How to turn on Storage Sense on Windows 11

2 min read · 6 steps · Updated 2 October 2026

Storage Sense is Windows' own cleaner. It deletes temporary files and empties the Recycle Bin by itself, so that the drive does not fill up unnoticed. It is switched off by default and works on the system drive, usually C:.

These steps are for Windows 11. The pictures are simplified diagrams of the Settings window, not screenshots, so colours and spacing on your PC look a little different.

Step by step

1. Open Settings, System, Storage

   Press Windows + I and click Storage. Windows shows what is using the space.

   Done

2. Switch on Storage Sense

   With the default settings it runs when the PC is low on disk space.

   Done

3. Click Storage Sense to open its options

   Under Run Storage Sense, choose Every day, Every week, Every month or During low free disk space.

   Done

4. Set the Recycle Bin

   Under Delete files in my recycle bin if they have been there for over, choose a number of days. After that time, deleted files are gone for good.

   Done

5. Decide about the Downloads folder

   Delete files in my Downloads folder if they haven't been opened for more than is set to Never by default. Leave it on Never if you keep things in Downloads that you still need.

   Done

6. Run it once now

   Click Run Storage Sense now at the bottom of the page to clean up straight away.

   Done

Good to know

If you use OneDrive, Storage Sense can also turn files you have not opened for a while into online-only files. They stay visible and download again when you open them. Files marked Always keep on this device are never touched.

Storage Sense only runs when you have been signed in and online for more than ten minutes.

For a one-off clear-out with more options, see how to free up disk space on Windows 11.

In short: Settings, System, Storage, Storage Sense on. Choose how often it runs and what it may delete.