Just installed App Cleaner & Uninstaller? This guide walks you through the first launch and the main tasks – from granting Full Disk Access to uninstalling your first app.
Before we start, watch a quick video on how to use App Cleaner & Uninstaller.
Your first launch: what to expect
When you first open the app, macOS will ask for Full Disk Access. This is a standard security requirement that allows the tool to scan your drive for deep-seated service files and “leftovers.”
- Click Open System Settings in the dialog.
- It will automatically open the Full Disk Access section of your macOS settings.
- Toggle ON for App Cleaner & Uninstaller.
- Relaunch the app. It will automatically scan your Mac to find all apps and their support files.
Understanding the dashboard
On the left-hand panel, you can navigate through five key management categories:
- Applications: Uninstall software and its service files.
- Startup Programs: Control apps that launch at login.
- Extensions: Manage browser plugins, widgets, and screen savers.
- Remaining Files: Delete files left over from previously trashed apps.
- Updates: Install new versions of your software.
How to uninstall an app
- In the Applications tab, select the app you want to remove (use the search bar if needed).
- Click the Uninstall button.
- Review the list and click Remove to confirm.
Want to keep the app but delete only its caches? Toggle Expert Mode at the top to select specific files for removal.
How to check app security and permissions
In the Applications tab, select any app to see additional details:
- Notarization status – whether the app has been verified by Apple for malicious components
- Permissions – which system access the app has been granted (Camera, Microphone, Files, etc.)
Use this to spot apps with broader access than expected.
How to manage startup programs
This section allows you to control which applications and background processes launch automatically when you turn on your Mac.
- Go to the Startup Programs tab.
- Select a startup item and click the Disable or Enable button to change its status.
- Alternatively, you can use the toggle switch to turn it ON or OFF.
Permanent Removal: To completely delete a startup entry from the system list, select the item and click the Remove button located near the toggle.
How to remove extensions
The Extensions tab shows the list of plugins, browser extensions, and system add-ons installed on your Mac.
- Choose the type of extension you want to view.
- Browse the list and click the checkbox next to the specific extension you wish to delete.
- Confirm removal.
How to remove remaining files
These are files left behind by apps you deleted in the past by dragging them to the Trash.
- Go to the Remaining Files tab.
- Review the list – the app shows which deleted application left each file.
- Select the files you want to delete and click Remove.
How to update apps
This tool identifies updates from App Store and developer sites for all your installed software.
- Navigate to the Updates tab.
- Select an app to see the “What’s new” release notes.
- Use the checkboxes to select one or multiple apps.
- Click Update at the bottom right and confirm.
