With system cleanup apps like CCleaner being popular for years, it was about time Microsoft added more cleaning features to Windows 10. For example, the latest Windows 10 Insider build (16199) we have the option to clean up Downloads folder automatically in Windows 10.
Each user account on your Windows system has a preset Downloads folder, that’s set to be the default download location for most web browser apps. If you download a lot of stuff from the web, the Downloads folder can quickly get out of control.
Luckily, Windows 10’s Storage Sense function has a new feature which can automatically clean up the Downloads folder.
How to clean up Downloads folder automatically in Windows 10
Open the Settings app and navigate to System -> Storage. Locate the link called “Change how we free up space” and click on it.
Open Settings app, go to System > Storage and click “Change how we free up space” link.
Starting with Windows 10 Insider build 16199, this menu has a new option called “Delete files in my Downloads folder that haven’t changed for over 30 days”. Toggle on the switch right under this option and you’re good to go!
From then on, files stored in the Downloads folder which are older than30 days will be automatically deleted. It would certainly be useful if Microsoft decides to add some more frequency options but until then we just need to make do with what we already have.
Additionally, if you need to quickly free up some space you can try using the “Clean now” button.
As I already mentioned, keep in mind this is a new feature that was added starting with Windows 10 build 16199 that’s currently available for those enrolled in the Insider program. As a result, if you don’t have it in your Settings app you will need to wait until it’s released in a future update or join the Windows Insider program.
