What is the Windows Temp folder & How to clean it

What is the Windows Temp folder?

The Windows Temp folder is a directory on your PC that is used to store temporary files, typically created during the installation of new software, and updates to existing software.

Why is it important that we clean it?

You should regularly delete temporary files to free up space, speed up your computer & reduce the risk of errors, bugs & crashes. It also contributes to your total disk space usage and effectively takes up storage you could otherwise use more effectively (like with images of cats, or screenshotted recipes).

How to clean it

  1. Press the Windows Key + R at the same time, this will bring up the run prompt.

   2. Type in the following exactly as written  %temp%

    3. Once the temp folder is open, use the shortcut "CTRL + A" to select all of the files.

    4. Press delete on your keyboard.

    5. You will be prompted "Are you sure you want to permanently delete these files? Press Enter.

Alternatively, you can use Windows built-in Disk Cleanup utility. 

     1. Press the Windows key

     2. Type in "Disk Cleanup"

    3. Press Enter

    4. Leave the default options selected

    5.  Press "OK"

    6. You will then be prompted "Are you sure you want to permanently delete these files? Press "Delete Files"

Folder Access Denied, you'll need permission to delete this folder.

1.  Select the toggle box “Do this for all current items”
2.  Press Skip
   
   
   
   

File in use - This action can't be completed because the file is in use.

1.  Select the toggle box “Do this for all current items”
2.  Press Skip