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When downloading any file from websites to your computer, by default, the downloaded file is saved in the Downloads folder. Although you can change the download location, the Downloads folder remains the default download location on Windows 10/8/7. Not only on Windows 10 but also on all other versions, users can configure the feature to automatically delete downloaded files after saving them on the computer.
If you frequently download various software and files, the Downloads folder will gradually fill up. Since the Downloads folder is located in the C:\Users\UserName directory, you can delete unwanted files and programs in the Downloads folder to free up drive space.
In Windows 10 build 16199, Microsoft introduces a fresh option within Storage sense to automatically delete downloaded files from the Windows Downloads folder. Mytour showcased this feature in a guide on auto-cleaning Win 10 Creators Update hard drives. By default, the Win 10 hard drive cleanup option is disabled; when activated, it automatically removes unchanged files from the Downloads folder after 30 days. This implies the feature exclusively deletes files without any alterations within the last 30 days.
This option proves quite beneficial, especially for those who frequently download and install software. After program installation, the setup files in the Downloads folder become obsolete.
Below, find the steps to configure automatic deletion of files in the Downloads folder on Windows 10 after 30 days.
Automatically remove unused files in the Download folder on Windows 10
Important Reminder:
While this proves to be a useful option, bear in mind that Windows 10 automatically purges all files (not just programs, but any file) that remain untouched for 30 days. Consequently, you may find yourself at risk of losing crucial files.
If you have a tendency to store important files in the Download folder, it is advised against enabling the automatic deletion of unused files in the Download folder on Windows 10.
Step 1: Launch the Settings application, then navigate to System => Storage.
In Step 2: Within the Storage window, locate and slide the toggle for Storage sense to the ON position.
Now, onto Step 3: Click on the Change how we free up space link. Ensure that you have switched the Storage sense toggle to ON.
For Step 4: Set the status of the option Delete files in my Downloads folder that haven’t changed for over 30 days to ON.
You can deactivate the choices Delete temporary files that my apps aren’t using and Delete files that have been in the Recycle bin for over 30 days if you do not wish to automatically remove junk files from your hard drive.
Here's a handy guide on how to automatically clear files in the Download folder on Windows 10. This is perfect for users who frequently download programs or movies and tend to forget to delete them afterward. It helps keep your hard drive from getting cluttered, and it also speeds up your system's performance, including faster Windows 10 startup and shutdown times. If your computer holds a lot of data, this can significantly improve both the startup and shutdown speeds.
When using Windows 10, your operating system accumulates a considerable amount of junk files, causing your system to slow down over time. To clean up and remove junk files on Windows 10, there are various methods. Check out our article on cleaning up junk files on Windows 10 without using third-party software, where we guide you on speeding up your computer.
If you can schedule automatic deletion of downloaded files, what about the Recycle Bin? Microsoft supports an automatic file deletion feature for the Windows 10 Recycle Bin after 30 days, which can be incredibly useful. Interested in how to automatically delete files from the Windows 10 Recycle Bin after 30 days? Check out our guide for more information.
