Frequently asked questions

Is it safe? Underbrush only ticks things apps rebuild or re-download on their own. It skips anything written in the last 3 days, files in use, git repositories, and package caches while a build is running. You always see the list and the total before anything is deleted. See The piles and the safety rules.

Can I undo a clean-up? No. Underbrush deletes directly, not to the Recycle Bin or Trash. That's why only rebuildable things are in Safe to clear, and why you review the list first.

Will it delete my documents, photos or code? No. Your own files are Unsorted, and Underbrush never clears Unsorted or Leave it. Git repositories are protected even inside a temp folder.

What happens to OneDrive or iCloud files? They're made online-only, never deleted. They stay in the cloud and download again when you open them.

Why don't the folders add up to my drive? Some space can't be read by any app, like restore points. The Dashboard shows it as Not seen by the scan.

Do I need to run it as administrator? No. Without administrator rights a few system folders can't be read; the Dashboard says how many, and leaves them out.

How is it different from Windows Disk Cleanup? Disk Cleanup knows Windows' own files. Underbrush also knows browser and app caches, developer caches and build output, and shows you where all your space went.

How is it different from WinDirStat or WizTree? They show where the space went. Underbrush also says what each thing is and whether it's safe to clear, and clears it for you.

Does it work on a Mac? Yes. Give it Full Disk Access to see everything. See Mac: Full Disk Access.

Does it send my files or folder names anywhere? No. See the privacy policy.

Where is the history kept? On your computer only. See History.