Say Goodbye to Other Storage: Simple Steps to Delete and Free Up Space on Mac

Say Goodbye to Other Storage: Simple Steps to Delete and Free Up Space on Mac
5 min read
25 October 2023

Is your Mac's storage space vanishing faster than you can say "hello"? If you've ever been baffled by the inscrutable "Other Storage" category, wondering how to delete it and liberate your precious disk space, you're not alone. Many Mac users have grappled with this enigma, seeking answers on how to delete Other Storage and reclaim that valuable space for more critical files and applications. In this comprehensive guide, we will demystify the concept of "Other Storage" and provide you with straightforward steps on how to delete it. Say farewell to Other Storage, and usher in a cleaner, faster, and more efficient Mac experience. Let's embark on your journey to free up space on your Mac by learning how to delete Other Storage.

Deciphering the "Other" Storage

Before we embark on our quest to delete the "Other" storage, let's uncover what it really is. The "Other" category encompasses a wide range of files that don't neatly fit into the standard classifications of documents, apps, music, photos, or videos. These files include system data, caches, temporary files, application support data, and more.

Over time, this "Other" storage can accumulate and seize a significant chunk of your Mac's storage capacity. Left unchecked, it can slow down your Mac and hinder your ability to manage your files efficiently.

Step 1: Assess Your Mac's Storage

The first step in our journey to reclaim storage is to understand the extent of the "Other" storage's occupation and how much space is available on your Mac. Here's how:

  1. Click on the Apple menu in the top-left corner of your screen.
  2. Select "About This Mac."
  3. Navigate to the "Storage" tab.

Here, you'll encounter a visual representation of your Mac's storage usage, including the "Other" category. Take note of the space consumed by "Other."

Step 2: Clear Cache and Temporary Files

A considerable portion of the "Other" storage comprises cache and temporary files generated by your Mac and various applications. To liberate your Mac from these files:

  1. Open Finder.
  2. Click "Go" in the menu bar and choose "Go to Folder..."
  3. Type in ~/Library/Caches and hit Enter.
  4. Select all the files and folders within the "Caches" directory and dispatch them to the Trash.

Repeat these steps for the ~/Library/Logs directory to bid farewell to log files. Be cautious to spare any vital system files.

Step 3: Tidy Up Your Downloads

Over time, your Downloads folder may have accumulated a plethora of superfluous files. Dive into your Downloads and remove any files you no longer require. Access your Downloads folder like so:

  1. Open Finder.
  2. Click on "Go" in the menu bar and pick "Downloads."
  3. Review and discard redundant files.

Step 4: Eliminate Bulky and Unnecessary Files

Identify and eliminate sizable files and applications that have overstayed their welcome on your Mac. Here's how:

  1. Open Finder.
  2. Click on "Go" in the menu bar and select "Home."
  3. Click "File" in the menu bar and pick "Find."
  4. Set the search parameters to "File Size" is "greater than" and specify a size (e.g., 1 GB).
  5. Assess the results and eliminate files you no longer require.

Moreover, sift through your Applications folder for apps that have outlived their usefulness and bid them adieu.

Step 5: Employ macOS Built-In Tools

macOS comes equipped with built-in tools to assist you in managing your storage effectively:

  • Optimize Storage: Navigate to Apple Menu > About This Mac > Storage > Manage. Here, you can activate "Optimize Storage" to automatically remove watched movies and TV shows after viewing.
  • Empty Trash Automatically: Configure your Mac to empty the Trash automatically after 30 days. Go to Apple Menu > About This Mac > Storage > Manage > Empty Trash Automatically.
  • Manage iCloud Storage: If you employ iCloud, optimize your Mac's storage by storing files in iCloud Drive and keeping only recently accessed files on your Mac.

Step 6: Explore Third-Party Cleaning Utilities

If you're still grappling with freeing up space, consider leveraging third-party cleaning utilities such as Macube Cleaner. These applications can identify and dispose of redundant files, duplicates, and other clutter.

Step 7: Reboot Your Mac

After undertaking these steps, give your Mac a fresh start by restarting it. This ensures all cached and temporary files are eradicated for good.

Conclusion

The process of reclaiming valuable storage space on your Mac by conquering the "Other" storage category is paramount to maintaining your computer's performance and ensuring you have ample room for your important files. By adhering to the steps outlined in this guide, you can reclaim the coveted space and keep your Mac operating at its best. Remember, periodic maintenance is key to preventing "Other" storage from becoming a space-hogging issue in the future. Bid adieu to the enigma of "Other" storage and revel in a cleaner, more efficient Mac experience. Your Mac's storage space is precious; make the most of it!

In case you have found a mistake in the text, please send a message to the author by selecting the mistake and pressing Ctrl-Enter.
Andrew Shon 87
Joined: 6 months ago
Comments (0)

    No comments yet

You must be logged in to comment.

Sign In / Sign Up