DS_Store Cleaner for macOS: Delete .DS_Store Files in Seconds

What Does DS_Store Cleaner Do?

DS_Store Cleaner is a free and ad-free macOS utility that does one thing perfectly: it finds and removes all .DS_Storefiles from the folders you select. With a focus on privacy, simplicity, and reliability, it’s the go-to tool for power users, developers, designers, and anyone who likes things tidy.

How Does It Work?

• Step 1: Open DS_Store Cleaner.
• Step 2: Select one or more folders (by drag-and-drop or via the “Choose Folder” dialog).
• Step 3: Click „Clean“. The app scans all subfolders and lists all .DS_Store files it finds.
• Step 4: Confirm the deletion. The app securely removes the files and presents a full report.

The app never accesses any data outside the folders you select. No files other than .DS_Store are affected.

What DS_Store Cleaner Does Not Do

• Does not run automatically or in the background: The app works only when you manually start it and select folders. There is no automatic scanning, background activity, or system monitoring.
• Does not prevent future .DS_Store files: Finder may create new .DS_Store files when you open folders again. The app cannot stop this default macOS behavior.
• Does not access or clean protected system folders: DS_Store Cleaner can only scan and clean folders for which you explicitly grant access. It cannot delete .DS_Store files from protected macOS system directories such as /System, /Library, or other restricted areas. This is enforced by macOS security (App Sandbox, System Integrity Protection).