How can I fix iCloud not syncing and filling up storage after merging users on my Mac?

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Level 1

4 points

How can I fix iCloud not syncing and filling up storage after merging users on my Mac?

I recently merged my 2 users into 1 so that I could free up space (20GB available on my 245GB MacBook Pro). Now every time I leave my laptop off for like more than 2 hours, iCloud doesn't sync (I'm not even sure if the issue is from iCloud) and all my files in there fills up my actual internal storage instantly all the way to 245GB. It fills up to the point where I cant take screenshots, open discord, or even do that much. I have to restart my laptop just for it to go back to 225GB storage. Its starting to get annoying to restart my laptop every day, Is there a way I can fix this issue?

[Re-Titled by Moderator]

Original Title: iCloud Not Syncing on Mac

MacBook Pro (M1, 2020)

Posted on Sep 26, 2025 1:17 AM

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Answer 1

Sep 26, 2025 8:08 AM in response to poseydestroy

Do you have Optimize turned on?

Have you tried setting files in iCloud Drive to "Remove Download?"

It's a right click on a file. Unfortunately, you have to do it file by file.

Why are you using iCloud Drive? iCloud Drive is designed so you have access to files from multiple devices. If you just want to store stuff, you might be better off using a portable SSD.

See this:

Understanding iCloud Drive - Apple Community

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Answer 2

muguy

Level 10

90,872 points

Sep 26, 2025 8:00 AM in response to poseydestroy

It sounds like iCloud is indeed syncing as you indicated that your files are downloading to your device and filling storage as expected.

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