If you want to clean up your iCloud storage and free up some space, there are several steps you can take. Follow these instructions to clean your iCloud:
1. Delete unnecessary files and data: Start by going through your iCloud storage and identifying any files or data that you no longer need. This can include old backups, photos, videos, documents, or app data.
2. Manage your iCloud Photo Library: If you have enabled iCloud Photo Library, go to the Photos app on your device and review your photo library. Delete any unwanted photos or videos that are consuming unnecessary iCloud storage space.
3. Review and remove old iCloud backups: iCloud automatically creates backups of your devices, but older backups may no longer be relevant. Go to your device’s settings, tap on your Apple ID, then iCloud, and finally Manage Storage. From here, select your device and delete any old backups that you no longer need.
4. Clear out deleted files: When you delete files from iCloud Drive, they are moved to a “Recently Deleted” folder, where they still occupy storage space. Open the Files app, tap on “Browse”, then “Locations”, and finally “Recently Deleted” to permanently delete these files.
5. Manage iCloud mail: If you use iCloud mail, review and delete unnecessary messages, attachments, and spam folders. You can also empty your trash folder to free up space.
6. Disable unnecessary app backups: Some apps automatically back up data to iCloud, which can consume a significant amount of storage space. To manage this, go to your device’s settings, tap on your Apple ID, then iCloud, and finally Manage Storage. Under “Backups”, turn off the backup for any apps that you don’t need to store data for in iCloud.
7. Optimize iCloud Drive storage: On your device, go to settings, tap on your Apple ID, then iCloud, and finally Manage Storage. Under “Documents & Data”, select iCloud Drive and enable the “Optimize Storage” option. This will automatically remove files from your device that are not frequently accessed, freeing up local storage space.
FAQs:
1. Will cleaning my iCloud delete my data from my devices?
No, cleaning your iCloud will not delete any data from your devices. It only removes unnecessary files and data stored in the iCloud.
2. How do I know which files or data to delete?
You can review your iCloud storage to see which files are taking up the most space. Delete any files that you no longer need or can be backed up elsewhere.
3. Can I recover deleted files from iCloud?
If you have recently deleted files, you can recover them from the “Recently Deleted” folder within the Files app. However, once you permanently delete files from this folder, they cannot be recovered.
4. Will disabling app backups delete existing data from iCloud?
No, disabling app backups only prevents future data from being backed up to iCloud. Your existing app data in iCloud will remain intact.
5. What happens if my iCloud storage is full?
If your iCloud storage is full, you won’t be able to back up your devices or store any new data in iCloud until you free up space or purchase additional storage.
6. Can I clean my iCloud from a computer?
Yes, you can clean your iCloud storage from a computer by accessing the iCloud website and managing your storage settings.
7. How often should I clean my iCloud?
There is no set frequency for cleaning your iCloud storage. It’s a good idea to regularly review and delete unnecessary files to keep your storage space optimized.
BOTTOM LINE:
Cleaning your iCloud storage is a great way to free up space and ensure you have enough storage for backups and essential data. By following the steps outlined above, you can efficiently clean your iCloud and keep it organized.
