Read time 5 minutes
Outlook relies on a database file (PST) to maintain the structural hierarchy of the mailbox and its folders. While some folders like Inbox, Sent Items, and Draft are pre-built, users can create additional ones. As emails are sent and received, the database file naturally increases in size, occupying storage space and necessitating efficient space management.
Outlook users have various options for managing PST data, including exporting it to different locations, archiving items, manual deletion, or migration to other platforms. Prior to undertaking these actions, it’s advisable to clear the PST of empty folders and sub-folders, streamlining the process and eliminating unnecessary complications.
Empty folders in Outlook can be both frustrating and confusing. Not only do they occupy space, but they also disappoint users when no emails are found within them. During the process of exporting items from the Outlook PST file, these empty folders may also be transferred, which is undesirable. Folders devoid of any data serve no purpose in their new location. Let’s explore effective methods for permanently removing these empty folders.
Deleting a small number of empty folders in Outlook is a straightforward process. Users can easily remove an empty folder by right-clicking on it and selecting the ‘Delete Folder’ option from the context menu.
However, when dealing with a large number of empty folders in Outlook, the manual deletion method becomes impractical and time-consuming. Therefore, it’s essential to explore alternative solutions to address this issue more efficiently.
If you’re using Outlook PST 2019/2016 and are willing to proceed, follow the provided steps to delete empty folders from Outlook.
This VBA Macro Code is designed to remove all empty sub-folders within an Outlook folder. Let’s break down the process step by step.
If xFldr.Items.Count < 1 Then ‘If the folder is empty check for subfolders
If xFldr.Folders.Count < 1 Then ‘If the folder contains not sub folders confirm deletion
xFldr.Delete ‘Delete the folder
xFlag = True
xCount = xCount + 1
Else ‘Folder contains sub folders so confirm deletion
FolderPurge xFldr.Folders, xFlag, xCount
End If
Else ‘Folder contains items or (subfolders that may be empty).
FolderPurge xFldr.Folders, xFlag, xCount
End If
Next
End If
End Sub
This method requires a technical approach and should be followed meticulously to ensure precise results.
Identifying and manually deleting empty folders and sub-folders in Outlook can be a challenging task. We recommend an automated solution: the Kernel Outlook PST Reporter tool. This tool thoroughly scans your Outlook profile, generating detailed reports that include information about PST folder items, folder size, item types, and more. By pinpointing folders with zero file items, it simplifies the process of manual empty folder deletion, making it a more efficient task. This tool streamlines empty folder management for Outlook users.
In addition to identifying empty folders, the software generates multiple reports that offer valuable insights into Outlook data. Users can access crucial information, including read/unread message counts, email attachment types, sizes, and quantities. Visit our website to download this versatile tool for free and gain comprehensive control over your Outlook data management.
This blog addresses the issues caused by empty folders in the Outlook application and provides two genuine solutions for their permanent deletion, complete with step-by-step procedures. Additionally, a straightforward solution is introduced to help users identify empty folders within the Outlook PST file efficiently.
The article is well-structured and organized, with clear headings and subheadings that make it easy to navigate. I would highly recommend this article to anyone who wants to clean up their Outlook inbox and get rid of empty folders.