# Windows cleanup guide: what is safe to remove in Windows 10 and 11

Windows rarely runs out of space for a mysterious reason. A few categories account for most of it, and each has a safe way to check it. Use this page as the starting point and open the guide for the category you are looking at.

## Why Windows runs out of space

Space usually goes to a short list of things: apps and games, temporary files and caches, downloaded update data, the previous Windows installation after a big update, and your own large files such as videos. Knowing which category is largest tells you where to look.

## Step 1: find what is using the space

Start with Settings → System → Storage, then look for large files and folders. Our guide on finding large files shows four built-in ways, including a read-only PowerShell command. Do this before deleting anything.

## Step 2: the categories Windows itself cleans

Temporary files, thumbnails and cached update data can be removed from Settings → System → Storage → Temporary files or with Disk Cleanup. Read each entry before ticking it. Downloads and the Recycle Bin deserve a look first, because they hold your own files.

## Step 3: big items that need a decision

Windows.old (the previous Windows installation) can be large but removing it ends the option to go back. The WinSxS folder looks huge in File Explorer but is mostly shared files; it should be cleaned with supported tools only. Windows Update Cleanup removes superseded update files. Each of these has its own guide with the trade-offs.

## Step 4: keep a safety net

Before a major cleanup, make sure important files are backed up and that a restore point exists. Move large files you rarely use to an external drive instead of deleting them straight away.

## A short checklist

Check Storage settings. Review large files. Check Downloads. Review Temporary files. Review Windows.old. Run Disk Cleanup. Check Windows Update Cleanup. Review apps by size. Back up first.

## Where Rain Cleaner fits

Rain Cleaner (Windows 10/11, 64-bit) shows what it found, with an explanation for each item, before it removes anything. The Free version has no ads; Pro has a free 14-day trial (no card). Everything on this page works with Windows alone - Rain Cleaner is just another workflow.

## FAQ

**What is safe to delete when Windows runs out of space?**

Temporary files, thumbnails and cached update data are normally safe to remove. Downloads, the Recycle Bin and the previous Windows installation need a look first.

**Where do I start?**

Open Settings → System → Storage, see which category is largest, and then read the guide for that category.

**Does cleaning the disk make Windows faster?**

It gives Windows room to update and work. It does not by itself make the processor, graphics card or internet faster.

Source: https://raincleaner.eu/guides/windows-cleanup