When your account approaches its disk limit, new files, emails, and database writes can start to fail. Here is how to find what is using space and reclaim it safely.
Step 1: See What Is Using Space
- Log in to cPanel
- In the Files section, click Disk Usage
- Review the breakdown by directory and by email account
This shows your biggest consumers at a glance.
Common Space Hogs
Old Backups
Backups stored in your home directory count toward your quota. Download them locally, then delete the server copies.
Large Email Mailboxes
Old emails with attachments add up. In Email Accounts, check mailbox sizes and clear large or old messages, especially from Sent and Trash.
Log Files and Caches
WordPress error logs, debug logs, and caches can grow large. Clear caching plugin folders and remove old error_log files via File Manager.
Unused Files and Installs
Delete old test sites, unused subdomains, and forgotten ZIP uploads in public_html.
Step 2: Empty the Trash
After deleting files in File Manager, empty the Trash so the space is actually reclaimed.
Step 3: Optimise Databases
In phpMyAdmin, run Optimize table on bloated tables, especially WordPress post revisions and spam comments.
Tip: If you are consistently near your limit after cleanup, it may be time to upgrade your plan rather than constantly managing space.
Need help identifying what to remove? Open a ticket via the /contact page with your domain name.