Still Using CCleaner in 2025? Here’s What I Think (Plus 3 Alternatives I Actually Like)

That’s where tools like CCleaner come in. They’ve been around for ages, promising a cleaner, faster PC with just a few clicks. But in 2025 — after all the updates, privacy concerns, and newer options — is it still the right pick?

Let’s talk honestly.

In this post, I’ll break down:

What CCleaner does well (and where it falls short)

My personal results cleaning a slow Windows 11 laptop

3 cleanup tools I’ve tested as solid alternatives

Who should still use CCleaner — and who might want to move on

👉 Want a full walkthrough with side-by-side comparisons and setup tips? I wrote it all here: Best PC Cleaner Tools Compared

🧽 Why People Still Use Tools Like CCleaner
CCleaner has stuck around for good reason. It’s easy, mostly free, and does a decent job with:

Junk file cleanup

Startup app management

Registry fixes (if you’re into that)

Space-saving with just one scan

For non-techy folks, it still “just works.” But… that doesn’t mean it’s perfect.

There are nags to upgrade, optional installs you probably don’t want, and some baggage from past privacy headlines. That said, if you’re careful, it still works well enough.

🛠️ Before You Use CCleaner: 3 Smart Tips
If you're still considering it, keep these in mind:

1. Skip the extras during install
   CCleaner’s setup sometimes sneaks in things like its own browser or Avast trial. Uncheck what you don’t need.

2. Use Health Check mode
   One-click to clean up cache, trackers, and speed up startup. It’s the fastest way to tidy things.

3. Explore the Startup Manager
   Disabling extra apps from auto-launching made my boot time drop by 40 seconds.

🔄 My Top 3 Alternatives (That Don’t Nag You Constantly)
I tested a handful of alternatives to see which ones could replace or even beat CCleaner — here are three that stood out.

🧼 BleachBit
Open-source and trusted by folks who value privacy. Think of it as CCleaner’s minimalist cousin.

✅ Pros:

No bloat, no ads, no tracking

Works well with browser and app junk

❌ Cons:

Interface is very barebones

Might confuse beginners

💨 Wise Disk Cleaner
Very CCleaner-like in layout, but feels a bit fresher and lighter.

✅ Pros:

Fast scans

Interface is beginner-friendly

Built-in defrag for HDD users

⚠️ Heads up:
Watch the installer and uncheck anything extra.

🧰 Glary Utilities
This is more than a cleaner — it’s a full PC maintenance suite.

✅ Pros:

One-click cleanup + optimization

Useful tools for broken shortcuts, software uninstalls, and memory boost

❌ Cons:

UI can feel a bit cluttered

Some tools open in separate windows

🧠 Final Thoughts: Should You Still Use CCleaner?
Here’s the deal:

If you just want a tool to clean up junk and move on, CCleaner still does the job.

But if you’re someone who wants more transparency, fewer pop-ups, or a less bloated experience, you’ve got real options now.

BleachBit is for privacy-focused folks. Wise Disk Cleaner is great for beginners. Glary is ideal for people who want an all-in-one toolbox.

➡️ Want to see screenshots, a comparison chart, and a step-by-step setup guide?
Check out this full review: CCleaner vs Top Free PC Cleaners (2025)