How to Run Disk Cleanup on Windows 11: A Step-by-Step Guide

Over time, your Windows 11 PC accumulates temporary files, cache, old system updates, and other unnecessary data that can slow down performance and take up valuable storage space. Fortunately, Windows 11 includes a built-in tool called Disk Cleanup to help you safely remove these files and free up disk space.

Here’s a simple guide on how to run Disk Cleanup on your Windows 11 system.

Table of Contents

Why Use Disk Cleanup?

Disk Cleanup helps:

Free up hard drive space
Improve overall system performance
Remove leftover files from Windows updates
Get rid of temporary internet and system files

Method 1: Use the Classic Disk Cleanup Tool

Step 1: Open Disk Cleanup

Click the Start button or press the Windows key.
Type Disk Cleanup in the search bar.
Click on the Disk Cleanup app from the search results.

Step 2: Select the Drive

A prompt will appear asking you to choose a drive.
Select the drive you want to clean up (usually C: for your main system drive).
Click OK.

Step 3: Choose Files to Delete

After scanning, Disk Cleanup will display a list of file types you can delete (e.g., Temporary files, Recycle Bin, Thumbnails).
Check the boxes next to the items you want to remove.
Click OK, then click Delete Files to confirm.

Method 2: Clean Up System Files

For a more thorough cleanup:

In the Disk Cleanup window, click on “Clean up system files”.
Re-select your drive if prompted.
After another scan, more options like Windows Update Cleanup and Previous Windows Installations will be available.
Check the boxes for the items you want to delete.
Click OK and then Delete Files.

Bonus: Use Storage Sense for Automatic Cleanup

Windows 11 also has a feature called Storage Sense, which can automate disk cleanup:

Go to Settings > System > Storage.
Toggle on Storage Sense.
Click on Storage Sense to customize when and how often it runs.

Tips for Effective Disk Cleanup

Run Disk Cleanup regularly, especially after Windows updates.
Avoid deleting Download folder contents unless you’re sure you don’t need the files.
Use Storage Sense to manage cleanup automatically.

Conclusion

Disk Cleanup is a simple but powerful tool built into Windows 11 that can help keep your system running smoothly. Whether you run it manually or set up automated cleanups with Storage Sense, regularly removing unnecessary files will ensure your PC stays optimized and clutter-free.