How to Keep Your Mac Hard Drive Clean and Tidy

Just like any other electronic device, Mac computers need to be maintained and got rid of clutters lodged in the hard disk drive regularly. Many times most of this muddle is caused by the accumulation of old and unwanted files, logs or programs that tend to stick around even after upgrading the operating system (OS).

Whilst your computer can continue operating with little or no signs of cluttering, it may also run out of space sooner than expected or slow down the overall performance of the system during backups, regular scanning or even while performing basic tasks. There is no reason to visit a Mac repairs service operator when such incidents could have been avoided all along hence the importance of performing regular cleaning tasks on your Mac.

Finding Clutter

Although there are many possible hide outs for unwanted files and programs, many tend to stick around the personal and system-wide Preferences (/Users/username/Library/Preferences and /Library/Preferences) folders which stores a ‘preference file’ whenever you download or run a new program. Another hot spot for unwanted files is the Application Support folders which could store redundant support files such as those created when items are dragged to the Trash folder.

Removing Clutter

Totally clearing out unwanted files could be a tricky task at times. There are a number of independent uninstallers in the market such as, AppZapper, CleanApp and Rutger Skupin’s Chipmunk, that can clear out unwanted files and programs including redundant support files described above, however, a complete back-up is recommended before using any removal utility. However, the more reliable option, while trying to remove unwanted programs, is to use the uninstallers that came with the application itself which can either be found in the program folders or original installation disc.

Talking Point

How do you get rid of clutter on your Mac or PC?