Complete Manual C Drive Cleanup

Manual cleanup isn’t slow—just follow the flow.

• Prep: show hidden files and extensions to identify types.
• Path order:
  1. %TEMP%, C:\Windows\Temp;
  2. SoftwareDistribution\Download (stop update services first);
  3. Sort C:\Users\%USERNAME%\Downloads by size;
  4. Check UWP cache in AppData\Local\Packages;
  5. Empty Recycle Bin.
• Extra checks: look for recordings/screenshots in Videos/Pictures; large project archives in Documents.
• Optional automation: configure cleanmgr /sageset:1, then run cleanmgr /sagerun:1 later.
• Finish: reboot and confirm updates/drivers work and the drive color recovered.

Every step is visible and controllable—great for cautious users.

Home practice

When cleaning family PCs, ask which files they fear losing (photos, course materials); whitelist them first.

One-liner advice

Manual cleanup is about visibility—know the path, time, and size, then delete without panic.

Details

Check modified time; avoid deleting files from the last week. For unknown .log/.tmp, rename first, observe, then delete if no issues.

Further reading

• Data Protection Before C Drive Cleanup
• Settings to Avoid Accidental Deletion on C Drive
• Checklist for Low C Drive Space
• Lightweight Command-Line C Drive Cleanup
• Comprehensive C Drive Cleanup Guide