BleachBit is a free and open-source system cleaner for Windows that helps remove unnecessary files, protect your privacy, and recover valuable disk space. It can clear browser caches, cookies, temporary files, logs, and other junk data created by Windows and hundreds of popular applications.
Unlike many commercial PC cleaners, BleachBit contains no advertisements, bundled software, or background services. It also includes secure file shredding and free-space wiping to permanently erase sensitive data beyond normal file deletion.
Key Features
- Remove temporary files, cache, cookies, and browsing history
- Free up disk space by deleting unnecessary system files
- Supports over 1,000 Windows and third-party applications
- Securely shred files to prevent recovery
- Wipe free disk space to erase traces of deleted files
- Clean popular browsers including Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Opera, and Safari
- Portable version available without installation
- Command-line support for scripting and automation
- Open-source, lightweight, and completely free
- Regular updates with new cleaning rules
How to Use
- Install and launch BleachBit.
- Run it as Administrator for full cleaning access.
- Select the applications and system areas you want to clean.
- Click Preview to review the files that will be removed.
- Click Clean to permanently delete the selected data.
- Use Shred Files or Wipe Free Space when secure deletion is required.
System Requirements
- Windows 7, 8, 10, or 11
- 1 GHz processor or faster
- 512 MB RAM minimum (1 GB recommended)
- 100 MB available disk space
- Administrator privileges recommended
Pros
- Free and open-source
- Removes junk files efficiently
- Supports hundreds of applications
- Secure file shredding included
- Portable version available
- No ads or bundled software
Cons
- No automatic scheduled cleaning
- No backup or restore function
- Advanced options may confuse beginners
- Careless cleaning can remove useful cached data
Conclusion
BleachBit is one of the best free system cleaning utilities for Windows users who want to reclaim disk space while protecting their privacy. Its combination of junk file removal, secure deletion, and open-source transparency makes it an excellent alternative to many commercial PC cleaning tools. Whether you need occasional maintenance or secure file removal, BleachBit provides a lightweight and reliable solution without unnecessary extras.
