for files you want to remove, like “Delete temporary files that apps aren’t using.”
7. Scroll down and click “Clean now” to start the cleanup.
This method is simple and safe, making it perfect for beginners.
Manually Deleting Temporary Files Using Disk Cleanup
Disk Cleanup is another built-in Windows tool that helps you safely remove unnecessary files.
1. Type “Disk Cleanup” in the search bar on the taskbar and press Enter.
2. Select the drive you want to clean (usually C:) and click OK.
3. Disk Cleanup will scan your system and show a list of file types you can delete.
4. Check the boxes next to “Temporary files,” “Recycle Bin,” and any others you want to clean.
5. Click OK, then confirm by clicking “Delete Files.”
This tool has been around for years and is trusted by Windows users of all levels.
How Can Glary Utilities Help With Temporary File Cleanup?
For those looking for an even easier solution, Glary Utilities is a great all-in-one system maintenance tool. It’s especially helpful for beginners because it combines many clean-up tasks (including temporary file removal) into a single click.
Here’s how to use Glary Utilities to clean up temporary files:
1. Download and install Glary Utilities from their official website.
2. Open the program.
3. On the main screen, click on “1-Click Maintenance.”
4. Make sure “Temporary Files Cleaner” is checked.
5. Click “Scan for Issues.”
6. When the scan is complete, click “Repair Problems” to remove all detected temporary files and other unnecessary items.
Glary Utilities is user-friendly and safe, and it also offers additional features like registry repair and startup optimization, making it a great tool for overall system health.
What About Deleting Temporary Files Manually?
You can also delete temporary files manually using File Explorer, though this is more hands-on. Here’s how:
1. Press Windows + R on your keyboard to open the Run dialog.
2. Type %temp% and press Enter.
3. This opens the Temp folder. Press Ctrl + A to select all files, right-click, and choose “Delete.”
4. Repeat with the following command in Run: temp and delete files in that folder as well.
While this method works, it’s a little riskier if you’re unsure which files are safe to remove. The previous methods are recommended for beginners.
How Often Should You Clean Temporary Files?
For most users, once a month is a good routine. If you notice your PC is running slow or you’re running out of disk space, you might want to clean up temporary files more often.
What Else Can Help Keep My Computer Clean?
Besides temporary files, junk files can build up in other places too. Glary Utilities offers a comprehensive approach with features like Registry Cleaner, Shortcut Fixer, and even a startup manager. This means you can keep your computer tidy and efficient with minimal effort.
Conclusion
Cleaning up temporary files on Windows 10 doesn’t have to be hard or scary. Start with built-in tools like Storage Sense or Disk Cleanup for easy and safe results. If you want a faster, more thorough solution, Glary Utilities’ “1-Click Maintenance” is perfect for beginners and takes care of much more than just temporary files. By making this a regular habit, your Windows 10 computer will run faster and more reliably—no technical expertise required!