NO MATTER HOW much free space you have on your device, there will come a time where it will begin to slow down or become congested.

That’s a problem in itself, but mostly that’s because what you’re running takes up a lot of memory, either immediately or by saving data into your cache.

If you find your phone or device isn’t really performing as well as it should, then it might be worth taking a moment or two to remove some apps and services and clean up your cache.

PC

While there are a vast number of cleaning tools out there for Windows, few are as good or as reliable as CCleaner. Removing unused files from your computer as well as being a registry cleaner, it’s one of the most comprehensive versions out there and it’s free too (although there are paid versions should you need something a little extra).

Mac

The options on Mac aren’t as comprehensive as the PC, but there is still a decent selection of apps out there for you to choose. One nice example is Disk App, a minimalist yet powerful cleaner which breaks everything up into pie charts for easy access.

Alternatively, you could go for something a little more comprehensive look at your disk usage. Services like OnyX or Disk Inventory X would serve you better.

Thejournal Thejournal

iOS

In the case of your iPhone or iPad, you’re actually better off doing it manually. Doing this requires you to check your usage which is found by going to Settings > General > Usage > Manage Storage.

Here you will be presented with all the apps you have downloaded and tapping any of them will present you with a breakdown of how that storage is used (if applicable). Handy for freeing up a little bit of space if needed.

Android

Much like PC, you have a few options to choose from but a good choice would be The Cleaner, which sets regular reminders to clean up your cache and free up storage. It also allows you to go a little bit deeper and highlight apps that have access to features like SMS, location and camera as well as uninstall unused apps.

Alternatively, CCleaner (which was mentioned earlier) has an Android app which brings a lot of the same elements as its desktop counterpart to the small screen.

The Cleaner / Google Play The Cleaner / Google Play / Google Play

Windows Phone

One of the best ways to clean your device is already on your phone in the form of Storage Sense. It gives an overview of your free space on both internal storage and your SD and allows you to micromanage your apps or sections, moving them to your SD card if required.

Read: Apple’s €16 billion profit ‘the biggest in history’ >

Read: Here we go again? Microsoft Windows is starting to slide >

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