How to Clean Up Disk Space on Windows 11

Windows 11, the most recent version of Microsoft’s operating system, introduces a stylish and contemporary user interface. However, even the most advanced systems can accumulate clutter over time, leading to decreased performance and reduced storage space. In this guide, we will walk you through the steps to effectively clean up disk space on Windows 11, ensuring that your computer runs smoothly and efficiently.

Windows 11 introduces a range of new features and enhancements, but it’s essential to keep your system organized and clutter-free for optimal performance. Disk cleanup is a routine maintenance task that can help you regain valuable space on your device and boost speed.

Steps to Clean Up Disk Space on Windows 11

1. Using the New Settings Menu

Windows 11 brings a refreshed Settings menu, making it easier to manage disk space:

1. Open Settings by pressing the Windows key, typing “Settings” and pressing Enter.
2. Navigate to System and then Storage. You will find an overview of your storage usage.
3. Click on “Cleanup Recommendations” or “Free up space now” depending on your version. Windows 11 will scan your system for unnecessary files.
4. Select the categories such as Temporary files, Recycle Bin, Thumbnails, Delivery Optimization Files, etc.
5. Click the “Remove files” button to delete the selected files and free up disk space.

2. Managing App Space

Windows 11 offers improved control over the space used by your installed applications:

1. Go to Settings > Apps > Installed Apps.
2. Sort apps by size to display which ones are occupying the most space.
3. Identify apps you no longer use and click “Uninstall” to remove them.

3. Removing Temporary Files

Temporary files can accumulate quickly. To clear them manually:

1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog.
2. Type “cleanmgr” and press Enter.
3. Select the drive you want to clean (usually C:).
4. Check Temporary Files, Downloaded Program Files, Recycle Bin, and other unneeded categories, then click “OK”.

4. Disk Cleanup with Storage Sense

Windows 11 automates cleanup with Storage Sense:

1. Open Settings > System > Storage.
2. Click “Storage Sense“.
3. Toggle Storage Sense to “On”.
4. Configure when and how often to automatically delete temporary files, emptied recycle bin files, and unused cloud-backed content.

Additional Tips for Maximizing Disk Space

Clear Downloads Folder

Delete unneeded files from your Downloads folder, as it often accumulates large files over time.

Manage OneDrive Files

Enable “Files On-Demand” for OneDrive to free up local storage while keeping access to cloud files.

Move Files to External Drives

Move large media files (videos, pictures, music) to external hard drives or USB drives to save space.

Disable Hibernation

Hibernation mode stores a hiberfil.sys file that can be several GBs. If you don’t use it, you can disable it:

powercfg.exe /hibernate off

Regular System Maintenance

Update your operating system, drivers, and applications regularly to ensure optimized performance and reduced unnecessary storage use.

Conclusion

By regularly cleaning up your Windows 11 computer, you ensure optimal performance and maximize your available storage space. Using built-in tools like Disk Cleanup, Storage Sense, and managing your applications effectively will keep your system running fast and smoothly.

For more maintenance tips, check out our related articles:

• How to Clean Up Computer Disk Space
• How to Use Disk Cleanup to Delete Temporary Files
• How to Delete Temporary Files in Windows 11
• How to Speed Up Your Computer with Windows OS