How to Permanently Delete Files on iCloud: A Comprehensive Guide

Managing files in the cloud is a Ки?в essential part of modern computing. This guide will walk you through the process of deleting files on iCloud, ensuring you have a thorough understanding of the steps involved. Whether you are working on an iOS device, using a Mac, or accessing iCloud through a web browser, this guide covers all methods in detail.

Deleting Files and Folders on iOS

The first step in managing files on iCloud from an iOS device is to open the Files app . Here, you can browse and manage your iCloud Drive.

Open the Files app on your iOS device.

Tap the Browse tab located at the bottom of your screen, next to the Recents tab.

Tap on iCloud Drive > Select to highlight the location. After tapping, you will see the folder you have selected at the top right corner.

Select the folders or files you wish to delete. The selected items will highlight accordingly.

Tap on the trash can icon to move the selected files into the Recently Deleted folder. Note that items will only be permanently deleted after 30 days.

Navigate back to the main iCloud Drive folder. Items in the Recently Deleted folder will be deleted permanently after 30 days.

Tap on the folders or files you wish to delete.

Tap on Delete. This will also remove the files from your Mac if it is set up to sync with iCloud.

Deleting Files and Folders on a Mac

Deleting files and folders on a Mac can be done using the Finder app or by accessing iCloud directly from your web browser.

Open Finder and click on iCloud Drive. Ensure that iCloud Drive is enabled in your System Preferences for it to appear. If it isn't present, refer to the Apple Support Guide.

Drag and drop the item to the trash to delete it. You can also do this through the web browser method.

Open the Trash and right-click on the files or folders you wish to delete. Select multiple items by pressing the Command key and clicking, or hold down the Command key while clicking to add to your selection. Click Delete Immediately to ensure the items are permanently deleted from your iCloud Drive.

Deleting Files and Folders on a Windows PC

Using an app or the web browser method can help you manage your iCloud files and folders on a Windows PC.

On a Windows 10 PC, open the iCloud for Windows app from the Microsoft Store for free. For earlier versions of Windows, download the app directly from the Apple Support Page.

Sign in with your Apple ID.

Navigate to the iCloud Drive folder in the menu on the left side of the window. Select the folders and files you want to delete, either by pressing and holding the Shift key or selecting multiple files.

Click on Delete to remove the files. Files deleted in this manner will also be removed from any other devices you are signed into with iCloud.

Deleting Texts and Attachments in Messages on iOS and Mac

Deleting messages and attachments can also be done on iOS and Mac devices, making sure to manage your communication effectively.

Deleting on iOS

Open the Messages app on your iOS device.

Select the conversation or thread you wish to delete.

Tap and hold on the message bubble or attachment you want to delete. For multiple attachments, tap on the sender's name and then the information icon.

Tap on More to open the menu, then tap on Trash. To permanently delete the entire thread, tap on the "Delete" option in the upper left corner.

Deleting on a Mac

Open a message conversation in the Messages app, found in the Dock or in the Applications folder.

Press and click on a blank area of the message bubble you wish to delete. A delete option will appear.

Press Delete (on a Mac) or Cmd Delete (on a PC). Confirm the action to permanently delete the message or folder.

Conclusion

Managing files and messages on iCloud is a breeze with a few simple steps. Whether you prefer using your mobile device, a Mac, or a Windows PC, deleting files and messages is a straightforward process. Regularly cleaning up your iCloud space can help you keep your cloud storage organized and efficient.