Running a WordPress site is fun—until your media library turns into an image jungle. Tons of unused photos just hanging out, doing… well, nothing!
These forgotten files can slow down your site, eat up storage space, and just look plain messy. So how do you clean them up without breaking anything important?
Don’t worry—I’ve got you covered. We’re going to go over the easiest way to delete unused images from your WordPress media library. And yes, it’ll be quick, fun, and painless!
Why Clean Up Your Media Library?
Before we dive into the “how,” let’s understand the “why.” Here are a few reasons to go on a digital cleaning spree:
- Save storage space – Especially important if you’re on a hosting plan with limited resources.
- Speed up your site – Less junk means better performance.
- Stay organized – No more endless scrolling to find that one image.
- Backups get lighter – Fewer files mean faster, lighter backups.
Alright, let’s roll up our sleeves and get started!
The Easy Way: Use a Plugin 🤖
No scary code. No risky detective work. Just a simple plugin that does the heavy lifting for you.
That plugin is called Media Cleaner.
It scans your WordPress site for unused media files and helps you delete them safely.
Step 1: Install the Plugin
Here’s how:
- Head to your WordPress dashboard.
- Go to Plugins > Add New.
- Search for Media Cleaner.
- Click Install Now and then Activate.
Easy peasy!
Step 2: Run a Scan
Once the plugin is active, follow these steps:
- Go to Meow Apps > Media Cleaner in your sidebar.
- Click the Scan button.
The plugin will now check your media library to find any images that aren’t being used anywhere—no posts, pages, or even custom fields.
Note: The free version covers most use cases. If you have files inside complex plugins or themes, the Pro version might be worth it.
Step 3: Delete Unused Images
After the scan is complete, you’ll see a list of images that are not in use.
You can delete them individually or in bulk. There’s a handy check-all box too.
Make sure to review the list before deleting – just in case there’s something you missed.
Then click Delete. That’s it!
Bonus Tip: Backup First!
Before you delete anything, always make a backup. Better safe than sorry!
You can use a plugin like UpdraftPlus or BackupBuddy.
If something goes wrong, you’ll be glad to have a safety net.
Other Handy Features of Media Cleaner
- Trash system – Deleted files go into a trash bin. Restore them if needed.
- Advanced scanning – The Pro version checks for media in custom fields, galleries, and page builders.
- Dry mode – Preview files for deletion without actually removing them.
Basically, it’s a media ninja. Silent, deadly, and careful.
Alternative Plugins You Can Use
If Media Cleaner isn’t your vibe, here are some other cool options:
- Media Deduper – Finds and merges duplicate images.
- WP-Optimize – Includes image cleaning plus caching and database optimization in one tool.
- DNUI (Delete Not Used Image) – Lightweight but effective cleaner.
All of these have free versions and are easy to use.
Can I Do It Without a Plugin?
Yes, but it’s the hard way. It involves:
- Manually checking each file in your Media Library
- Cross-referencing with posts and pages
- Taking the risk of deleting something important by mistake
It’s like trying to find a needle in a haystack. 🧵
If you’re a code ninja or like living dangerously, go ahead. But for most users, plugins are safer and faster.
What About Image Sizes?
WordPress makes multiple copies of each image in different sizes—thumbnail, medium, large, etc.
When you delete an image, the unused image sizes (or “thumbnails”) get deleted too. Yay!
Want to delete unused image sizes too? The Regenerate Thumbnails plugin can help remove excess sizes and keep only what your theme needs.
How Often Should I Clean?
Good question!
Here’s a general rule of thumb:
- Monthly if you upload a lot of media regularly.
- Quarterly if your media uploads are more occasional.
- Before major backups or migrations.
Set a reminder. Make it a habit. Your future self will thank you.
Final Thoughts 🌟
Cleaning up unused images in WordPress doesn’t have to be stressful.
With tools like Media Cleaner, you can clear out clutter with just a few clicks.
Here’s a quick recap:
- Install a media cleaner plugin
- Scan your library
- Review and delete unused images
- Always have a backup (Just in case!)
A clean media library means a faster site and a happier you.
So go ahead, start fresh. It’s time to give those unused images the boot!
Happy cleaning! 🎉