How to Clean Up Windows 10/11: Free Up Space & Boost Performance

As time passes, Windows PCs accumulate temporary files, cache, and other junk data that can slow down the system. Cleaning junk from your PC not only speeds up your computer but also frees up valuable disk space. In this guide, you'll learn how to clean up Windows 10/11 and boost performance using both manual methods and specialized cleaning tools. We'll also cover the importance of staying up-to-date with Windows updates, driver updates, and disk optimization. Important: Always be cautious during cleanup-avoid deleting system files unless you're sure what they are for.

Step-by-Step Manual Windows Cleanup

Manual cleanup means removing unnecessary files and data using built-in Windows tools. This approach to cleaning up junk without third-party programs includes clearing temporary files, emptying the Recycle Bin, disabling unnecessary startup programs, and uninstalling unused applications. Here are the key steps:

1. Deleting Temporary Files. Windows creates temporary files that gradually take up disk space. In Windows 11, open Start → Settings → System → Storage → Cleanup Recommendations. The system will scan your device and suggest deleting temporary files, thumbnails, Recycle Bin contents, and more. Select 'Temporary files' and other unwanted categories, then confirm deletion-Windows will show how much space will be freed.
   Alternatively, use the "Disk Cleanup" utility: press Win+R, type cleanmgr, and hit Enter. Select your drive (usually C:), check the file types to delete (including temporary files and Recycle Bin), then click OK to remove them.
   Note: If some temporary files are in use by the system and can't be deleted, simply skip them-they'll be removed automatically later or after a reboot.
2. Emptying the Recycle Bin. Deleted files first go to the Recycle Bin and continue taking up space. To permanently erase them, open the Recycle Bin (from the desktop or File Explorer), check that there's nothing you need, and select 'Empty Recycle Bin'. Confirm deletion, and the occupied space will be freed. Regularly emptying the Recycle Bin is a simple way to keep your system tidy. In Windows 10/11, you can automate this using Storage Sense to delete files in the bin after, for example, 30 days of inactivity.
3. Managing Startup Programs. Many programs launch automatically when you sign in, slowing down startup and consuming background resources. To optimize startup, open Task Manager (Ctrl + Shift + Esc), go to the Startup tab, and see which apps run with Windows. It also shows their startup impact (low, medium, high). Disable the ones you don't need by selecting the app and clicking 'Disable'. For example, messengers or cloud clients you rarely use can be safely removed from startup.
   Tip: Pay attention to the 'Startup impact' column-disabling high-impact apps has the biggest effect on speeding up Windows startup.
   You can also manage startup apps via Settings → Apps → Startup in Windows 10/11, using the toggles next to each program.
4. Uninstalling Unused Programs. Periodically review your installed programs and games-there are likely apps you no longer use. These take up disk space and may run background processes. Uninstall such apps via Start → Settings → Apps → Installed Apps (Windows 11) or 'Apps & Features' (Windows 10). Select a program, click 'Uninstall', and confirm.
   In classic Control Panel, go to 'Programs and Features' to uninstall apps. Removing unused software not only frees up space but can also reduce system load.
   Note: Don't accidentally remove system components or driver programs. If you're unsure about a program, research it first or leave it installed.

Free PC Cleaning Tools (CCleaner Alternatives)

Besides Windows' built-in utilities, there are dedicated programs that help you quickly remove accumulated junk. While CCleaner is no longer available in some regions, several excellent free alternatives exist:

• BleachBit - A free, open-source utility for cleaning temporary files, browser caches, histories, and other junk. BleachBit supports Windows 7/8/10/11 and Linux. It's easy to use: simply check the data categories you want to clean (internet cache, logs, temp files, etc.) and start the cleanup. BleachBit is a leading CCleaner alternative thanks to its effectiveness and ad-free experience.
  Note: BleachBit offers advanced features like secure file deletion-use them carefully.
• Glary Utilities - A multifunctional toolkit for optimizing and cleaning Windows. The free version includes a temporary files cleaner, registry error fixer, startup manager, and more. The user interface is beginner-friendly, with one-click express cleaning and separate modules for various tasks. Glary Utilities works on Windows 7-11 and receives regular updates.
• Wise Disk Cleaner - A specialized free tool for disk cleaning. It scans for temporary files, caches, and junk, then offers to delete them. You can select file types to remove (browser caches, Windows update logs, Recycle Bin junk, etc.). Wise Disk Cleaner is available in multiple languages and has an intuitive interface. The developer also offers Wise Registry Cleaner, but only use registry cleaners if you understand the risks.
• PrivaZer - A deep-cleaning tool focused on privacy protection. Free to use, PrivaZer removes leftover files, usage histories, and other traces of activity. It scans not only standard temp files but also old restore points, obsolete Windows update files, memory caches, and more. You can preview what will be deleted before proceeding.
  Note: PrivaZer provides thorough cleaning, but scanning and cleaning may take longer than with simpler tools.

Other notable tools include Advanced SystemCare Free, Ashampoo WinOptimizer (Free), Clean Master for PC, and more. When choosing a program, check its compatibility with your Windows version, user reviews, and the developer's reputation.

The Importance of Windows and Driver Updates

Keeping your system updated is vital for performance. Windows updates often bring optimizations, bug fixes, and security enhancements that can improve speed and stability. One of the first steps to speeding up your PC is to ensure you have the latest Windows and device driver updates installed. Checking for updates via Windows Update not only patches your OS but often finds updated hardware drivers to improve device operation.

• Windows Updates: Go to Start → Settings → Windows Update and click 'Check for updates'. Install all important updates. In Windows 11, enable automatic updates for the latest security patches and performance improvements. Windows 10 users should also watch for major feature updates released a few times a year.
• Driver Updates: Up-to-date drivers ensure your hardware runs optimally. Windows Update usually updates chipset, graphics, sound, and other drivers automatically. However, for graphics cards (NVIDIA/AMD) and specialized hardware, it's wise to check the manufacturer's website for the latest versions. New GPU drivers can noticeably improve gaming and application performance and fix bugs.
  Important: Only download drivers from official websites or via Windows Update to avoid malware or fake packages.

Regular updates not only boost speed but also strengthen your PC's security. Don't postpone restarts needed for updates-often, your computer will run faster and more reliably after improvements are applied.

Disk Optimization for Better Performance

Windows performance heavily depends on the speed of your drives-whether you use a traditional HDD or a solid-state SSD. Here's how to optimize your storage subsystem:

• HDD Defragmentation: Over time, files on hard drives become fragmented, scattering parts across the disk and slowing down access. Defragmentation rearranges file fragments for faster read/write speeds. Windows 10/11 automatically schedules weekly defragmentation via 'Optimize Drives', but it's good practice to check fragmentation manually if you use your PC heavily. Open Start, type "Defragment and Optimize Drives," select your HDD, and click 'Optimize'. If fragmentation exceeds ~10-20%, the operation may take a while, but performance will improve once done.
• SSD Optimization: SSDs don't need defragmentation-fragmentation doesn't slow them down and forced defrag actually wears them out faster. Windows automatically sends the TRIM command to SSDs to optimize data placement. Never manually defragment an SSD. The 'Optimize Drives' tool detects your drive type and applies the correct method: defrag for HDDs, TRIM for SSDs. Just ensure scheduled optimization is enabled.
• Freeing Up Disk Space: Keep at least 10-15% of your system drive (usually C:) free at all times. When the disk is nearly full, Windows struggles to allocate space for temp files and cache, causing slowdowns. Removing junk files (temp, Recycle Bin, logs) directly improves performance, especially if free space was low. Use Settings → System → Storage to see what's taking up space and remove or move large files to an external drive if needed.
• Checking for Disk Errors: Sometimes, slowdowns are caused by file system errors or bad sectors. It's helpful to periodically check your HDD or SSD for issues: open 'This PC', right-click the system drive (C:), select Properties → Tools → Check. Windows will scan and fix any found problems. Run this check every few months or if you suspect issues (like frequent file read errors).

Precautions When Cleaning Your System

It's crucial to clean your system carefully, avoiding accidental removal or disabling of important components. Here are some key precautions:

• Don't delete system files or folders. Never manually clean out Windows, System32, Program Files, or similar directories unless you know exactly what you're doing. Removing files from these locations can cause unpredictable system errors. Only clean temporary files and caches located in special folders (Temp, AppData\Local\Temp, browser cache folders, etc.), or those flagged by Windows cleaning tools. For example, only remove old installation files (Windows.old) using the official Disk Cleanup utility.
• Be cautious with registry cleaning. Many utilities offer registry cleaning, claiming to remove errors or obsolete entries. However, cleaning the registry rarely improves performance and carries risks-deleting the wrong keys may break programs or Windows itself. Microsoft does not recommend third-party registry cleaners. If you decide to clean the registry, always create a restore point first.
• Don't disable system services or security. Some guides suggest turning off services or security features to speed up Windows. This is unnecessary-modern Windows versions are already well optimized. Don't disable Windows Defender or the firewall, as this exposes your PC to risks. Also, avoid shutting down essential processes like Superfetch or Windows Update unless absolutely necessary.
• Use trusted software only. Download cleaning tools only from official developer sites or reputable sources. Avoid dubious "tweakers" promising magical speed-ups-they may do nothing or, worse, harm your system or install unwanted software. Stick to proven tools like BleachBit, Glary, or Wise for safe cleaning.
• Back up important data. Before deleting anything significant (large programs, drivers, or files), ensure you have a backup. It's also wise to periodically create system restore points. If problems arise after cleanup, you'll be able to restore your PC to working order.

Following these precautions minimizes the risk of damaging your PC during cleanup. Always double-check before deleting files to ensure you're not removing something essential for Windows operation.

Conclusion

Keeping your computer "clean" is key to optimal performance and long life. We've covered how to clean up your PC-from deleting temporary files to optimizing your disks. Regularly performing simple steps like emptying the Recycle Bin, managing startup apps, uninstalling unnecessary programs, and updating your system can make Windows 10/11 noticeably faster and more stable. Free cleaning tools like BleachBit can further automate and simplify the process.

Remember to balance thoroughness with caution: only remove what you truly don't need, and leave critical system components alone. Modern Windows versions are quite good at self-maintenance (for example, with Storage Sense), so your role is to assist rather than overburden the system with extra software. Plan a thorough cleanup every few months or whenever you notice issues (like low space or slowdowns).

By following this guide, even beginners can effectively clean junk from Windows and give their PC a new lease on speed. Enjoy faster boot times and snappier system response!

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I clean up junk from Windows 11 without third-party programs?

Windows 11 includes built-in tools for system cleanup-no need for extra software. First, use "Cleanup Recommendations": go to Settings → System → Storage → Cleanup Recommendations. Windows will analyze your drive and offer to delete temporary files, empty the Recycle Bin, and remove unused apps. You can also use the classic "Disk Cleanup" tool (cleanmgr) to remove caches, temp files, and system clutter. Don't forget to empty the Recycle Bin using standard methods. Startup management and app removal can also be done with built-in tools (Settings or Task Manager). Together, these steps are enough to clean up Windows 11 without installing anything extra.

How do I delete temporary files in Windows?

The easiest way is with Windows' built-in tools. Press Win + R, type %TEMP%, and press Enter-this opens your user's temp folder. Select all files (Ctrl + A) and delete them. Some may be in use by running programs-just skip those. To clean the system temp folder, press Win + R again, type TEMP (or go to C:\Windows\Temp), and delete its contents. Alternatively, use Disk Cleanup: run the utility, choose drive C:, check 'Temporary files' (and others like 'Internet temp files', 'Thumbnails'), and confirm cleanup. In Windows 10/11, you can also go to Settings → System → Storage → Temporary Files for one-click removal. Regularly deleting temporary files frees up space and removes accumulated junk.

What are the best programs to use instead of CCleaner?

With CCleaner unavailable in some regions, users are looking for safe alternatives. Top programs for cleaning Windows include: BleachBit (free, open-source, cleans caches, temp files, etc.), Glary Utilities (a powerful suite with disk and registry cleaners, startup manager), Wise Disk Cleaner (specialized in disk junk removal), PrivaZer (deep system and privacy cleaning), and Advanced SystemCare Free. All are free and work with Windows 10 and 11. They automate cleanup, remove temp files from various apps, clear browser histories, and erase leftover files from uninstalled programs. Tip: Always download from official sites. Before first use, create a system restore point, just in case (though these tools are generally safe).

What's the best CCleaner alternative currently available?

The most commonly recommended CCleaner alternative is BleachBit. It's completely free, open-source, and covers all core CCleaner tasks (cleaning temp files, browser caches, logs, cookies, system junk, etc.). BleachBit is actively maintained, receives updates, and is available in multiple languages. Other strong options: Glary Utilities (broader functionality), Wise Care 365 Free (suite with disk, registry, and startup cleaners), and Ashampoo WinOptimizer Free. All work in regions where CCleaner is unavailable. Choose BleachBit for a lightweight, user-friendly utility that's closest to CCleaner in spirit and features, but doesn't collect telemetry or show ads.

How often should I clean junk from my computer?

Cleanup frequency depends on how intensively you use your PC. A thorough cleanup every 2-3 months is recommended. If you frequently handle large files or install/uninstall apps, monthly cleaning makes sense. Watch for signs: low space on drive C, sluggish program launches, or slow Windows startup mean it's time to clean up. Some users do light cleanups weekly (such as clearing browser cache and temp files)-this is good practice, especially on older or low-spec PCs. However, don't overdo it: daily registry or cache cleaning isn't necessary and may even cause issues. Once a month or as needed is optimal, and enabling automatic cleanup (Storage Sense) in Windows helps by removing temp files and emptying the Recycle Bin on a schedule.

Does cleaning the registry or using system optimizers speed up Windows?

In most cases, registry cleaning doesn't noticeably boost performance. The Windows registry may accumulate remnants from uninstalled programs and incorrect paths, but this rarely affects speed. Modern PCs and OS can handle large registries without delay. Aggressive optimizers and "tweakers" often have minimal or temporary effect, and careless registry cleaning or disabling system settings can cause instability (like apps refusing to launch). Focus on proven methods-disk cleanup, managing startup apps, updating drivers-instead of questionable "boosters." If you do want to clean the registry, use a reputable tool (like Wise Registry Cleaner) and always make a backup beforehand.