Issue How to Delete Leftover Files from Removed Apps on Mac

How to Delete Leftover Files from Removed Apps on Mac

When Mac users delete applications by simply dragging them to the Trash bin, that oftentimes results in various service files associated with the uninstalled program being left on the system. These service files include cache files, error reports, preferences, logs, and other data that the specific application creates as support files. While these files are extremely small in size normally, over a prolonged period, they could start to take up enormous chunks of the hard drive, and cause slowdowns and other issues of the whole system.

Users can check for and remove such leftover files manually by going to the ~/Library folder that is hidden by default. To start, open Finder, select the 'Go' menu, and click on 'Go to Folder.' A new window will appear. In it, type ~/Library and click on 'Go.' This should open the hidden folder. Now, navigate through the subfolders and delete unnecessary service files. The most common destinations that you should check are:

~/Library/Caches

~/Library/Logs

~/Library/Containers

~/Library/Application Support

~/Library/Cookies

When you are done, use the same steps to open the normal Library folder. The places you should check there are:

/Library/Address Book Plug-Ins

/Library/Application Support

/Library/Application Support/CrashReporter

/Library/Preferences

/Library/Saved Application State

/private/var/db/BootCaches

Do not forget to clear the Trash after you are done removing the files. 

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