Workflow Guide
A safer cleanup process for client sites and production media libraries
Short version
Use the Analysis tab first, the Cleanup tab second, verify after Trash, and regenerate from the Optimize tab only when there is a real missing-size need.
When to use analysis
Use the Analysis tab before any big cleanup. It helps you understand which image sizes are consuming space and whether orphan or unused media exists.
When to use preview
Use Preview Cleanup in the Cleanup tab any time you are about to remove files. This is especially important on sites with custom themes, page builders, or imported legacy media.
When Trash is safer than deletion
Trash is the best default when you work on a live site, a client site, or a library with mixed historical content. It lets you reverse the change without pulling from backup immediately.
When to regenerate
Use the Optimize tab only after confirming a size is needed. Rebuilding missing derivatives is useful after restoring a workflow, enabling a size again, or migrating a theme that expects specific dimensions.
Suggested operating checklist
- Run analysis from the Analysis tab and review size analytics.
- Limit your first Cleanup tab preview to one size or one folder.
- Move matching files to Trash.
- Check a few representative posts or products.
- Restore if anything unexpected appears.
- Regenerate missing sizes from the Optimize tab for approved dimensions.