Open Storage cleanup recommendations, review every category, and remove only files you recognize. Move personal files before deleting restore or rollback data.
Open File Explorer > This PC and note the free space on Local Disk (C:). Then open Settings > System > Storage and let Windows calculate the categories. This distinguishes temporary files from installed apps, personal files, and system-reserved storage.
2
Review cleanup recommendations
Select Cleanup recommendations and open each category rather than accepting everything at once. Preview large or unused files and confirm that no selected item is still needed. Be especially careful with Downloads, Recycle Bin, and previous Windows installation files.
3
Remove safe temporary files
In Storage, open Temporary files, allow the scan to finish, and select only categories you understand. Windows Update cleanup, thumbnails, and temporary internet files can usually be recreated; Downloads and previous Windows installations may contain files or rollback data you still need.
4
Uninstall unused apps and games
Open Settings > Apps > Installed apps, sort by size, and uninstall programs you recognize and no longer use. Use the app's own uninstaller when Windows directs you to it. Do not manually delete application folders because that can leave broken services or registry entries.
5
Move personal files safely
Move large videos, installers, archives, or project folders to a verified external drive or cloud location. Open several copied files and confirm cloud synchronization before deleting the originals. Empty Recycle Bin only after this check.
6
Configure Storage Sense for maintenance
Return to Settings > System > Storage and open Storage Sense. Review its schedule and Recycle Bin or Downloads retention settings before enabling it, so Windows does not automatically remove files sooner than expected.
7
Recheck capacity and investigate abnormal growth
Restart if an update cleanup requires it, then recheck This PC. If space immediately disappears again, review Storage categories for the growing area instead of repeatedly deleting temporary folders; application caches, restore points, or a failed update may need targeted support.
If Windows reports little space after cleanup, return to Storage and identify the category still consuming it. Do not delete unknown system folders; protect personal files and use Microsoft or the PC maker's support for abnormal system or recovery-storage growth.
ⓘ 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.
