How to Delete Temp Files in Windows 10: A Step-by-Step Guide

Is your Windows 10 computer running slower than usual? Do you notice that your disk space is mysteriously shrinking over time? One of the most common causes of these issues is the buildup of temporary files (temp files).

Fortunately, there’s an easy fix — you can delete temp files in Windows 10 safely and reclaim valuable storage space. In this complete step-by-step guide, you’ll learn what temp files are, why they matter, and how to remove them using different methods — from built-in tools to advanced cleanup utilities.

Let’s dive in!

---

🔍 Summary: Key Takeaways

---

💡 What Are Temporary Files in Windows 10?

Temporary files (often stored with the .tmp extension) are files that Windows and your applications create to store short-term data.

For example:

• When you install software, Windows stores setup data temporarily.

• When you browse the web, browsers cache temporary internet files.

• When editing documents or videos, apps like Word or Photoshop store autosave versions.

Once the task is done, these files should ideally be deleted — but they often accumulate over time, eating up gigabytes of storage.

---

⚠️ Why Should You Delete Temp Files Regularly?

Deleting temporary files is like giving your PC a quick health check. Here’s why it matters:

• 🧹 Frees Up Disk Space: Old update logs, system caches, and browser data can easily consume several GBs.

• ⚡ Boosts Performance: A clutter-free disk helps Windows run faster and more efficiently.

• 🛠️ Prevents System Errors: Too many temp files can cause crashes, lag, and slow boot times.

• 🔒 Protects Privacy: Some temp files may contain sensitive data like browsing history or cache logs.

In short — cleaning temp files = smoother performance + more storage.

---

🧭 How to Delete Temp Files in Windows 10 (6 Safe Methods)

Let’s go step by step through the most effective and safe ways to delete temporary files on Windows 10.

---

🖥️ Method 1: Delete Temp Files Using Disk Cleanup

The Disk Cleanup tool is a built-in Windows utility designed specifically to remove unnecessary files.

Steps:

1. Press Windows + S and type Disk Cleanup.

2. Select the C: drive (or your main Windows drive).

3. Click OK — it will scan your system for junk files.

4. Check the boxes next to:

   • Temporary files

   • Recycle Bin

   • Delivery Optimization Files

   • Temporary Internet Files

   • Windows Update Cleanup

5. Click OK, then Delete Files.

💡 Tip: Click Clean up system files to remove deeper system-level temporary files — this can free up several GBs.

---

⚙️ Method 2: Delete Temp Files Using Run Command

The Run command provides direct access to Windows’ temporary file folders.

Steps:

1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog.

2. Type %temp% and press Enter.

3. A folder will open showing all your temporary files.

4. Press Ctrl + A to select everything.

5. Press Shift + Delete to permanently remove them.

6. Confirm the action if prompted.

You can also repeat the process with these commands:

• Type temp (without % signs) and press Enter

• Type prefetch and press Enter

⚠️ Note: Some files may be in use and can’t be deleted — just skip those.

---

🧹 Method 3: Use Storage Sense (Automatic Cleanup)

Storage Sense is a smart Windows 10 feature that automatically deletes temporary files at regular intervals.

Steps:

1. Open Settings → System → Storage.

2. Turn on Storage Sense.

3. Click Configure Storage Sense or run it now.

4. Choose:

   • When to run (daily, weekly, or monthly)

   • How to delete temporary files

   • Whether to remove Recycle Bin and Downloads data

🧠 Pro Tip: Set Storage Sense to run every week — it keeps your system tidy without manual work.

---

🗑️ Method 4: Manually Clear the Windows Temp Folder

If you prefer hands-on cleaning, you can manually remove files from Windows’ system temp directory.

Steps:

1. Press Windows + R, type:

   C:\Windows\Temp


2. Press Enter.

3. Select all files (Ctrl + A) and press Shift + Delete.

4. Confirm deletion.

⚙️ Tip: You might need admin privileges to delete certain files.

---

💻 Method 5: Clear Temporary Files Using Settings App

Windows 10’s Settings app provides an easy visual way to delete temp files.

Steps:

1. Go to Settings → System → Storage.

2. Click on your system drive (C:).

3. Scroll down and select Temporary files.

4. Check the boxes for:

   • Temporary files

   • Thumbnails

   • Delivery Optimization files

   • Windows Update Cleanup

5. Click Remove files.

This method is simple and doesn’t require extra tools.

---

🧰 Method 6: Use Third-Party Tools (Optional but Powerful)

If you want an even deeper clean, third-party software can help remove hidden caches and redundant files.

Popular Tools:

⚠️ Warning: Always download from official websites to avoid malware.

---

📊 Comparison: Built-in Tools vs. Third-Party Cleaners

---

⚡ Bonus: Clear Temporary Internet and Cache Files

While deleting Windows temp files helps, browsers also store temporary data. Let’s clean those too.

For Google Chrome:

1. Click Menu (⋮) → Settings → Privacy and security.

2. Click Clear browsing data.

3. Select Cached images and files and Cookies.

4. Choose All time → Clear data.

For Microsoft Edge:

1. Open Settings → Privacy, search, and services.

2. Click Choose what to clear.

3. Select Cached images/files and Temporary data.

For Firefox:

1. Open Options → Privacy & Security.

2. Under Cookies and Site Data, click Clear Data.

---

🧠 How Often Should You Delete Temp Files?

It depends on your computer usage:

💡 Pro Tip: Schedule Storage Sense weekly to handle this automatically.

---

🧮 How Much Space Can You Free by Deleting Temp Files?

Depending on your usage, you can free anywhere between:

• 💾 2–10 GB (typical users)

• 🎮 15–30 GB (gamers and editors)

• 🧰 Up to 50 GB+ (after updates or large installations)

---

🧩 What Happens If You Don’t Delete Temp Files?

If left unchecked, temp files can cause:

• Slower startup and app launch times

• Low disk space warnings

• Windows Update failures

• Lag and overheating (due to heavy disk usage)

Deleting them is completely safe — Windows will recreate new temp files as needed.

---

🧠 Advanced: Use Command Prompt or PowerShell to Delete Temp Files

If you’re comfortable using commands, you can automate temp file cleanup.

Command Prompt:

1. Type cmd in the search bar → Run as Administrator.

2. Enter:

   del /q/f/s %TEMP%\*


3. Press Enter.

PowerShell:

1. Open PowerShell as administrator.

2. Enter:

   Remove-Item -Path $env:TEMP\* -Recurse -Force


This will silently delete all temp files without opening folders manually.

---

🛠️ Troubleshooting: Can’t Delete Some Temp Files?

Sometimes, Windows won’t let you delete certain files because they’re in use. Here’s how to handle it:

Fixes:

• Close all running applications.

• Reboot your PC and try again.

• Use Safe Mode for stubborn files.

• Use tools like Unlocker or IObit Unlocker (carefully).

⚠️ Note: Never delete files inside C:\Windows\System32 — they’re essential for Windows operation.

---

🔧 Automation Tip: Create a Batch File to Clean Temp Files

Want a one-click cleanup solution? Create a batch script.

Steps:

1. Open Notepad.

2. Paste this:

   @echo off
del /q/f/s %TEMP%\*
del /q/f/s C:\Windows\Temp\*
pause


3. Save it as cleantemp.bat.

4. Right-click → Run as Administrator.

Now you can clean temp files anytime with one double-click.

---

💻 Before and After: The Impact of Cleaning Temp Files

Deleting temporary files may not make your PC brand-new — but it definitely speeds up performance and prevents sluggishness.

---

🧾 Conclusion: Keep Your PC Clean and Fast

Now you know how to delete temp files in Windows 10, step by step.
Regular cleanup not only helps reclaim storage space but also ensures that Windows performs smoothly and stays error-free.

Quick Recap:

• Use Disk Cleanup or Settings → Storage for easy cleanup.

• Use Run commands (%temp%, temp, prefetch) for manual control.

• Enable Storage Sense for automatic maintenance.

• Clean your browser cache regularly for extra space.

A clean PC is a happy PC — take a few minutes every week to tidy up those temp files and enjoy faster, smoother performance!

---

❓ FAQs: How to Delete Temp Files in Windows 10

1. Is it safe to delete temp files in Windows 10?

Yes — it’s completely safe. Windows and apps will recreate temp files when needed.

2. Can deleting temp files cause problems?

No. Temporary files don’t contain essential system data. Just avoid deleting files in System32.

3. How often should I delete temp files?

Once every 2–4 weeks is ideal, depending on usage.

4. Why can’t I delete some temp files?

They may be in use by running programs. Close apps or reboot before retrying.

5. How do I automatically delete temp files?

Enable Storage Sense in Settings → System → Storage and set it to run automatically.

---

✅ Final Tip:
Set a reminder or let Storage Sense handle it — keeping temp files under control ensures your PC stays fast, clean, and efficient for years.