How To Fix The Your Startup Disk Is Almost Full Error On Mac

A startup disk, where macOS is installed, requires adequate free space for optimal operation. Insufficient space can lead to potential issues impairing device operations, storage capabilities, and application performance. To ensure proper functionality, at least 10% of your startup disk should be free. Therefore, upon receiving this message, it is imperative to free up storage space immediately to prevent further issues.

Check Your Disk Space

Before proceeding with a remedy, first assess how much storage your Mac is using and how much is available. This will help you determine the amount of space you need to free and prioritize the most critical cleanup steps.

1. Optimize Storage Space

Optimizing Mac storage can not only help clear space on the startup disk but also improve system speed. It is particularly advisable when the message indicates that your device is lagging in performance. Mac provides several recommendations for optimizing space, like moving data to iCloud, emptying the Trash folder regularly, or having the system automatically remove watched movies and TV shows.

2. Clean Cache Files

Your Mac generates cache files, temporary files, and backups for optimal operation, yet over time these files become redundant and consume space. Removing them, while seemingly complicated, is relatively straightforward and helps prevent file corruption and system inefficiencies. Note that manually deleting files carries some risk of accidentally removing important data. Consider using a reputable third-party cleaning tool.

3. Remove the Trash Items

Deleted files are relocated to the Trash and compressed, not immediately removed, allowing for potential recovery. Over time, the Trash can accumulate and use unnecessary disk space.

4. Clean Your Desktop

A cluttered desktop can consume excessive resources as it refreshes to display the latest updates. Utilizing the Stacks feature, which groups files by type or creation date, can help manage desktop clutter and improve performance.

5. Remove Unwanted Apps

Unnecessary applications occupy precious disk space. Review the apps installed on your Mac and uninstall those you no longer use.

6. Clean up the Photo Library

Pictures from iOS devices can accumulate on your Mac via iCloud, leading to redundant duplicates consuming storage on both devices. Consider deleting unneeded photos or using third-party software to detect duplicates. Alternatively, transfer photos to an external drive.