Unwanted files and digital clutter can make your Windows computer run slower, take up valuable storage, and even cause annoying errors. If you’re a beginner, you might not know where to start when it comes to getting rid of these junk files. The good news is, with the right tools and a bit of guidance, cleaning up your PC can be simple and effective. Let’s walk through easy-to-follow strategies, starting with the basics and moving on to some more advanced—but still beginner-friendly—methods.
What Are Junk Files and Why Should You Remove Them?
Junk files are unnecessary files that build up over time on your computer. These include temporary files, browser cache, leftover files from uninstalled programs, log files, Recycle Bin contents, and more. If left unchecked, they slow down your system and reduce the available space on your hard drive.
How Can You Manually Remove Junk Files?
For beginners, Windows provides built-in tools that make it easy to start cleaning up your PC.
Using Disk Cleanup
1. Click the Start button and type “Disk Cleanup.”
2. Select the Disk Cleanup app from the search results.
3. Choose the drive you want to clean (usually C:) and click OK.
4. Disk Cleanup will scan and show a list of file types you can remove, such as Temporary files, Recycle Bin, and Thumbnails.
5. Check the boxes next to the types of files you want to delete.
6. Click OK, then confirm by clicking Delete Files.
This built-in utility is safe and straightforward, making it a good starting point for beginners.
Emptying the Recycle Bin
Files you delete in Windows usually go to the Recycle Bin first and still take up space.
1. Right-click the Recycle Bin icon on your desktop.
2. Select “Empty Recycle Bin.”
3. Confirm your choice.
Deleting Browser Cache
Your web browser saves temporary files to speed up browsing, but over time, these can add up. Here’s how to clear them in Microsoft Edge:
1. Open Microsoft Edge.
2. Press Ctrl + Shift + Delete on your keyboard.
3. Select “Cached images and files.”
4. Click “Clear now.”
Other browsers, like Chrome or Firefox, have similar options in their settings.
What Are the Limitations of Manual Cleanup?
Manual methods are helpful, but they don’t always catch everything. Some junk files are hidden away in system folders, or belong to programs that don’t always clean up after themselves. That’s where dedicated cleanup utilities come in handy.
How Can Glary Utilities Make Junk File Removal Even Easier?
Glary Utilities is a comprehensive and user-friendly tool for cleaning up and repairing your Windows computer. Even if you’re new to PC maintenance, it makes the process as simple as a few clicks.
Using Glary Utilities for a Deep Clean
1. Download and install Glary Utilities from the official website.
2. Open the program.
3. On the main screen, click the “1-Click Maintenance” tab.
4. Make sure “Temporary Files Cleaner” is checked.
5. Click “Scan for Issues.” Glary Utilities will scan your system for junk files, broken shortcuts, and more.
6. Once the scan is complete, click “Repair Problems” to safely remove the detected junk files.
Glary Utilities does more than just remove temporary files. It also cleans up unnecessary system files, clears browser history and cache from multiple browsers at once, and fixes invalid registry entries, all in one go.
What Other Beginner-Friendly Tips Help Keep Your PC Clean?
Schedule Regular Cleanups
Set a reminder to run Disk Cleanup or Glary Utilities once a week. This habit prevents junk files from piling up and keeps your system running smoothly.
Uninstall Unused Programs
1. Click Start, then Settings (gear icon).
2. Go to Apps.
3. Scroll through the list and select programs you no longer use.
4. Click “Uninstall” to remove them.
Try Glary Utilities’ Uninstall Manager for a more thorough removal process, as it can clean up leftover files after uninstallation.
Keep Your Downloads Folder Organized
Regularly go through your Downloads folder and delete files you no longer need. This simple habit can save a surprising amount of space.
Why Is Regular Maintenance Important?
Just like a car, your Windows PC needs regular maintenance to perform at its best. Removing junk files improves speed, frees up storage, and can even prevent system errors. By using both Windows’ built-in tools and beginner-friendly programs like Glary Utilities, you’ll ensure your computer stays clean and efficient with minimal effort.
In Summary
Junk file removal doesn’t have to be complicated. Start with Windows’ basic tools, get comfortable with manual cleanups, and then let a trusted program like Glary Utilities handle the deeper cleaning for you. With these strategies, even a beginner can enjoy a faster, more reliable Windows experience.