Mac storage basics · Finding big files, Downloads and the Trash

How do I make the Trash empty itself automatically on a Mac?

Q: How do I make the Trash empty itself automatically on a Mac?

In Finder, open Finder → Settings… → Advanced and tick Remove items from the Trash after 30 days. The same switch appears as Empty Trash Automatically in System Settings → General → Storage. Items then stay recoverable for 30 days before macOS deletes them permanently. Until then they still take up space, so empty the Trash manually when you need room immediately.

Short answer: Tick Remove items from the Trash after 30 days in Finder → Settings → Advanced (or Empty Trash Automatically in Storage settings).

In Finder, open Finder → Settings… → Advanced and tick Remove items from the Trash after 30 days. The same switch appears as Empty Trash Automatically in System Settings → General → Storage.

Items then stay recoverable for 30 days before macOS deletes them permanently. Until then they still take up space, so empty the Trash manually when you need room immediately.

Last reviewed October 1, 2026

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How do I make the Trash empty itself automatically on a Mac?

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