So, I got a new Mac.
Instead of using Time Machine or Migration Assistant, I moved all my data manually. Clean install, fresh start — love that feeling.
But there was one annoying thing: iCloud Drive.
All the random old folders and leftover files from my previous Mac were still hanging around. I didn’t want that. I wanted a completely empty iCloud Drive, ready to sync only what I actually need.
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Turns out, deleting just iCloud Drive data isn’t that obvious
If you poke around in iCloud settings on Mac or Finder, there’s no clear “Reset iCloud Drive” button. And honestly, deleting stuff from Finder feels risky — I didn’t want to accidentally nuke local files too.
After some digging, I found the easiest (and safest) way: use the Files app on iPhone.
The easiest way: Delete everything from the Files app on iPhone
Here’s what worked perfectly for me:
- Open the Files app on iPhone
- Go to Browse → iCloud Drive
- Select all folders and files → Delete
- Go to Recently Deleted → Delete everything again for permanent removal
Done. After a while, your iCloud Drive will show up empty everywhere — Mac, iPad, whatever.
Things to keep in mind
- This only clears iCloud Drive. It won’t touch your Photos, Contacts, Notes, or anything else.
- Deleting from the Files app only affects iCloud Drive in the cloud — not local files on your Mac.
- If you had a lot of data, it might take some time to sync across devices. Be patient.
- Make sure to empty Recently Deleted to actually free up storage space.
Final thoughts
If you ever want to wipe your iCloud Drive clean — especially after moving to a new Mac — using the Files app on iPhone is by far the easiest and cleanest method.
Way less stressful than messing around in Finder.
Perfect for anyone doing a fresh start or decluttering their digital life.
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