How to free up disk space on Windows 11

2 min read · 5 steps · Updated 2 October 2026

When the C: drive is nearly full, Windows slows down and updates fail. The Storage page shows what is using the space and removes the safe-to-delete parts in a few clicks.

These steps are for Windows 11. The pictures are simplified diagrams of the Settings window, not screenshots, so colours and spacing on your PC look a little different.

Step by step

1. Open Settings and choose System

   Press Windows + I to open Settings. System is the first entry on the left.

   Done

2. Click Storage

   Windows takes a moment to add up what is on the drive, then shows bars for Apps, Temporary files, Documents and more.

   Done

3. Open Cleanup recommendations

   Tick the items you want to remove: Temporary files, the Recycle Bin, large or unused files and apps you have not opened. Check the Downloads box only if you no longer need what is in that folder. Then click Clean up.

   Done

4. Remove temporary files

   Go back and click Temporary files. Windows Update Cleanup and Delivery Optimisation Files are often several gigabytes and safe to remove. Click Remove files.

   Done

5. Switch on Storage Sense

   Storage Sense empties the Recycle Bin and clears temporary files on a schedule. Switch it on, then click it to choose how often it runs.

   Done

Good to know

The biggest savings usually come from apps and games. Click Installed apps, sort by size, and uninstall what you do not use.

If you use OneDrive, right-click a folder and choose Free up space. The files stay online and download again when you open them.

Do not delete files inside the Windows or Program Files folders by hand. Use the tools above.

In short: Settings, System, Storage. Run Cleanup recommendations, clear Temporary files and switch on Storage Sense.