Summary

This guide helps you troubleshoot and resolve: How to Configure Windows 11 Storage Sense to Automatically Clean Up Temporary Files and Prevent Low Disk Space Errors. Follow the steps below to fix the issue.

Common Causes

How to Configure Windows 11 Storage Sense to Automatically Clean Up Temporary Files and Prevent Low Disk Space Errors

Running low on disk space can cause Windows 11 to slow down, prevent updates from installing, and trigger low disk space warnings. Windows 11 includes a built-in feature called Storage Sense that automatically frees up space by deleting temporary files, emptying the Recycle Bin, and clearing out old Downloads folder items on a schedule you control. This guide shows you how to configure Storage Sense so your computer stays clean without manual effort.

Configure Storage Sense

1. Open Settings.
2. Go to System > Storage.
3. Turn on Storage Sense.
4. Select Run Storage Sense and choose your preferred schedule.
5. Click Run Storage Sense now to clean up immediately.

Detailed Instructions

Open Storage Settings

1. Click the Start button and select Settings, or press Windows key + I.
2. In the left-hand menu, click System.
3. Click Storage on the right side.

Turn On Storage Sense

1. Locate the Storage Sense toggle switch.
2. Click the toggle to turn it On.

Configure the Cleanup Schedule

1. Click the arrow or text next to Storage Sense to expand its options.
2. Find the Run Storage Sense dropdown menu.
3. Choose one of the following options:

• Every day
• Every week
• Every month
• During low free disk space

Choose What to Delete

1. Under Temporary files, ensure the following options are selected as needed:

• Delete temporary files that my apps aren't using
• Empty the Recycle Bin (choose a timeframe such as 1, 14, 30, or 60 days)
• Delete files in my Downloads folder (choose a timeframe if you want older downloads removed automatically)

2. Under Locally available cloud content, select how long OneDrive files should remain on your device before becoming online-only.

Run a Manual Cleanup

1. Scroll to the bottom of the Storage Sense settings.
2. Click the Run Storage Sense now button.
3. Windows will scan your drive and remove eligible files. This may take a few minutes depending on how much data needs to be cleaned.

Troubleshooting

Storage Sense Option Is Missing

Storage Sense is available on supported versions of Windows 11. If you do not see the option:

• Ensure your system is updated by going to Settings > Windows Update > Check for updates.
• Restart your computer after installing updates.

Storage Sense Is Not Freeing Up Enough Space

If you still receive low disk space warnings:

• Open Settings > System > Storage and review the storage breakdown to see which categories are using the most space.
• Click Temporary files to manually select and remove additional items such as Windows update cleanup files and thumbnails.
• Consider moving large files, such as photos and videos, to an external drive. You can learn more in our guide on How to backup photos to external drive.

If you continue to experience low disk space errors after configuring Storage Sense, Open a Ticket with 220 Internet Services support for further assistance.

Still Having Issues?