How To Use The Git Clean Command?

The Git Clean command is used to clean the untracked files in the repository. If we want to remove the unwanted files then we can use the clean command in Git. When developers want to remove the untracked files in the working repository then this command is very helpful to them.

The use of the Git Clean command is as follows: 

  • git clean -n: to dry run.
  • git clean -f: forcefully file deletion.
  • git clean -f -x: delete .gitignore files
  • git clean -f -d: delete the untracked directories.

Git Clean Examples

There are certain limitations associated which are as follows: 

By default, it will not remove:

  • the .gitignore files
  • new directories which are created recently
  • index files.
  • existing commit files

Let us pictorially depict the above commands and interpret them via terminal/PowerShell as follows:  

Example 1: Using “git clean”

 

Example 2: Using “git clean -n”

 

Example 3: Using “git clean –force”

 

Example 4: Using “git status” (To check the status of files)

 

Example 5: Using “git clean -fdx”

Git – Clean

When working on a Git repository, it’s common to accumulate untracked files and directories over time. These can clutter your working directory and make it difficult to manage your project efficiently. The git clean command is a powerful tool that helps you remove these untracked files and directories, keeping your working directory clean and organized. This article will provide a comprehensive guide on how to use the git clean command effectively.

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