How to Delete Junk Files in Windows 11

To delete junk files in Windows 11, open Settings, go to System > Storage > Cleanup recommendations, check the items you want to remove, and click Clean up. To have Windows do this for you automatically, turn on Storage Sense on the same Storage page.

Junk files are things like temporary files, leftover update files and items sitting in the Recycle Bin. This guide covers Windows 11’s built-in tools for clearing them, from easiest to most hands-on. The steps apply to Windows 11 versions 24H2 and 25H2 as of October 2026 and follow Microsoft’s articles on freeing up drive space, Storage Sense and deleting temporary files.

How to Delete Junk Files With Cleanup Recommendations

1. Click Start > Settings.
2. Click System, then Storage.
3. Click Cleanup recommendations.
4. Open each section: Temporary files, Large or unused files, Files synced to the cloud and Unused apps.
5. Check the items you want to remove. Windows shows how much space you’ll get back.
6. Click Clean up in each section.

The selected files are removed and the space is freed right away.

Be careful with Previous Windows installation. Microsoft warns that deleting it removes the Windows.old folder, can’t be undone, and means you can’t go back to your previous version of Windows. See how to delete Windows.old first.

How to Turn On Storage Sense

Storage Sense automatically removes items you don’t need, like temporary files and items in your Recycle Bin.

1. Go to Settings > System > Storage.
2. Turn on Storage Sense.
3. Click Storage Sense to choose how often it runs and how long files can stay in the Recycle Bin and Downloads folder. You can also run it right away.

How to Use Disk Cleanup

Microsoft says the classic Disk Cleanup tool is still one of the most effective ways to delete temporary files, and it can remove items like temporary internet files, the delivery optimization cache and old system restore points.

1. Search for Disk Cleanup in the taskbar and open it.
2. Choose the drive to clean, usually C:.
3. Let it scan, then select the file types you want to remove.
4. Click OK.

For even more space, click Clean up system files, pick the drive again, and wait for a new scan. Microsoft notes this can remove outdated Windows Update files that may take up several gigabytes. Leave Previous Windows installation(s) unchecked if you might want to go back to your old version of Windows. Click OK, then Delete Files, to confirm.

How to Clear Temp Folders Manually

1. Press Windows key + R, type %temp%, and press Enter.
2. Select the files inside and delete them. Skip anything Windows says is in use.
3. Go to C:\Windows\Temp and repeat.

Microsoft’s advice is to stick to the temp folders only, since deleting files elsewhere can cause problems. For ongoing cleanup, Storage Sense or Disk Cleanup is safer. Our guide to deleting temp files in Windows 11 has more detail.

Other Ways to Free Up Space

• Empty the Recycle Bin. Deleted files still use space until you do.
• Remove apps you don’t use. See how to find installed programs.
• Use OneDrive Files On-Demand so cloud files don’t take up full space on your PC.
• Move big photos and videos to an external drive. To find them, see what’s taking up space on your PC.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to delete junk files?

Yes, if you use Windows’ built-in tools and review the list first. Look carefully at Large or unused files and your Downloads folder before you click Clean up.

Will deleting junk files speed up my PC?

It frees space, and Microsoft notes that a nearly full drive can make it harder to install Windows updates and keep your PC running well.

How do I clear my recent files list?

That’s a privacy setting rather than junk. See how to clear recent files in Windows 11.