---
id: mac-storage-basics.how-do-i-clear-deleted-voice-memos
url: https://storagestudio.us/faq/mac-storage-basics/how-do-i-clear-deleted-voice-memos
category: "Mac storage basics"
subcategory: "Creative and media apps"
question: "How do I stop deleted Voice Memos from taking up space?"
alt_questions:
  - "voice memos recently deleted mac"
  - "clear deleted voice memos"
  - "voice memos storage mac"
  - "voice memos settings clear deleted"
  - "delete recordings voice memos"
  - "voice memos space"
short_answer: "Open Recently Deleted in Voice Memos and erase the recordings, then set Voice Memos → Settings → Clear Deleted to a shorter period."
tags: ["voice memos", "recently deleted", "audio"]
related: ["https://storagestudio.us/faq/mac-storage-basics/how-do-i-empty-recently-deleted-in-photos", "https://storagestudio.us/faq/mac-storage-basics/how-do-i-delete-downloaded-podcasts-and-books"]
applies_to: "all"
last_reviewed: 2026-10-01
---

# How do I stop deleted Voice Memos from taking up space?

Deleted recordings in **Voice Memos** go to **Recently Deleted** first, where they still use space. Open Recently Deleted in the sidebar and choose **Erase All** (or erase individual items) to remove them now.

To control it for the future, open **Voice Memos → Settings** and set **Clear Deleted** to a shorter period, such as immediately or after a day. If your memos sync through iCloud, deletions apply on your other devices too.