Mac computers have emerged as repositories of one’s digital life. Since you are using the computer for work and personal purposes, the system is accumulating a large number of documents, files, and applications. It also stores media files, such as photos and videos. With time, the computer becomes cluttered, and finds it difficult to breathe. This results in the slowed-down performance of the computer. You may experience excessive lagging where the system takes too much time to finish simple tasks.
It is critical to combat this digital clutter to ensure your computer runs smoothly. You must adopt regular maintenance practices, some of which are explored below.
Identity and Remove Unwanted Files and Documents
When it comes to reclaiming space and restoring order, the first step is to identify the redundant files and documents. Remove all the unwanted items so that your computer doesn’t have to carry any unnecessary excess baggage.
You can start by reviewing the Downloads folder. This is a common dumping ground for outdated installers, temporary files, and miscellaneous downloads. Remove all the files that do not hold any value for you.
Then, review the Documents folder. Sort through all the old presentations, documents, and spreadsheets. Delete the irrelevant files. If there are some important documents and files, consider archiving them so they remain safe long-term.
Finally, it is time to tackle the Photos folder. This is where you will find your cherished memories, along with lots of duplicates of the same picture. There might also be large videos that are of no use. Delete all the blurry pictures, duplicate images, and outdated videos. If you don’t want to delete the pictures and videos because they are your precious memories, you can consider sending them to cloud storage or an external drive. Then, delete them from your computer.
Delete Screenshots
Screenshots are excellent collaboration tools. They are helpful in visually capturing information. However, with time, your Mac might be full of unnecessary screenshots that you don’t need anymore. Hence, you must regularly review the screenshots you have taken and delete screenshots from Mac desktop.
The desktop is the default location where screenshots get saved. With time, screenshots get accumulated, and the desktop becomes cluttered. This also consumes precious storage space. You must delete the screenshots you don’t need so you can free up space.
Tame the Application Ecosystem
With so many different applications at your disposal, you may lose track of how many applications you have installed on your system over the years. Suddenly, your computer starts sending you warning notifications that you cannot download any more apps because there’s no more space.
Do not wait till you reach this stage where your computer sends you warning messages. You must regularly review the Applications folder and uninstall the apps that are no longer of any value to you. Remember, you must also remove the related files.
Empty the Bin
The Bin sneakily stores all the items you have deleted and continues to take up a lot of space on your system. This folder is often overlooked and forgotten.
Make it your habit to regularly empty the Bin.
However, please note that emptying the Bin means permanently deleting the files, and you cannot recover them.
Send Files to Cloud Storage
Make it your habit to offload files, documents, images, and videos to iCloud. This is Apple’s default cloud storage solution. You can transfer the important items to the cloud so that the items are stored securely while allowing your computer’s storage space to breathe.
Compress the Large Files
If you need to retain large files on your computer but don’t use them frequently, you can opt to compress the files. File compression means reducing the file size without compromising quality.
You can use Mac’s built-in compression feature in Finder. This feature allows users to shrink files without compromising quality. Choose the file you want to compress and then click Compress. This is going to create a zipped archive file that does not consume a lot of space on the computer.
Use the Optimize Storage Option
Mac computers offer an Optimize Storage feature that you can use to automatically identify and store the files you don’t use regularly in iCloud. This helps in freeing up space.
You can use this feature by going to System Settings > Storage > click Optimize Storage.
Additionally, you must regularly review the files, photos, and documents on your computer and ensure it is clutter-free. Try not to have a chaotic Desktop because you will not find your files when you need them. It is best to implement a decluttering routine. This will ensure your computer is always clutter-free and spacious.
So, these are some of the best practices you can follow to ensure your Mac’s storage space is not bloated. This is going to significantly augment the performance of your Mac and enhance your overall computing experience.