SMALL STEPS. USEFUL SKILLS.
Free up space with Storage Sense
Review automatic cleanup before letting Windows remove files.
Use the pictures where shown. Follow the short instructions between them.
STEP 1 OF 6
Open Start
Select the Start button (the Windows logo) on the taskbar.
Prefer to see all the steps together?+
STEP 1
Open Start
Select the Start button (the Windows logo) on the taskbar.
STEP 2
Open Settings
Select Settings (the cog).
STEP 3
Open Storage
Settings opens on the System page. Select Storage.
If you see a Home page instead, select System on the left first.
STEP 4
Open Storage Sense
Under Storage management, select Storage Sense to see its cleanup options.
STEP 5
Choose what can be removed
Read the Recycle Bin and Downloads settings. Choose Never for anything you do not want cleared automatically.
A file being old does not mean you no longer need it. Check important files before changing these settings.
STEP 6
Enable the schedule you chose
Turn on automatic user content cleanup and choose when Storage Sense runs.
Online-only cloud files remain in your cloud account but need an internet connection to open. Storage Sense works on the Windows system drive.
IF SOMETHING LOOKS DIFFERENT
A little help along the way.
Your menus may look different after an update. Look for the same control name and take your time.
I cannot find that option+
Check that this guide covers your device and software. If the names do not match, use the manufacturer’s instructions linked below for your model.
I need to go back a step+
Use Previous step or select a step number above. This changes the guide only; it does not undo anything on your device.
Are these pictures of my device?+
They are example screens showing exactly where to click. Your names, apps, wallpaper and layout may look a little different, but the options you need are the same. Some pictures show what you should see after a step.