Running out of space on your Windows C drive can slow down your system, prevent updates, and even cause software crashes. If your C drive is full, it’s time to clear out unnecessary junk and free up space. This guide walks you through safe and effective steps to clean up your system manually—without installing third-party tools.

⚠️ Disclaimer: This guide involves deleting files from your system. Please proceed with caution. Do not delete any files you are unsure about. These steps are safe when followed properly but we recommend backing up important data before proceeding.

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🪟 Step 1: Clear the Software Distribution Folder

Windows stores old update files in the SoftwareDistribution folder, which can take up significant space.

Instructions:

1. Open File Explorer.
2. Navigate to: This PC > Local Disk (C:) > Windows > SoftwareDistribution > Download
3. Select all files in the Download folder.
4. Press Shift + Delete to permanently delete them.

These files are safe to delete as they contain temporary update data from previous Windows updates.

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🧼 Step 2: Clear the Temp Folder

The %temp% directory stores temporary files used by apps and Windows.

Instructions:

1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog.
2. Type %temp% and press Enter.
3. Select all files in the folder using Ctrl + A.
4. Press Shift + Delete to permanently remove them.

Some files may not delete if they are currently in use; skip those.

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🧹 Step 3: Clear the Temp Folder Again (Second Location)

There is another temporary files location.

Instructions:

1. Open the Run dialog again (Windows + R).
2. Type temp and press Enter.
3. Again, select all files and use Shift + Delete to remove them.

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🗃 Step 4: Clear Prefetch Files

Prefetch files help Windows load apps faster but can become outdated.

Instructions:

1. Open the Run dialog (Windows + R).
2. Type prefetch and hit Enter.
3. Select all files and delete them with Shift + Delete.

You may need administrative permission to access this folder.

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🧽 Step 5: Run Disk Cleanup Utility

Windows comes with a built-in tool called Disk Cleanup.

Instructions:

1. Open the Run dialog (Windows + R).
2. Type cleanmgr and press Enter.
3. Choose your C drive and click OK.
4. Check all boxes (like Temporary files, System created Windows Error Reporting, Recycle Bin, etc.).
5. Click OK and then Delete Files.

This will clear a variety of cached and unused files safely.

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🏬 Step 6: Reset Microsoft Store Cache

The Microsoft Store also stores cache files that can take up space.

Instructions:

1. Open the Run dialog (Windows + R).
2. Type wsreset and press Enter.

A black command prompt window may appear briefly. This process clears the Microsoft Store cache.

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🧩 Step 7: Uninstall Unused Programs

Unused applications can consume a lot of C drive space.

Instructions:

1. Open the Run dialog (Windows + R).
2. Type appwiz.cpl and press Enter.
3. This opens the Programs and Features window.
4. Go through the list and uninstall programs you no longer use by selecting them and clicking Uninstall.

Be careful not to remove essential system programs or drivers.

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📂 Step 8: Clean Up Your Downloads and Personal Folders

Downloaded files often pile up without notice.

Instructions:

1. Open File Explorer.
2. Go to folders like:
   • Downloads
   • Documents
   • Pictures
   • Videos
   • Music
3. Review and delete unnecessary files.
4. Use Shift + Delete for permanent deletion.

Repeat this for each folder and delete unused installers, duplicate photos, old videos, and other large files.

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✅ Summary of Commands Used

Command	Use
%temp%	Clear temporary app files
temp	Clear Windows-level temp files
prefetch	Clear app launch cache
cleanmgr	Disk cleanup
wsreset	Clear Microsoft Store cache
appwiz.cpl	Manage installed programs

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🛡 Recommended Software Tools (Optional)

While this article focuses on manual cleanup, here are some tools for automated cleaning:

• CCleaner
• BleachBit
• Storage Sense (Built-in Windows tool)

Use these with caution and always review files before deleting.

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🏷 Tags:

windows c drive full, free up disk space windows, software distribution cleanup, windows temp folder, windows disk cleanup, delete junk files windows, uninstall unused programs, free up memory windows, speed up pc, windows maintenance

🔖 Hashtags:

#WindowsTips #DiskCleanup #FreeUpSpace #CDriveFull #WindowsMaintenance #TechGuide #StorageCleanup #PCPerformance #SystemCleaner

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Emily Carter

Emily is a Windows power user and technical writer from the UK. She has spent 7+ years in IT consulting, helping businesses migrate to new Windows versions, optimize performance, and solve common errors. Emily’s articles combine professional experience with step-by-step clarity, making even registry hacks accessible to everyday users.

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