Tidy Tech: 15 Minutes to a Cleaner, Faster Digital Life

Just like your home benefits from a good cleaning, your devices do too. Over time, files, apps, and digital clutter can slow things down—not to mention make it harder to find what you need. The good news? You don’t have to spend hours doing it. With just 15 minutes, you can give your tech a refresh that’ll make your digital life feel lighter and more organized.

1. Clear the Desktop Clutter

If your computer’s desktop looks like a junk drawer, start there.

• Delete files you no longer need.

• Move important items to clearly labeled folders.

• Consider using a simple background image to reduce visual noise.

2. Uninstall Apps You Never Use

On your phone, tablet, or computer, uninstall apps you don’t recognize or haven’t opened in months.

• For mobile: Long-press the app icon and select “Remove” or “Uninstall.

• On a computer: Head to your settings or control panel to review installed programs.

• You’ll free up space and reduce unnecessary background processes that may be slowing you down.

3. Organize Files Into Folders

No one wants to dig through a “Downloads” folder with 800 random files.

• Create folders labeled by category—like “Photos,” “Taxes,” “Work,” or “School”—and drag files into them.

• Need to keep it simple? Start with three folders: Keep, Trash, and Review Later.

4. Clean Up Your Browser

A messy browser can slow you down and even pose a security risk.

• Delete old bookmarks you never click on.

• Clear your browsing history and cache.

• Remove extensions or toolbars you don’t use or don’t remember installing.

5. Back Up What Matters

Take a minute to back up important files or photos to the cloud or an external drive. It only takes a moment, but it can save a ton of heartache if your device crashes unexpectedly.

6. Set Yourself Up for Future Success

Before you log off:

• Turn on automatic software updates.

• Enable cloud syncing for photos or documents if you haven’t already.

• Add “Tech Tidy Time” to your calendar once a season to stay on top of things.

  
  

Your digital world doesn’t have to be a mess. A little cleanup goes a long way—making your devices faster, your files easier to find, and your daily tech time a little less stressful.

So, set a timer and give it a go. You’ve got this.