Disk Cleanup is the classic Windows 10 tool for deleting temporary files, old update files and other clutter to free space. Storage Sense in Settings does similar work automatically. Windows 10 reached end of support on October 14, 2025. Consumer Extended Security Updates (ESU) now run until October 12, 2027.
Quick Answer
Search Start for Disk Cleanup, choose the C drive, check the file types to delete, and click Clean up system files for more options. Click OK, then Delete Files.
How to Run Disk Cleanup on Windows 10
- Type Disk Cleanup in the Start search box and open it (or press Windows and R, type cleanmgr and press Enter).
- Choose drive C and click OK.
- Check the categories to delete, such as Temporary files and Recycle Bin.
- Click Clean up system files to include Windows Update Cleanup and previous installations.
- Choose drive C again and check the extra categories.
- Click OK, then Delete Files.
What Disk Cleanup Removes
| Category | Safe to delete? |
|---|---|
| Temporary files | Yes |
| Recycle Bin | Yes, if you do not need the files |
| Windows Update Cleanup | Yes; you cannot uninstall those updates afterward |
| Previous Windows installation | Only if you will not roll back |
| Downloads folder | Check first; it holds your files |
Troubleshooting
- Disk Cleanup is slow: Windows Update Cleanup can take a while. Let it finish.
- Space barely changes: use Settings, System, Storage to find large apps and files.
- Previous installation not listed: it is removed automatically after the rollback period.
- More ways to free space: how to clean up Windows 10 and how to delete the Windows.old folder.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Disk Cleanup safe?
Yes, for the default categories. Check Downloads before ticking it.
Is Disk Cleanup being removed?
Microsoft recommends Storage Sense, but Disk Cleanup still works.
Can I schedule it?
Use Storage Sense for automatic cleanup.
Does it work on Windows 11?
Yes, it is still available.
Summary
- Open Disk Cleanup.
- Choose drive C.
- Check file types.
- Clean up system files.
- Delete Files.
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.