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Is Your Mac Running Low on Disk Space? Here’s How to Delete Unnecessary Files

If you’re a Mac user, you may have encountered the frustrating message that your disk space is running low. This can be a common issue, especially if you have a Mac with limited storage capacity. But fear not, because, in this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through various methods to free up disk space on your Mac and delete unnecessary files. Whether using Mac OS Monterey or an earlier version, we’ve got you covered.

Checking Your Storage Space

Before we dive into the tips and tricks to clear disk space on your Mac, it’s essential to understand how to check your storage space. By knowing what’s taking up space on your Mac, you can target specific areas for cleanup.

Method 1: macOS Monterey

If you’re using macOS Monterey, follow these steps to check your storage space:

  1. Click on the Apple icon in the top-left corner of your screen.
  2. Select “System Settings” from the drop-down menu.
  3. Click on the “General” tab.
  4. Under the “Storage” section, you’ll see an overview of your disk usage.

Method 2: Earlier macOS Versions

For those using an earlier version of macOS, here’s how you can check your storage space:

  1. Click on the Apple icon in the top-left corner of your screen.
  2. Select “About This Mac” from the drop-down menu.
  3. Click on the “More Info” button.
  4. In the new window, click on “Storage” to view your disk usage information.

Understanding Storage Recommendations

Now that you know how to check your storage space, let’s explore the built-in tools and recommendations Apple provides to help you optimize your disk usage.

Method 1: macOS Monterey Recommendations

If you’re using macOS Monterey, follow these steps to access Apple’s storage management recommendations:

  1. After checking your storage space using the abovementioned steps, scroll down to the “Recommendations” section.
  2. Apple provides several options to optimize your storage. Let’s explore each recommendation in detail.

Store in iCloud

Enabling this option allows you to store your files, videos, messages, and photos saved on your Desktop and Documents folder to your iCloud Drive. This helps free up local storage space while keeping your files accessible whenever needed.

To enable “Store in iCloud”:

  1. Click on the “Store in iCloud” option.
  2. Configure the settings to choose which files and folders you want to store in iCloud.
  3. Click on the “Store in iCloud” button to confirm your selection.

Optimize Storage

Enabling this option automatically removes watched Apple TV movies and shows to free up space. It also keeps only recent email attachments, saving you valuable storage space.

To enable “Optimize Storage”:

  1. Click on the “Optimize” option.
  2. Review the settings and click the “Optimize” button to confirm your selection.

Empty Bin Automatically

Enabling this option ensures that items stored in your Trash bin for more than 30 days are automatically deleted. This helps prevent your Trash from consuming unnecessary storage space.

To enable “Empty Bin Automatically”:

  1. Click on the “Turn On” button next to “Empty Bin Automatically.”
  2. Confirm your action by clicking the “Turn On” button again.

Method 2: Earlier macOS Versions Recommendations

For those using earlier macOS versions, you can still optimize your storage space with Apple’s recommendations. Here’s how:

  1. After checking your storage space using the steps mentioned above, take note of the different categories shown in the storage overview.
  2. Let’s explore each category and the actions you can take to free up space.

Deleting Unnecessary Files

Now that you’re familiar with Apple’s storage recommendations, let’s delve into various methods to delete unnecessary files and free up disk space on your Mac.

Method 1: Clean Your Downloads Folder

Your Downloads folder can quickly become cluttered, filled with files you no longer need. By cleaning up this folder, you can reclaim a significant amount of storage space. Here’s how:

  1. Open Finder on your Mac.
  2. Click on “Downloads” in the sidebar.
  3. Sort the files by size to identify the largest ones.
  4. Select the files you no longer need and move them to the Trash.
  5. Empty the Trash to delete the files permanently.

Method 2: Remove System Junk

Over time, your Mac accumulates system junk, including cache files, system logs, temporary files, and unused folders. Clearing this clutter can free up substantial storage space and optimize your Mac’s performance.

While you can manually search for and delete system junk files, using a third-party tool like CleanMyMac X can make the process much easier and more efficient. CleanMyMac X’s System Junk module scans your Mac for various types of system clutter and allows you to remove them with just a few clicks.

To remove system junk using CleanMyMac X:

  1. Download and install CleanMyMac X from the official website.
  2. Open CleanMyMac X and navigate to the “System Junk” module.
  3. Click on the “Scan” button to initiate the scanning process.
  4. Once the scan is complete, review the identified system junk files.
  5. Click the “Clean” button to remove the selected system junk and free up disk space.

Method 3: External Storage

If you have a large photo or video library consuming a significant amount of space on your Mac, consider moving these media files to an external storage device. This can help free up valuable disk space while keeping your files easily accessible.

To move your photo or video library to an external storage device:

  1. Connect the external storage device to your Mac.
  2. Open Finder and navigate to your current photo or video library.
  3. Drag the library to the external storage device while holding the Command key.
  4. Wait for the transfer to complete.
  5. Once the transfer is finished, you can access your photo or video library from the external storage device.

Method 4: Uninstall Unused Applications

Unused applications take up valuable storage space and affect your Mac’s performance. Uninstalling applications you no longer use can free up disk space and streamline your Mac’s operation.

To uninstall unused applications:

  1. Open Finder and navigate to the “Applications” folder.
  2. Locate the application you want to uninstall.
  3. Drag the application to the Trash.
  4. Empty the Trash to delete the application and its associated files permanently.

Method 5: Delete Old Mail Attachments

If you use the Mail application on your Mac, old mail attachments can accumulate over time, occupying significant storage space. Removing these attachments can free up disk space and improve the performance of the Mail app.

To delete old mail attachments:

  1. Open the Mail application.
  2. Select a mailbox or folder where you want to locate mail attachments.
  3. Sort the messages by size to identify the largest attachments.
  4. Select the messages with attachments you want to delete.
  5. Right-click on the selected messages and choose the option to remove attachments.
  6. Repeat the process for other mailboxes or folders.

Additionally, you can adjust the Mail app’s settings to prevent the automatic downloading of attachments, further conserving disk space.

Conclusion and Call to Action

In conclusion, if your Mac is running low on disk space, it’s crucial to take action to optimize your storage and delete unnecessary files. Following the methods outlined in this guide can free up valuable disk space, improve your Mac’s performance, and ensure a smooth computing experience.

If you need further assistance with your Mac or want professional help optimizing your storage space, consider contacting iStoreSTM, a reputable Mac service provider in New York, Englewood. They offer reliable Macbook services and can help you address any storage-related issues you may be facing. Visit their website at iStoreSTM.com to learn more and schedule an appointment.

Remember, a well-maintained and optimized Mac provides a better user experience and prolongs your device’s lifespan. Take control of your disk space today and enjoy a clutter-free Mac experience.