CleanMyMac, created by MacPaw in 2008, is a popular tool for keeping your Mac running smoothly. It cleans junk files, protects against malware, and helps manage your apps. But maybe the renewal fee caught you by surprise, or you're just not using it enough to justify the cost. It happens. With subscriptions ranging from $39.95 to $89.95, canceling can save you up to $89.95 a year. This guide covers canceling on your desktop, which is the main way to do it. Honestly, with everyone talking about "digital minimalism" these days, it makes sense to question every subscription, even the ones meant to keep things tidy. Let's get this done.
How to Cancel CleanMyMac Subscription on Desktop (via MacPaw Website)
This is for you if you bought CleanMyMac directly from the MacPaw website. You'll need to log into your account, which can sometimes be a pain if you forgot which email you used.
1 Go to Your MacPaw Account
First, head over to the MacPaw account login page. If you're already logged in, great. If not, you'll need your email and password.
2 Find Your Subscription
Once you're in, look for the subscription card for CleanMyMac X. It should show your plan details. I had to look around for a second, it wasn't immediately obvious.
3 Click to Manage Subscription
Under your CleanMyMac X plan, there should be a button or link that says something like 'Manage Subscription' or has a little gear icon. Click that.
4 Turn Off Auto-Renewal
You'll be taken to your subscription details. Find the option to Cancel Subscription or Turn Off Auto-Renewal. They mean the same thing. They might ask you why you're leaving. Just pick a reason.
5 Confirm the Cancellation
You'll have to confirm that you really, really want to cancel. Click the final confirmation button. Done. You should get an email confirming it's been cancelled.
How to Cancel CleanMyMac Subscription on Desktop (via Mac App Store)
If you subscribed through the Mac App Store, you have to cancel it through Apple's system. It's a bit buried, which is classic Apple, but straightforward once you find it.
1 Open the App Store
Launch the App Store on your Mac. Simple enough.
2 Click Your Profile
Look for your name or profile picture in the bottom-left corner of the App Store window and click it.
3 Go to Account Settings
At the top of the page, click on Account Settings. You might need to enter your Apple ID password here. Annoying, but necessary.
4 Find the Subscriptions Section
Scroll down until you see the 'Manage' section. Find Subscriptions and click the Manage link next to it. Why this isn't easier to find is beyond me.
5 Cancel CleanMyMac
A list of your active and expired subscriptions will pop up. Find CleanMyMac X, click Edit, and then click Cancel Subscription. Confirm your choice, and you're all set.
Cancel CleanMyMac Subscription with email
You can contact MacPaw support by filling out the contact form on their website. They usually respond within 24-48 hours. Be clear that you want to cancel your subscription and include the email address you used to purchase it.
Cancel CleanMyMac Subscription with live chat
MacPaw has a live chat option on their support page. You'll likely talk to a bot first, which is a bit of a time-waster. Just type 'talk to a human' or 'live agent' to get past it. The chat is usually available during standard business hours.
Before you hit cancel, here's the deal. Your data isn't really at risk, since the app works locally on your Mac. Canceling just stops future payments. MacPaw offers a 30-day money-back guarantee on your first purchase, so if you're within that window, you can get a refund. After that? You're probably out of luck for any partial refunds. Also, there's no "pause" button for this subscription; you either have it or you don't.
CleanMyMac Plans and Pricing 2025
| Plan | Price (per year) | Details |
|---|---|---|
| CleanMyMac X (1 Mac) | $39.95 | Annual subscription for one computer. Includes all features and regular updates. |
| CleanMyMac X (2 Macs) | $59.95 | Annual subscription for two computers. A better value if you have a desktop and a laptop. |
| CleanMyMac X (5 Macs) | $89.95 | Annual subscription for up to five Macs. Best for families or small businesses. |
| One-time Purchase | $89.95 | A single payment for a lifetime license for one Mac. Note: Major version upgrades may require a new purchase. |
Frequently Asked Questions about CleanMyMac
Can I unsubscribe from CleanMyMac anytime?
Can I get a refund from CleanMyMac if I forgot to cancel?
How do I know my CleanMyMac subscription is cancelled?
How long does it take for CleanMyMac to cancel?
What else should I know before I cancel my CleanMyMac subscription?
How do I raise a complaint to CleanMyMac?
Rachel Adams
Technology & Software Editor
Rachel Adams is the Lead Tech & App writer at Pine AI, where she decodes the complexities of the digital software landscape. With over eight years of experience as a software reviewer and tech journalist, her work focuses on the security, usability, and subscription models of popular apps and SaaS platforms. Rachel's insights empower consumers to make informed decisions, avoid predatory billing, and select software that genuinely adds value.
