How I Use CCleaner: Temp Files, Startup Apps, and Uninstalling Programs

Everyday technology, one step at a time · By Thomas M Campbell

I use CCleaner to clean temporary files, manage startup items, and review installed programs when I want to uninstall something. I also use its registry cleaner, although I know that does not help much, if at all. Here is what those features do, and where I would start if you are new to PC cleanup.

Why I keep CCleaner around

• Temporary files: this is one of my regular uses. Review the categories before cleaning; a file being listed does not mean it is something you want to lose.
• Startup items: I use it to manage what starts with the computer. Disabling startup is different from uninstalling an app. For beginners, disable only items you recognize and do not need at sign-in; keep protection software enabled.
• Installed programs: I like having a program list handy when removing software I no longer want. CCleaner 7 also introduced batch uninstalling. Older versions may work differently, so check your version rather than assuming every edition can remove several apps together.

CCleaner documents batch uninstalling in its CCleaner 7 release notes. Its uninstall guide explains the program list. Only uninstall software you recognize and no longer need.

What does a cleanup tool do?

Think of temporary files as packaging left after a delivery. Some can be removed when they are no longer needed. Other files keep your apps and websites working conveniently. Cleaning more is not always better.

CCleaner does not replace antivirus protection or a backup. If your computer is slow, start with our slow-computer guide rather than assuming junk files are the cause.

Try Windows’ free option first

Windows includes Storage Sense. Open Settings → System → Storage and review the cleanup options. Storage Sense can remove temporary files and manage Recycle Bin cleanup. Read each setting before enabling automatic deletion, especially anything involving Downloads or cloud files.

You may find that this is enough. See Microsoft’s Storage Sense instructions.

If you choose CCleaner, review before deleting

1. Download it from the official CCleaner website. Avoid ads or pop-ups claiming your computer urgently needs cleaning.
2. Save your work. Make sure important files are backed up.
3. In Custom Clean, review the selected categories. Use Analyze to see the proposed cleanup before running it. Names and layout can vary by version.
4. Leave unfamiliar options unchecked. If you do not understand what an item removes, look it up first.

CCleaner’s analysis and results guide explains how to review the findings.

Browser cleanup can sign you out

Cookies help websites remember sign-ins and settings. Removing them can sign you out. Browser history, saved passwords, and saved form information are different categories; check what you have selected. Do not delete saved passwords just because a cleanup tool lists them.

See CCleaner’s cookie guidance before changing cookie cleanup settings.

The registry cleaner: a habit, not a promised speed boost

I have used this feature, but I do not consider it a meaningful reason to buy CCleaner. My use of it is not a recommendation for beginners to clean the registry.

The registry stores Windows and application settings. Microsoft does not support registry cleaning utilities and warns that incorrect changes can cause problems. For a beginner, our advice is to leave registry cleaning out of routine cleanup.

Microsoft’s registry-cleaner policy

Keep the goal simple

Remove files you understand, keep things you need, and do not treat a long list of cleanup findings as proof that your computer is broken. A paid tool is optional. Start with Windows’ built-in cleanup and use CCleaner only when its features solve a problem you actually have.

Protect your important files with the 3-2-1 backup rule · Read our Windows security setup guide

Links to CCleaner in this guide are ordinary links. No CCleaner affiliate approval or tracking link has been confirmed.