Keeping your Mac running smoothly and efficiently often requires regular maintenance, including uninstalling applications you no longer use. While the process is generally straightforward, different installation methods require different removal techniques. Simply dragging an app to the Trash is often not enough to completely remove all associated files, which can clutter your system and take up valuable storage space. Understanding the various uninstallation methods will ensure your Mac remains clean and optimized.
The simplest way: Apps from the App Store
For applications downloaded directly from the Mac App Store, the easiest method is through Launchpad.
- First, open Launchpad by clicking its icon (a silver rocket ship) in the Dock.
- Click and hold on any app icon until all the icons begin to “jiggle”.
- Click the small “x” icon that appears in the top-left corner of the app you want to delete.
- Confirm the deletion by clicking Delete when prompted.
If an “x” does not appear, it means the app was not installed via the App Store and must be uninstalled using a different method.
The standard method: Apps installed from the web
For the majority of apps installed from a developer’s website, the process involves the Finder.
- Ensure the application you want to uninstall is closed. You can force-quit an app by pressing Option + Command + esc.
- Open Finder and navigate to your Applications folder from the sidebar.
- Find the app you wish to remove. Then, do one of the following:
- Drag the application icon from the Applications folder to the Trash icon in your Dock.
- Right-click (or Control-click) the application icon and select “Move to Trash”.
- Select the application and use the keyboard shortcut Command + Delete.
- To finalize the process and reclaim storage space, right-click the Trash icon and select “Empty Trash”.
The comprehensive method: Removing leftover files
While the standard method removes the main application file, it often leaves behind residual “service files” such as caches, preferences, and support files. To perform a complete and thorough uninstallation, you must manually delete these lingering files.
- After moving the app to the Trash, open Finder.
- In the menu bar, click Go > Go to Folder….
- A window will appear. You’ll need to check a few different locations, starting with the hidden user Library folder. Type
~/Libraryand press Enter. - In the user Library folder, check the following subfolders for any folders or files with the name of the app you uninstalled:
Application SupportCachesContainersLogsPreferencesSaved Application State
- Drag any found files or folders to the Trash. Remember to be cautious and only delete files directly related to the uninstalled application.
- Repeat the process, but this time, go to the system-wide Library folder by typing
/Libraryin the Go to Folder search bar. Look in the same subfolders for any remaining files. - Finally, empty your Trash to permanently delete everything.
The advanced method: Using Terminal
For tech-savvy users, the Terminal provides a powerful and quick way to remove applications.
- Open Terminal from the Applications > Utilities folder.
- Type
sudo rm -rffollowed by a space. - Drag the application icon from the Applications folder into the Terminal window. The file path will be automatically pasted.
- The command should look like this:
sudo rm -rf /Applications/AppName.app(replacing “AppName” with the correct name). - Press Enter, and you will be prompted for your administrator password. The app will be deleted.
Using a dedicated uninstaller
Some large or complex applications, especially those from specific developers like Adobe, come with their own uninstaller utility.
- Check the app’s folder within your Applications directory for a subfolder named “Uninstall” or an app with “Uninstaller” in its title.
- If found, double-click the uninstaller and follow the on-screen instructions.
By following these methods, you can effectively uninstall apps on your Mac and ensure your system remains clean and clutter-free.