Optimize Storage is Apple’s built-in storage cleanup tool to manage Mac storage efficiently. First introduced in macOS Sierra, it consists of four important components: Store in iCloud, Optimize Storage, Empty Bin Automatically, and Reduce Clutter, which you can use selectively or all at once. Since, you are clear with the basics, let’s begin with the process…
How to Access Optimize Storage on MacHow to Use Store in iCloud on MacStop Syncing Desktop and Documents Folders to iCloud on MacHow to Stop Storing Your Photos in iCloudHow to Disable Messages in iCloud on MacUse Optimize Storage on Mac to Automatically Remove Movies and ShowsHow to Turn OFF Optimize Storage on your MacEmpty Mac Bin AutomaticallyDisable Empty Bin Automatically on MacDelete Useless Files from Mac
How to Access Optimize Storage on Mac
Side Note: Just in case, your disk has been partitioned, you should see recommendations only for the partition which consists of the home directory.
How to Use Store in iCloud on Mac
Desktop and Documents: Choose it to use iCloud Drive to store all of your files from desktop and document locations. Do note that when you need storage space on your Mac, only the files you recently opened will be kept on your computer. Photos: Select it to store full-resolution photos and videos in iCloud Photo Library and keep the optimized versions on the Mac. Messages: Select it to use the “Messages in iCloud” feature to store your entire messages and attachments in iCloud. It’s worth noting that when your Mac will require storage space, only the recently opened messages and attachments will be kept on the computer. By default, all the options are selected. However, you can uncheck the box to the left of a specific box, if you don’t want to store that file type. After that, click on Store in iCloud to confirm.
Your stored files will be accessible across the iDevices including iPhone, iPhone, and iPad.It’s worth reiterating that storing files in iCloud consumes the storage space in your iCloud storage planAs Apple offers just 5GB of free iCloud storage, you’ve got to be very selective about what sort of files you should store in the cloudWhen you reach the iCloud storage limit, you will receive an alert saying something like “iCloud Storage is Full. Upgrade your storage to keep using iCloud.” Simply, click on Upgrade in the popup message and then choose the preferred iCloud storage plan.As for the pricing, the iCloud storage plan starts at 50GB for $0.99/ month. If you find the 5GB free iCloud storage too little for your needs, Google Drive 15GB free space, 100GB for $1.99/month, Box (10GB free, 100GB for $5/month would be worth checking out.)
Stop Syncing Desktop and Documents Folders to iCloud on Mac
That’s it! From now onwards, your documents won’t sync with iCloud.
How to Stop Storing Your Photos in iCloud
How to Disable Messages in iCloud on Mac
Use Optimize Storage on Mac to Automatically Remove Movies and Shows
How to Turn OFF Optimize Storage on your Mac
Empty Mac Bin Automatically
Disable Empty Bin Automatically on your Mac
Delete Useless Files from Mac
Manage Your Mac Storage Smartly to Keep the Clutter at Bay… That’s the way you can optimize the storage space on your macOS device, ensuring all the useless files stay away. From what I have experienced, it works as expected in terms of getting rid of redundant data. More Hands-On Guides to Explore:
How to Convert PDF to Word on Mac For FreeVirus on Mac: Things You Need to KnowHow to Convert HEIC to JPG on MacAweEraser for Mac: Delete Files Permanently
What’s your take on the macOS built-in storage cleaner? Share your thoughts in comment section.
