Windows 11 · Windows
Free up disk space in Windows
Source-checked About 10 minutes
Answer
Use Cleanup recommendations and Storage Sense, uninstall unused apps, and move large personal files after reviewing every deletion.
Check the starting state
Before changing Windows disk-space cleanup, record free space, review Storage categories, protect Downloads and cloud-only data, and identify which files or apps are actually large. Keep the current state, exact message, and any recent change available so each result can be compared.
Choose the supported path
Use Cleanup recommendations, Storage Sense, supported uninstall controls, and deliberate file moves rather than deleting unknown system or installer folders. Review OneDrive retention and Recycle Bin behavior before confirming removal.
Review Cleanup recommendations
Open Settings > System > Storage > Cleanup recommendations and inspect each category.
Configure Storage Sense
Choose how temporary files, Recycle Bin items, Downloads, and cloud files are handled.
Remove unused apps
Sort installed apps by size and uninstall only apps you recognize and no longer need.
Move large files
Move important photos, videos, and archives to external storage or use cloud files on demand.
Verify the result
Confirm the reviewed amount of space is recovered and required files, apps, restore options, and cloud placeholders remain available after restart. Do not empty the Recycle Bin or remove backups until the retained files have been checked.
Troubleshoot Windows disk-space cleanup
If free space immediately falls again, the drive reports health errors, system files dominate unexpectedly, or no backup exists for proposed deletions, stop broad resets and return to the last known state. Preserve the exact error, versions, device or account scope, and failed step before using the linked official support channel.
Video walkthrough
Sources and verification
Checked against official documentation on . Scope: Windows.
Follow the linked first-party guidance if labels differ after a platform or app update.