Basic PC cleanup checklist

Keeping your PC clean and healthy

A little regular maintenance prevents most common slowdowns and errors.

• Empty temporary files. On Windows, press Win+R, type %temp%, and delete the files shown (skip any that are in use).
• Run Disk Cleanup (Windows) or use Storage Management (Mac) to remove system junk, old updates, and cached files.
• Uninstall unused programs. Go to Settings > Apps (Windows) or Applications folder (Mac) and remove software you no longer use.
• Clear browser cache and cookies periodically - this fixes many website loading issues too.
• Empty the Recycle Bin / Trash - deleted files still take up space until this is emptied.
• Restart weekly. Even if you use sleep/hibernate daily, a full restart clears memory leaks that build up over time.

Doing this monthly keeps most systems running smoothly without needing IT support.