BleachBit 4.6.0
BleachBit 4.6.0 Clean Deeper, Protect Smarter, Run Faster
In the ever-evolving world of system maintenance and privacy protection, BleachBit stands out as a free and open-source alternative to commercial cleaning tools like CCleaner. Whether you’re looking to reclaim disk space, boost performance, or protect sensitive data, BleachBit 4.6.0 delivers powerful results without a price tag.
The newly released version, BleachBit 4.6.0, builds on years of trusted performance with fresh improvements, updated cleaning rules, and broader compatibility. Let’s explore why BleachBit has become a must-have tool for tech-savvy users, privacy advocates, and everyday computer users alike.
What is BleachBit?
BleachBit is a lightweight yet powerful utility designed for system cleaning and privacy protection. Unlike many commercial cleaners, BleachBit is:
100% free
Open-source (licensed under GNU GPL)
Available for Windows and Linux
Focused on transparency, security, and efficiency
It goes beyond just deleting temporary files—it erases cache, logs, cookies, browser history, system junk, and even securely wipes free disk space to prevent data recovery.
What’s New in BleachBit 4.6.0?
Released in 2025, BleachBit 4.6.0 introduces several enhancements that make it more capable, stable, and accurate than ever before.
Updated Cleaning Definitions
Improved support for modern browsers like Chrome, Firefox, and Edge
New cleaning rules for applications like LibreOffice, GIMP, and VS Code
More accurate detection of application data paths
Bug Fixes & Performance
Resolved crashes related to Windows 11 22H2
Better Unicode support for international file names
Improved handling of symbolic links and locked files
UI Enhancements
Updated interface elements for better readability
Scalable icons and better support for high-DPI screens
These updates make BleachBit even more reliable for both new and experienced users.
Core Features of BleachBit 4.6.0
Here’s what makes BleachBit a powerful ally in maintaining your system:
1. Browser Cleaner
BleachBit can remove:
Cookies
Cache files
Internet history
Temporary downloads
Session data
Passwords (optional)
Supported browsers include:
Google Chrome
Mozilla Firefox
Microsoft Edge
Opera
Brave
Vivaldi
You have full control over what gets deleted—perfect for balancing privacy and convenience.
2. Application Junk Remover
BleachBit has built-in cleaners for over 70 applications, including:
Microsoft Office
VLC Media Player
GIMP
Skype
Thunderbird
LibreOffice
It removes clutter like recent file lists, crash reports, backups, and configuration remnants, all with a few clicks.
3. Deep System Cleaning
BleachBit handles:
System logs
Temporary files
Windows Defender history
Thumbnail cache
Clipboard history
Recycle Bin content
It’s like giving your system a proper spring cleaning without digging through folders manually.
4. File Shredder & Disk Wipe
Deleting a file doesn’t mean it’s gone. BleachBit provides:
Secure file deletion (shredding) – overwrites files to prevent recovery
Free space wiping – removes remnants of previously deleted files
Memory dump cleaning – erases crash dumps and hibernation files
These features are crucial if you're donating, selling, or recycling your device—or just care about your digital footprint.
5. Preview Before Clean
Worried about deleting something important? BleachBit’s preview mode lets you review the files before deletion. You’ll see how much space can be freed and what files will be affected.
6. Command-Line Interface (CLI)
For power users and system administrators, BleachBit offers a CLI to automate tasks, integrate into scripts, or clean multiple machines remotely.
This makes it a favorite in enterprise environments and among Linux users.
Why Choose BleachBit Over Others?
Here’s how BleachBit compares to popular tools like CCleaner:
Feature BleachBit 4.6.0 CCleaner (Free)
Cost Free Free / Paid
Open-source ✅ Yes ❌ No
Ads / Bloatware ❌ None ⚠️ Often bundled
File shredder ✅ Built-in ❌ Paid only
Linux Support ✅ Yes ❌ No
Tracking / Telemetry ❌ No ⚠️ Yes (limited opt-out)
Customizable Cleaners ✅ Yes ⚠️ Limited
If privacy, transparency, and minimalism matter to you—BleachBit is the clear winner.
System Requirements
For Windows:
Windows 7, 8, 10, 11 (32 & 64-bit)
~50MB of disk space
512MB RAM or higher
For Linux:
Available in .deb, .rpm, and source formats
Works on Ubuntu, Fedora, Arch, Mint, and more
No fancy specs required—BleachBit runs smoothly even on old machines.
Real-Life Use Cases
Use Case 1: Freeing Disk Space on an Old Laptop
John has an old Windows 10 laptop with only 128GB storage. After running BleachBit:
Removed over 2.1GB of browser junk
Deleted crash dumps and old logs
Shredded old temp files
Result: His system boots faster, runs cooler, and has more breathing room.
Use Case 2: Protecting Privacy on a Shared Computer
Emma shares a PC with her siblings. She runs BleachBit weekly to:
Erase browser history
Remove saved sessions
Clean clipboard contents
Now she feels safer knowing no sensitive browsing traces remain.
Use Case 3: Tech Admin Wipes Unwanted Data
Raj manages a computer lab in a school. Using the CLI mode, he:
Cleans 30+ machines overnight
Wipes student account traces
Saves hours compared to manual cleaning
Pros and Cons
Pros:
Totally free and open-source
Lightweight and fast
No ads, no telemetry
Deep cleaning capabilities
Secure file deletion
Cross-platform (Windows + Linux)
CLI for automation
Cons:
No built-in scheduler (manual or via task scheduler)
Interface may seem minimal for some users
No real-time monitoring like some premium tools
Needs caution—some options may delete useful caches if unchecked
Tips for New Users
Run as administrator for full system access
Always preview first to avoid deleting necessary files
Use custom cleaners if your app isn't listed
Combine with Windows Task Scheduler for auto-cleaning
Use file shredding before selling or giving away a device
Open Source = Trust
One of BleachBit’s biggest strengths is its open-source nature. Anyone can inspect its source code, contribute to development, or verify that there are no hidden tracking features. This transparency is rare in the world of system cleaners.
It’s even trusted by organizations like the U.S. Department of Defense, journalists, and security professionals.
Language and Localization
BleachBit is available in over 60 languages including:
English
Spanish
German
Arabic
French
Bengali
Hindi
Russian
Localization efforts are community-driven, meaning more languages are added with each release.
How to Download and Install
Go to the official BleachBit website
Download the installer for your OS
Run the setup file
Launch BleachBit as administrator for full functionality
It’s a fast and lightweight installation process—no registration required.
Final Verdict
If you're searching for a lightweight, effective, and private system cleaner, BleachBit 4.6.0 is an outstanding choice. Unlike commercial software that hides behind paywalls or collects user data, BleachBit is open, honest, and powerful.
It’s perfect for individuals, businesses, and even enterprise environments that need a reliable cleanup tool without breaking the bank—or compromising privacy.
So whether you’re decluttering your PC, erasing sensitive data, or automating fleet maintenance, BleachBit is the cleaner that does more, asks for less, and respects your control.