Forum Discussion
Can anyone suggest a good pc cleaning software for windows 10?
Hi everyone,
My Windows 10 PC has been feeling a bit sluggish lately. I want to clear out junk files, cache, and unnecessary background processes to see if I can improve performance. As far as I know, some older Windows 10 PC cleaner tools now have bloatware.
My main goals are:
- Safely removing temporary/junk files.
- Managing startup items.
- A tool that is lightweight and doesn't run too many background processes itself.
Are people still using third-party PC cleaning software for Windows 10? Is the official Microsoft PC Manager the good way to go now? I love to hear what you all are currently using to keep your systems clean.
Thanks!
9 Replies
- MunasianIron Contributor
Microsoft PC Manager is one of the best Windows 10 PC cleaning software.
- LuccaskIron Contributor
If you are finding a best PC cleaning software for Windows 10 and clear out junk files, cache, and unnecessary background processes to improve performance. Using Storage Sense on a Windows computer can be an effective way to improve performance by automatically clearing junk files, cache, and unnecessary background processes. Here's how it can help:
- Clears Junk Files and Temporary Data: As a PC cleaning software for Windows 10. Storage Sense deletes temporary files, system cache, and other unnecessary data that can accumulate over time and take up space.
- Removes Recycle Bin Items: It empties the Recycle Bin automatically, freeing up space.
- Clears Previous Windows Installations: If configured, it can delete old Windows files from updates, freeing up additional space.
- Optimizes Storage Management: Regularly running Storage Sense helps keep your disk organized and prevents clutter from slowing down your system.
Steps to Enable and Use Storage Sense:
1. Open Settings (Win + I).
2. Navigate to System > Storage.
3. Turn on Storage Sense.
4. Click on Configure Storage Sense or run it now.
5. Choose your preferences for automatic cleanup, including how often it runs and what files to delete.
6. You can also run Storage Sense manually at any time by clicking Run Storage Sense now.
- KennedyScottIron Contributor
If your PC feels slow to start, it's usually because too many programs are trying to open at once. In fact, you don't need to use any PC cleaning software in Windows 10.
To disable "Resource Hogs" (startup apps) on Windows 10, you can use several built-in methods. These apps are often the primary cause of slow boot times and high RAM usage immediately after logging in. If you prefer a more modern, toggle-based interface, use the Settings app.
- Open Startup Settings: Go to Settings > Apps > Startup.
- Toggle Off: Switch the toggle to Off for any application you want to stop from running at boot.
Note: This menu is great for quick cleaning but provides less technical data than the Task Manager.
Some apps don't show up in the lists above because they are launched via a shortcut in a specific system folder.
- Open the Folder: Press Windows Key + R, type shell:startup, and hit Enter.
- Clean Up: If you see any shortcuts here for programs you don't want starting up, simply delete the shortcut. This will not uninstall the program; it just stops it from auto-starting.
Warning: Only disable OneDrive if you do not use it for active file syncing.
Not sure what an app does? In the Task Manager Startup tab, right-click the name of any mysterious app and select "Search online." Windows will open a browser and tell you exactly what that process is.
Managing your startup applications is one of the most effective ways to boost Windows 10 performance without Windows 10 pc cleaner software. It targets the root cause of "system lag" by ensuring your CPU and RAM are focused on the tasks you are actually using, rather than background processes you’ve forgotten about.
By mastering this built-in method, you eliminate the need for "Always-On" optimization software that often consumes more resources than it saves. It is the cleanest, most transparent way to take control of your PC’s speed.
- OstarariIron Contributor
For a PC cleaning software for Windows 10 that uses Command Prompt or similar tools:
Basic Command Prompt Techniques
Delete Temporary Files Manually:
Open Command Prompt as administrator.
Run:del /q /f /s %TEMP%\*
This deletes temporary files in your user temp folder.
Similarly, clean system temp files:del /q /f /s C:\Windows\Temp\*
Clear Prefetch Files:
del /q /f /s C:\Windows\Prefetch\*
(Note: Clearing prefetch files can slightly impact startup performance.)
Flush DNS Cache:
ipconfig /flushdns
(Optional for network-related cleanup.)
Using PowerShell for More Options
Another PC cleaning software for Windows 10. PowerShell can offer more advanced cleaning scripts, but it still won't replace dedicated cleaning tools.
- NathanRodriguezIron Contributor
You can clean up Windows 10 without PC cleaning software as you are using the operating system's built-in tools designed specifically for its own architecture.
1. The "Ultimate" Cleanup: Storage Sense
This is the modern replacement for Disk Cleanup. It identifies junk files, old updates, and system logs that are safe to delete.
How to do it: Go to Settings > System > Storage.
Action: Click on Temporary files. Windows will scan your drive. Check everything except your "Downloads" folder (unless you want that cleared too), then click Remove files.
Pro Tip: Toggle the Storage Sense switch to "On" at the top of that menu to let Windows do this automatically in the future.
2. Deep System Cleanup (Legacy Tool)
The classic Disk Cleanup tool still has one "superpower": it can remove gigabytes of old Windows Update files that newer menus sometimes miss.
How to do it: Type "Disk Cleanup" in your Start menu search.
Action: When it opens, click the button that says "Clean up system files".
The Big Win: Look for "Windows Update Cleanup" or "Previous Windows installations." These can often be 5GB to 20GB in size. Check them and click OK.
3. Remove "Bloatware" and Unused Apps
Windows 10 often comes with pre-installed games or apps you never use.
How to do it: Go to Settings > Apps > Apps & features.
Action: Sort the list by Size. Scroll through and uninstall anything you haven't used in the last 6 months.
By following the tips above, you can speed up the computer without Windows 10 PC cleaner software. Let me know if you need more assistance!
- HouellebecqIron Contributor
BleachBit is a popular free and open-source PC cleaner for Windows 10 that can help you free up disk space and protect your privacy. It is effective for cleaning temporary files, cache, cookies, and other unnecessary data from various applications and system areas.
Pros of using BleachBit:
- Completely free and open-source as PC cleaner for Windows 10
- Supports cleaning a wide range of applications
- User-friendly interface
- Customizable cleaning options
- Privacy protection featuresHow to use BleachBit safely:
1. Download BleachBit from the official website.
2. Install and run it as an administrator.
3. Review the cleaning options and select the areas you want to clean.
4. Always consider backing up or reviewing what will be deleted before executing the cleaning process. - MichaelJacksonIron Contributor
Microsoft PC Manager is the best free PC cleaning software available on Windows 10.
Developed by Microsoft, this is the "official" way to clean your PC. It is highly recommended because it uses built-in Windows APIs, meaning it won't accidentally delete critical system files.
Key Features
PC Boost: A one-click button that flushes temporary files and terminates non-essential background processes to free up system RAM.
Deep Cleanup: Scans for system logs, web caches, and—most importantly—leftover Windows Update Cleanup files that can often take up several gigabytes of space.
Startup & Process Management: A simplified version of Task Manager that allows you to disable startup apps and end high-resource processes without leaving the app.
Pros
Safe and Native: Since it is made by Microsoft, it uses official Windows APIs. It is much less likely to delete a critical system file or break your OS compared to third-party "cleaners."
Completely Free: There are no "Pro" versions, hidden subscriptions, or locked features.
Zero Bloatware: Unlike many competitors, it does not bundle unwanted software or bombard you with ads for third-party products.
Cons
Redundancy: Almost every feature (except for the Pop-up Blocker and Toolbar) already exists elsewhere in Windows 10/11; it just puts them in one place.
Basic Depth: Power users may find the "Deep Cleanup" less thorough than specialized tools like BleachBit, which can scrub much deeper privacy traces.
Region Availability: While expanding, it is still officially distributed through a phased rollout, meaning users in some regions may need to download it directly or change store settings.
You can try this free PC cleaner for Windows 10 first. If it does not work as expected, then you can use other alternatives instead.
- AdrianPierceIron Contributor
Disk Cleanup is an excellent choice if you're looking for a free, built-in PC cleaner for Windows 10. It's lightweight, reliable, and doesn't require any additional downloads or installations. Here's what makes it a good option for your needs:
- Safety: Since it's a native Windows utility, it's safe and trusted.
- Functionality: It can safely remove temporary files, system cache, old Windows update files, and other unnecessary data that can slow down your PC.
- Ease of Use: It's straightforward—just run it, select what you want to clean, and let it do its job.
- No Background Bloat: It doesn't run in the background or add bloatware.
How to use Disk Cleanup on Windows 10:
1. Press Windows + S and type Disk Cleanup.
2. Select Disk Cleanup from the search results.
3. Choose the drive you want to clean (usually C:).
4. Wait for it to calculate the amount of space you can free.
5. Check the boxes for items you want to delete (e.g., Temporary files, Recycle Bin, Thumbnails).
6. Click OK and confirm.For more thorough cleaning, click Clean up system files after the initial scan. This includes old Windows update files and system logs. You can schedule regular disk cleanup or run it manually when needed. Such a best PC cleaner for Windows 10 !
- EmmaJohnsonIron Contributor
TotalAV System Tune-Up, one of the best PC cleaner software for Windows 10.
It is a highly effective choice for Windows 10 users because it combines robust system cleaning with professional-grade security. Its primary strength lies in its Smart Scan technology, which simultaneously identifies system junk, duplicate files, and performance-clogging startup programs alongside malware threats. By consolidating these tasks into a single interface, it simplifies maintenance for users who want to speed up their PC without juggling multiple specialized tools.
The software is particularly adept at reclaiming disk space by targeting hidden "digital rubbish" that Windows' native tools often overlook. Its Junk Cleaner and Duplicate Finder are designed to scan deep within system caches and application folders to remove gigabytes of unnecessary data. Additionally, its Application Uninstaller is more efficient than the standard Windows 10 uninstaller, allowing users to batch-remove unwanted programs and their leftover traces in just a few clicks.
Beyond simple file deletion, TotalAV enhances system responsiveness through its Startup Manager and Browser Cleanup tools. These features allow you to disable resource-heavy applications that launch automatically at boot, significantly reducing your computer's startup time.
Furthermore, by clearing out tracking cookies and cached browser data, this best PC cleaning software for Windows 10 not only speeds up your web surfing but also strengthens your privacy, making it a comprehensive "tune-up" solution rather than just a basic file deleter.