How to Reclaim Hundreds of GB on Windows: Disk Cleanup, Storage Sense, and WizTree Guide

Learn step‑by‑step how to use Windows built‑in tools and the free utility WizTree to clear temporary files, delete large leftovers, and regain up to 100 GB of storage.

1 February 2026 by

TechStora Editorial Board

Why Disk Cleanup Is a Good Starting Point

Disk Cleanup is the native Windows utility that quickly removes non‑critical temporary files. With the default selection you may only see a few hundred megabytes, but adding items like the Recycle Bin, Delivery Optimization Files, and Windows Temporary Files can free several gigabytes in under five minutes.

Open Disk Cleanup from the Start menu.
Check “Recycle Bin” and “Delivery Optimization Files”.
Click “Clean up system files” for deeper options.

Leveraging Storage Sense for Ongoing Maintenance

Storage Sense runs automatically in the background and offers “Cleanup recommendations” that mirror Disk Cleanup’s work while also suggesting additional space‑saving actions.

Go to Settings → System → Storage.
Enable Storage Sense and let it scan.
Review and apply any recommendations.

Finding Large Files with WizTree

WizTree visualizes disk usage by size, making it easy to locate massive folders and forgotten files that native tools miss.

Download and install the free WizTree utility.
Select the C: drive; the program lists files sorted by size.
Identify oversized folders (e.g., Users, duplicate VMs, old ISO images) and delete what you no longer need.

Combining Tools for Maximum Space Recovery

The real power comes from using Disk Cleanup, Storage Sense, and WizTree together. Disk Cleanup clears system caches, Storage Sense handles periodic cleanup, and WizTree uncovers user‑generated bloat.

Run Disk Cleanup → “Clean up system files”.
Enable Storage Sense for continuous upkeep.
Periodically scan with WizTree to prune large personal files.

Tips and Precautions

Before deleting, always verify that files are not required for Windows or installed programs. Avoid removing anything from the Windows or Program Files directories unless you are certain of its purpose. Consider moving rarely used large files to an external drive to keep the system partition lean.

Disable hibernation (command powercfg -h off) to delete hiberfil.sys and regain ~6 GB.
Back up important data before massive deletions.
Regularly run Storage Sense to keep the PC clutter‑free.