How To Delete Temp Files In Windows 11: A Step-by-Step Guide

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5 min. read

Published on November 10, 2025

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Temporary files are created by Windows 11 and the applications you use to store information temporarily. While these files are essential for smooth operation, they can accumulate over time, consuming valuable storage space and potentially impacting your computer’s performance. Regularly deleting these temp files is a good practice to keep your system running efficiently.

This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step approach to safely and effectively delete temporary files in Windows 11, reclaiming storage space and optimizing your system’s speed. We’ll cover various methods, from using the built-in Storage Sense to manually deleting files, ensuring you have the tools you need to maintain a clean and responsive Windows 11 experience.

Want to Clean Up Your PC? Here’s How to Remove Temp Files in Windows 11

Using Storage Sense to Automatically Delete Temp Files

Storage Sense is a built-in Windows 11 feature that can automatically delete temporary files and manage storage space. Here’s how to configure it:

Open the Settings app. You can do this by pressing the Windows key + I.
Click on System.
Select Storage.
Toggle the Storage Sense switch to the On position.
Click on Storage Sense to configure its settings.
Under Run Storage Sense, choose how often you want Storage Sense to run (e.g., Daily, Weekly, Monthly).
Check the box next to Delete temporary files that apps aren’t using.
Optionally, you can also choose to delete files in your Recycle Bin after a certain period.
Click the Run Storage Sense now button to immediately clean up temp files.

Manually Deleting Temp Files via the Run Dialog

This method allows you to directly access the temporary files folder and delete its contents.

Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box.
Type %temp% and press Enter. This will open the Temp folder in File Explorer.
Select all files and folders within the Temp folder by pressing Ctrl + A.
Press the Delete key or right-click and select Delete.
If you encounter a “File in Use” error, select Do this for all current items and click Skip. Some temporary files may be in use by running applications.

Deleting Temporary Internet Files

Temporary Internet Files, also known as browser cache, can also take up significant space. Here’s how to delete them in Microsoft Edge:

Open Microsoft Edge.
Click the three dots (Settings and more) in the top-right corner.
Go to Settings.
Select Privacy, search, and services.
Under Clear browsing data, click Choose what to clear.
In the Time range dropdown, select All time.
Check the boxes next to Cached images and files and Cookies and other site data. You can also choose to clear other browsing data if desired.
Click the Clear now button.

Using Disk Cleanup to Remove Temporary Files

Disk Cleanup is a classic Windows tool that helps remove various types of unnecessary files, including temporary files.

Type Disk Cleanup in the Windows search bar and press Enter.
Select the drive you want to clean (usually the C: drive) and click OK.
In the Disk Cleanup window, check the box next to Temporary files.
Optionally, you can also check other categories like Recycle Bin, Temporary Internet Files, and Thumbnails to free up even more space.
Click OK and then Delete Files to confirm.

Tips for Maintaining a Clean System

Schedule Regular Cleanups: Use Storage Sense or Disk Cleanup regularly to prevent temporary files from accumulating.
Close Unnecessary Programs: Closing programs you’re not using can prevent them from creating more temporary files.
Keep Your System Updated: Windows updates often include optimizations that can improve performance and reduce the creation of unnecessary files.
Empty Your Recycle Bin: Remember to empty your Recycle Bin regularly, as deleted files still take up space until they are permanently removed.

Keeping Your Windows 11 Clean and Efficient

Deleting temporary files in Windows 11 is a simple yet effective way to maintain your system’s performance and free up valuable storage space. By using the methods outlined above, you can easily remove these unnecessary files and ensure your computer runs smoothly.

FAQ

What happens if I delete all the files in the Temp folder?

Deleting the files in the Temp folder is generally safe and won’t harm your system. Windows and applications will recreate necessary temporary files as needed.

How often should I delete temporary files?

It depends on your usage, but a good practice is to delete temporary files at least once a month, or more frequently if you notice performance issues.

Can deleting temporary files improve my computer’s performance?

Yes, deleting temporary files can improve performance by freeing up storage space and reducing clutter on your system.

Is it safe to use third-party cleanup tools?

While some third-party cleanup tools can be helpful, it’s important to choose reputable ones and exercise caution, as some may contain malware or adware. The built-in Windows tools are generally the safest option.

Why can’t I delete some temporary files?

Some temporary files may be in use by running applications. Close the applications and try again, or skip those files during the deletion process.

Choosing the Right Method for Deleting Temp Files

Here’s a comparison of the methods discussed above to help you choose the best one for your needs:

Method	Automation Level	User Effort	Control Over Files	Best For
Storage Sense	High	Low	Limited	Users who want automatic, hands-off cleanup
Run Dialog	Low	High	High	Users who want precise control over deleted files
Disk Cleanup	Medium	Medium	Medium	Users who want to clean up various file types
Browser Settings	Low	Medium	High	Users who want to clear browser-specific temp files