On a Mac, most apps are a single bundle in your Applications folder, and deleting that bundle removes the app. But apps also create supporting files as you use them: caches, settings, saved data, and sometimes helper tools. Those stay behind when you delete the app itself.
Usually these leftovers are small. Occasionally, for apps that download content, such as games, creative tools, virtual machines or AI tools, they can be many gigabytes.
Step 1: Use the app's uninstaller if it has one
Some apps, especially larger ones such as Adobe apps, Microsoft Office, VPNs, antivirus tools and drivers, include an uninstaller. Look in the app's folder in Applications, or check the developer's website. An uninstaller removes helper tools and background items that dragging to the Trash would miss.
Step 2: Delete the app
Quit the app first. Then use any of these:
- Finder: open Applications, drag the app to the Trash, and enter your password if asked.
- Storage settings: choose System Settings > General > Storage, click ⓘ next to Applications, select the app, and click Delete.
- App Store apps: these can also be deleted from Finder in the same way. You can download them again at any time from your purchases.
You cannot delete apps that are part of macOS, such as Safari, Mail or Photos.
If macOS says the app is in use, quit it from the Dock or Activity Monitor, or restart and try again.
Step 3: Find leftover files
App support files live in your user Library folder, which is hidden by default. In Finder, choose Go > Go to Folder and enter ~/Library. The usual places to look are:
| Folder | What it holds |
|---|---|
Application Support |
App data: libraries, downloaded content, databases, settings |
Caches |
Rebuildable caches |
Containers and Group Containers |
Data for sandboxed apps, including App Store apps |
Preferences |
Small settings files ending in .plist |
Saved Application State |
Window positions when the app was last open |
Logs |
Log files |
LaunchAgents |
Background helpers that start when you log in |
Folders are usually named after the app or its developer, or a "bundle identifier" such as com.developer.appname. Search Finder for the app's name with This Mac selected to find more.
Step 4: Decide carefully
Before you delete anything from these folders:
- Make sure the app is really gone and that no other app from the same developer still uses the folder. Developers often share a folder across several apps.
- Check whether it holds your work. Some apps keep documents, projects, game saves or libraries in Application Support. If you might reinstall, you may want to keep them.
- Move items to the Trash rather than deleting them immediately, and empty the Trash only once everything still works.
Step 5: Check background items
Open System Settings > General > Login Items & Extensions and switch off or remove any items left behind by the app you deleted.
About "app remover" tools
Tools that find leftovers automatically search the same folders by matching names. That is convenient, but matching by name alone can also flag files shared with other apps or containing your data. Choose a tool that shows you each file, explains what it is, and lets you review before anything is removed.
Frequently asked questions
Does dragging an app to the Trash uninstall it?
It removes the app itself. Settings, caches and support files in your Library folder usually remain. They are often small, but can be large for apps that download content.
Is it safe to delete files in Library/Application Support?
Only for apps you have definitely removed, and only after checking the folder does not hold work you want to keep or data shared with another app from the same developer.
Why can I not delete an app on my Mac?
It may be running, it may be part of macOS, or it may be managed by your organisation. Quit it, restart if needed, and check for an uninstaller.
Want this done for you?
spacerecover scans your Mac for caches, old installers, app leftovers, large files and developer build-up, explains each one in plain words, and clears what you approve in one step. Items go to the Trash first, so you can undo.