🧹 How to delete temporary files in Windows?

Sometimes your computer starts to run slower, programs take a long time to open and you don't understand why.

But there's a silent culprit behind it all: the temporary files.

Yes, those little digital leftovers that Windows accumulates over time and that, without realizing it, can fill entire gigabytes of your hard drive.

Cleaning them not only frees up space, but it can also speed up the operating systemeliminate errors and improve overall performance.

In this article you will learn how to delete temporary files in Windows step by step, with different methods and tricks that will make you feel like you have a brand new computer. 💻✨

🧠 What are temporary files in Windows?

The temporary files (also known as temp files) are data that the operating system or applications generate while working.

For example, when you edit an image, install a program or browse the Internet, Windows creates temporary copies to speed up the processes.

The problem is, when you no longer need them, does not always remove them automaticallyand over time can take up several gigabytes of unnecessary space.

👉 Bottom line:
Temporary files serve to speed up momentary tasksbut if you do not delete them on a regular basis, they can do just the opposite.

⚙️ Advantages of deleting temporary files

Deleting temporary files is not just about freeing up space.
The benefits go far beyond that, and you'll notice it from the first restart:

✅ Faster start-up speed.
✅ Lighter and faster programs.
✅ Fewer system errors.
✅ More free disk space.
✅ Increased privacybecause some temporary files contain browsing or usage data.

In other words, deleting these files is like giving your computer a deep cleaning insidesomething like a digital spa. 🧽💨

🧩 How to delete temporary files in Windows step by step

Below, I show you the most effective methods to delete temporary files, either manually or using built-in tools.

🧭 Method 1: Delete temporary files from "Run".

Press the keys Windows + R to open the Execute.
Write %temp% and press Enter.
A folder with all temporary files will open.
Select all (Ctrl + E) and press Supr o Delete.
If a file cannot be deleted, simply omit it.

💡 Tip: you can also write temp (without the % symbol) to access another similar folder where Windows stores more temporary files.

💾 Method 2: Using the "Disk Cleanup" tool.

In the Start menu, type Disk space frees up and open it.
Select the drive on which Windows is installed (usually C:).
Wait for the system to calculate the files that can be deleted.
Check the options Temporary files, Temporary Internet files, y Recycle Bin.
Click Accept and then Delete files.

🧠 Trick: if you press the "Clean up system files"If you have a Windows update, you will be able to remove even more digital junk, such as old Windows updates.

🧰 Method 3: Deleting temporary files from Settings

Open Configuration (Windows + I).
Go to System → Storage.
Activate the option Storage sensor.
Click on Temporary files and select what you want to delete.
Click Remove files.

💬 This method is very useful if you prefer a more visual and modern interface, especially in Windows 10 and Windows 11.

🧼 Method 4: Clear the Windows Update cache.

Updates also generate temporary files that can get "stuck".
To eliminate them:

Open the File Explorer and navigate to: C:\Windows Software Distribution Download
Deletes all the contents of that folder.
Restart the computer.

🚀 This will not affect your installed updates, but may free up several gigabytes of space.

🌐 Method 5: Use the "cleanmgr" or "storage sense" command.

If you like to do things fast, you can use commands:

Open Run (Windows + R).
Write cleanmgr and press Enter.
Select the drive and the type of files you want to delete.

Or:

Type in the search bar "Storage sensor"and let Windows run it automatically from time to time.

🕒 With this you will be able to. program automatic cleaningwithout worrying about doing it manually.

🧩 Summary table: Methods for deleting temporary files

Method	Difficulty	Main advantage	Ideal for
%temp% (Execute)	⭐ Easy	Fast and direct	Users who want to do it manually
Space liberator	⭐⭐ Media	Deep cleaning	Older equipment or equipment with limited space
Configuration → Storage	⭐⭐ Media	Modern interface	Windows 10 and 11
Delete Windows Update Cache	⭐⭐⭐⭐ Advanced	Recover lost gigabytes	Expert users
Automatic storage sensor	⭐ Very easy	Scheduled cleaning	Users who want to forget about it

🔐 Is it safe to delete temporary files?

Yes, deleting temporary files is completely safe.

These files are not essential for system operation and can be safely deleted.

However, do not delete system folders manually if you don't know what's in them.

It is always better to do it with the Windows tools or with recognized programs such as CCleaner o BleachBit.

🔄 How often should you delete temporary files?

It depends on the use you make of your computer, but one monthly cleaning is the most advisable.
If you work with many programs or browse constantly, you can even do it every week.

🗓️ Configures the Storage sensor to do it automatically.
This way you will never have to remember it again.

💬 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

❓Can I delete all temporary files without checking?

Yes, in general nothing happens.
If any program needs a temporary file, it will instantly recreate it.

❓What happens if I delete files from the system by mistake?

If you use only the official Windows methods, this will not happen.
The system is designed to protect critical files.

❓Are there any programs better than Windows tools?

Yes.
Programs such as CCleaner, BleachBit o Glary Utilities allow you to clean up temporary files, history and logs with one click.
But use only safe sources to download them.

❓Does deleting temps speed up games?

Not directly, but it does help the system perform better.
If your hard disk was full, you will notice less lag and shorter loading times.

🌟 Conclusion: your computer, like new.

Eliminate the temporary files in Windows is a simple, fast and extremely useful task.

It will allow you to recovering space, improving performance and extend the life of your equipment.

Make cleaning a digital habit.

Spend five minutes a month and your computer will thank you by running like the first day. 💪💻