Reinstalling an app will use the same files, so removing left-overs is important if you want a clean install of an app, such as to fix a problem. You would be amazed at all the files that are left behind when you drag a Mac app to the Trash in the Dock and you should never remove apps that way if you really want a clean uninstall. Only if there is no uninstaller utility or Uninstall menu option should you drag files to the Trash to remove them. This may be provided as a separate app and the popular VirtualBox application comes with a VirtualBox_Unintall.tool which removes the app if you no longer need it.Īn app may have an Uninstall option on one of its menus or within its preferences. First look to see if an app has an uninstaller. It only works with some apps and you should not do this with all apps. The common advice to drag apps to the Trash to remove them is not always true.
Take uninstalling apps for example, you drag them to the Trash, right? Wrong! That leaves junk on the disk.