AppCleaner is a small but powerful utility for macOS that allows you to completely uninstall applications, including the hidden files and system remnants that are often left behind when simply dragging an app to the Trash. Free, fast, and effective, AppCleaner is one of the best tools for maintaining a clean and optimized Mac.
If you want true app removal without leftover clutter, AppCleaner is a must-have.
🧼 What Is AppCleaner?
When you uninstall an application on macOS by dragging it to the Trash, many hidden files—like preferences, caches, logs, and support folders—are left behind. Over time, these leftovers can accumulate and waste storage space.
AppCleaner solves this by identifying and removing all associated files when you delete an app. It ensures that no trace is left behind, restoring your system to a truly clean state.
đź’ˇ Key Features
- Drag-and-drop uninstall: Just drop any app into AppCleaner’s window to see all associated files.
- Smart detection: Finds related files in
~/Library and other system locations.
- Application list: View and manage installed apps for quick removal.
- Widgets and login items: Optionally remove login items and unused widgets.
- Silent mode (optional): Monitor trash and automatically clean when apps are deleted.
🚀 How to Use AppCleaner
🧩 Installation:
- Download AppCleaner for free from freemacsoft.net.
- Move the app to your Applications folder.
- Grant permission if needed (for newer macOS versions like Ventura or Sonoma).
📦 Uninstalling Apps:
- Drag the app you want to remove into AppCleaner.
- AppCleaner will display all related files (caches, preferences, support files).
- Click “Remove” to delete the app and all its leftovers.
🛠️ Why Use AppCleaner?
- Complete cleanup: Removes all hidden files related to an app.
- Saves space: Frees up disk space by removing unused data.
- Avoids clutter: Keeps your macOS environment tidy.
- User-friendly: Minimal interface, no learning curve.
- Free: No ads, no upsells, and no unnecessary features.
âś… Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Totally free and lightweight
- Accurate file detection
- Safe and fast deletion
- Works with most Mac apps
- No installation required (runs as a standalone app)
Cons:
- Doesn’t uninstall system apps
- No in-app help/documentation
- May require permissions for deeper access on newer macOS versions
👤 Ideal For
- Mac users who install and test apps frequently
- Power users wanting to keep their system clean
- Anyone frustrated by leftover app data after deleting apps
- Users with limited SSD storage
🖥️ Compatibility
- Compatible with macOS 10.11 El Capitan and above, including Ventura and Sonoma
- Works on Intel and Apple Silicon (M1, M2, M3) Macs
🔚 Conclusion
AppCleaner is one of those rare tools that does one thing—and does it extremely well. Whether you’re a power user, a developer, or just someone who values a tidy system, AppCleaner makes uninstalling Mac apps easy and thorough. With its intuitive interface and zero cost, it’s a no-brainer addition to your Mac toolkit.