Deleting a ChatGPT chat doesn't delete your uploaded files — they stay in Library
Ok_Negotiation_2587 · reddit · 2026-10-04
ChatGPT now auto-saves every file you upload or create into the sidebar Library — documents, spreadsheets, images, anything. Per OpenAI's own help pages, deleting a chat does not delete the files in Library: the conversation with your contract or bank statement disappears, but the file remains and still shows up in recent files when attaching.
Cleanup tips:
- Open Library (web), review contents — usually more than expected;
- Deleted files sit in Recently deleted for up to 30 days unless you use Delete forever;
- Settings > Data controls > Delete all chats doesn't touch Library — treat it as a separate step.
The author's routine: export chats worth keeping, bulk-delete the rest, then clean Library manually.
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