How to Install BleachBit on Ubuntu 24.04, 22.04 or 20.04

This guide will demonstrate how to install BleachBit on Ubuntu 24.04, 22.04, or 20.04 LTS using the command-line terminal. It covers two main methods: APT via Ubuntu’s default repository, which is recommended as the first option, and alternatively, downloading and installing via the archive. As a third installation option, it also explains utilizing Flatpak with the Flathub repository.

BleachBit is a powerful tool designed to free disk space, safeguard your privacy, and clean your system. It efficiently removes unnecessary files to optimize performance and maintain the integrity of your device. With its straightforward user interface and robust cleaning capabilities, BleachBit is a go-to choice for users looking to keep their Ubuntu systems lean and secure.

Here’s what makes BleachBit stand out For Ubuntu desktop users:

• Efficient System Cleaning: Quickly removes temporary files and cleans cache to free up valuable disk space.
• Privacy Protection: Deletes cookies, internet history, and other traces to protect your personal information.
• Open Source and Free: Transparent and cost-free software, ensuring trust and continuous improvement.
• Cross-Platform: Available for both Linux and Windows, making it a versatile tool for various users.
• Customizable Cleaning Options: Allows for tailored cleaning sessions to fit your specific needs.
• Supports Multiple Languages: Accessible to a global user base with its multi-language support.
• Easy to Use: Simple interface, making it accessible to users of all technical levels.
• Extensible through Cleaners: Supports custom cleaners, enhancing its flexibility and utility.

Now, let’s move into the technical aspects of installing BleachBit on your Ubuntu system, starting with the most straightforward method and exploring alternatives to suit every user’s needs.

Install BleachBit on Ubuntu via APT

Update the Ubuntu System Before the BleachBit Installation

Before starting the installation process, updating your Ubuntu system is essential. This ensures that all packages are up-to-date, minimizing the chances of conflicts during the installation. To update your system, execute the following command:

sudo apt update

Once the update process is complete, proceed to upgrade any outdated packages by running the following command:

sudo apt upgrade

This step ensures your system is most stable and secure before installing BleachBit.

Install BleachBit on Ubuntu via APT Command

BleachBit is available in Ubuntu’s default APT repositories, simplifying installation. To install BleachBit on your Ubuntu desktop, execute the following command:

sudo apt install bleachbit -y

This command retrieves and installs the BleachBit package from the official Ubuntu repositories. The -y flag automatically confirms the installation, streamlining the process.

Install BleachBit on Ubuntu via Flatpak and Flathub

This section will explore an alternative method to install BleachBit using the Flatpak package manager. Flatpak is a popular option, similar to Snap, and is featured across many Linux distributions as a third-party installation package manager for obtaining the latest packages.

Note: If your system does not have Flatpak installed, please refer to our own guide on “How to Install Flatpak on Ubuntu” for step-by-step instructions on installing the most recent supported version of Flatpak.

Enable Flathub Before BleachBit Installation

Before installing BleachBit through Flatpak, you must enable the Flathub repository, a primary source for Flatpak applications. To enable Flathub, execute the following command in your terminal:

sudo flatpak remote-add --if-not-exists flathub https://flathub.org/repo/flathub.flatpakrepo

This command adds the Flathub repository to your Flatpak configuration, ensuring you have access to various applications, including BleachBit.

Install BleachBit on Ubuntu via Flatpak Command

With Flathub enabled, you can now install BleachBit using the flatpak install command. Run the following command in your terminal:

flatpak install flathub org.bleachbit.BleachBit

This command installs BleachBit on your system using Flatpak, giving you an alternative installation method for this helpful cleaning tool.

Launch BleachBit on Ubuntu via CLI or GUI

Once you’ve successfully installed BleachBit on your Ubuntu system, you can launch the application and use its powerful features. There are several ways to launch BleachBit, and we’ll explore two common methods.

CLI Methods to Launch BleachBit

For those who prefer working with the command line or already have a terminal window open, you can quickly launch BleachBit with the following command:

bleachbit

This command starts the BleachBit application, allowing you to access its features directly from the terminal. Alternatively, if you installed BleachBit using Flatpak, use the following alternative command:

flatpak run org.bleachbit.BleachBit

GUI Method to Launch BleachBit

If you prefer using the graphical user interface (GUI) and don’t have a terminal window open, you can quickly locate and launch the BleachBit application through the following path:

Activities > Show Applications > BleachBit

First-Time Tips with BleachBit on Ubuntu

Once you have successfully launched BleachBit, it’s time to familiarize yourself with its interface and start using its features to clean and optimize your system.

Configure BleachBit Settings

Upon opening BleachBit, you’ll be greeted with a configuration menu where you can customize its settings to suit your preferences. You can leave the default settings in place, but remember that you can always fine-tune these settings later.

Select Cleaning Options with BleachBit

With the configuration menu set, you can now browse the left-side list to select the various cleaning options available in BleachBit. Take your time to review each option, as these determine which files and data will be cleaned from your system.

By carefully selecting the appropriate cleaning options, you can ensure your system remains optimized and clutter-free.

Additional BleachBit Commands with Ubuntu

This section will cover additional BleachBit commands that are useful for Ubuntu Linux users. We will discuss how to update and remove BleachBit from your system.

Update BleachBit

For most desktop users, BleachBit should update automatically with your system packages when using the APT package manager. However, if you want to check for updates manually, you can execute the following command in your terminal:

sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade

Lastly, use the following command for any user that installed Bleachbit using the Flatpak method.

flatpak update

These commands ensure that you’re using the latest version of BleachBit, which often contains bug fixes, improvements, and new features.

Remove BleachBit

If you decide that you no longer need BleachBit on your system and want to delete the software, follow the appropriate method based on your installation:

APT BleachBit Remove Command:

Use the following command to remove BleachBit along with all associated unused dependencies and any saved data created by the software:

sudo apt remove bleachbit

Flatpak BleachBit Remove Command:

For users who installed BleachBit using the Flatpak method, execute the following command to remove the software:

flatpak uninstall com.github.bleachbit.BleachBit

Conclusion

In wrapping up, we’ve walked through installing BleachBit on Ubuntu, covering the bases from the recommended APT method to alternatives like downloading directly or using Flatpak. Our final word? Stick with the APT approach for simplicity and reliability, but don’t shy away from the other methods if you’re feeling adventurous. Remember, BleachBit is your go-to for keeping your system clean and your private stuff private. Give it a whirl, tailor it to your needs, and enjoy the cleaner, faster Ubuntu experience. Thanks for sticking with us to the end!