Low disk space on Windows? How to free up space safely

Before you start

• Important files are backed up, to an external drive or cloud storage.
• You know which folders hold your own files, such as Documents, Pictures and Videos.

0 of 2 done. Ticking just helps you keep track; nothing is saved or sent.

Steps

1. 1

   See what's using the space

   Open Settings > System > Storage. Windows shows a breakdown: apps, temporary files, documents, pictures and more. Select a category to see details.

2. 2

   Clear temporary files

   In Storage, select Temporary files. Tick the items you're happy to remove, such as temporary files and delivery optimisation files, and select Remove files. Check the Downloads folder option carefully before ticking it, because it deletes everything in your Downloads folder.

3. 3

   Use cleanup recommendations (Windows 11)

   In Settings > System > Storage, select Cleanup recommendations. Windows suggests large or unused files, apps you don't use and files already synced to the cloud. Review each list before removing anything.

4. 4

   Turn on Storage Sense

   In Settings > System > Storage, turn on Storage Sense. It clears temporary files automatically and can empty the Recycle Bin after a set time.

5. 5

   Empty the Recycle Bin

   Deleted files stay in the Recycle Bin and keep using space until you empty it. Check there's nothing you want back first.

6. 6

   Uninstall apps you don't use

   Open Settings > Apps > Installed apps. Sort by size to find the largest, and remove anything you no longer need.

7. 7

   Move large files elsewhere

   Photos and videos take up the most room. Move them to an external drive, or use OneDrive's Files On-Demand so they're stored online and only downloaded when you open them.

If this happens, try this

• If "System" or "Other" uses a lot of space

  This includes Windows itself, restore points and hidden files. Leave it alone unless a repairer advises otherwise.

• If space fills up again quickly

  Check the Downloads folder and any app that records video or stores backups.

• If the drive is simply too small

  An external drive or a larger internal drive is a reliable fix.

Things to be careful about

• Don't delete files from the Windows, Program Files or System32 folders. Windows may stop working.

• Avoid "disk cleaner" programs from unknown websites. Windows' own tools are safe and free.

• Be careful with the Downloads cleanup option: it removes everything in that folder.