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How to free up disk space automatically in Windows 11

Turn on Storage Sense in Settings > System > Storage. It deletes temporary files and empties the recycle bin on a schedule. Leave the Downloads cleanup off unless that folder is only junk.

How to do it

  1. Open Settings > System > Storage.

  2. Turn Storage Sense on.

  3. Open the Storage Sense settings under the switch.

  4. Leave temporary files and the recycle bin on a schedule if you want. Turn off cleanup of the Downloads folder unless you are sure it only holds junk.

Run it once with the button on that page if you want to see it work today. After that the schedule is the point.

Other ways to do it

  • BleachBit App

    Pick it if you want a deeper one-off clean of app caches, with no ads.

    Stick with this tip if you want it to happen on its own every month.

  • Cleanup recommendations Built in

    Pick it if you want to see the biggest files and unused apps and decide yourself.

    Stick with this tip if you want something that runs without you.

Questions people ask

Is Storage Sense safe?

Yes for temporary files and the recycle bin. The Downloads option is the one that can delete things you meant to keep.

Do I need a cleaner app like CCleaner?

Most people don't. Storage Sense and the cleanup recommendations on the same Storage page cover the useful parts.

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