Spring clean your devices and
save money in a few easy steps
Spring cleaning isn’t just for closets and junk drawers. Your digital life could probably use a refresh, too.
From sluggish phones to overflowing storage and forgotten subscriptions, a little device cleanup can boost performance, keep your devices protected, and even save you money. Follow the tips below to get started.
Get rid of unused apps
Look through your phone, computer, or other smart devices for apps you haven’t used in a while. Many apps run in the background even when they aren’t open, using memory or data.
Start with apps you haven’t opened in more than three months or ones you don’t remember using. You can always download them again if needed. On your smartphone, open the settings to view all downloaded apps and see more detailed information.
Clean out digital space
Just like wiping down your countertops or dusting off old clutter, your devices hold temporary files that can slow things down. On your smartphone or tablet, open your internet app and clear the cache to remove data from recently visited websites.
You can do the same on your computer and take it a step further in File Explorer. Look for duplicate documents or files in your Downloads folder that you no longer need. Be sure to check Google Drive, iCloud, or Dropbox for outdated files you can delete.
Keep your network secure
It may be tempting to use one password for multiple accounts and forget about it. However, you should use a unique password for every account. Changing your passwords annually is also a good idea as it limits the time a hacker may know your credentials and improves overall security.
You can also strengthen security by regularly updating your devices. Over time, companies improve both security and performance. Check your smartphones, tablets, computers, TVs, printers, and other internet-connected devices to ensure they are running current software and firmware.
Golden West remotely updates the firmware for any router it leases on a regular basis. However, if you purchased your own router, you must update your firmware with each new release.
Save money on subscriptions
Many people have more subscriptions than they realize. Take time to review your bank or credit card statements and look for recurring charges you no longer need.
Make a list of these charges and their costs to calculate your monthly total. Some services increase prices without clear notice. Cancel subscriptions for streaming services, apps, and other platforms you no longer use enough to justify the cost.
A little goes a long way
Digital cleaning can be tedious, but it is just as important as other spring cleaning. It can free up space, improve device performance, and even save money. If it feels overwhelming, tackle it over a few weeks – a little cleaning here and there adds up quickly.
