Introduction: Why Can’t You Fully Remove PatchCleaner?
If you’ve tried uninstalling PatchCleaner, you may have noticed that even after running the standard uninstaller:
- Leftover configuration files remain
- Registry entries still exist in the system
- Temporary folders or logs are not deleted
- Integration with third-party tools like Revo Uninstaller persists
PatchCleaner is a small but powerful utility used to clean up old Windows Installer patch files (.msp) and temporary update data left behind by software updates. While it’s safe and effective for cleaning, it can be tricky to fully remove due to how it integrates with system settings and other uninstall tools.
In this guide, we’ll:
- Explain why PatchCleaner leaves behind traces
- Provide 6 professional methods to completely remove it
- Include a success rate for each method
- Help you prepare your system for switching to alternative cleanup tools
Let’s dive into the details!
What Makes PatchCleaner Difficult to Remove?
Understanding why PatchCleaner doesn’t uninstall cleanly helps you choose the best removal strategy:
| Cause | Description |
|---|---|
| 📁 Configuration Files | Stores user preferences and logs in hidden directories |
| 🔐 Registry Entries | Registers itself as an external tool in some uninstallers |
| 💾 Portable Version Traces | If used in portable mode, no formal uninstaller exists |
| 🧩 Integration with Revo / Other Tools | May leave hooks if used as an add-on |
Now let’s explore how to overcome these challenges effectively.
Method 1: Use Windows Settings to Uninstall – Success Rate: ~40%
This is the most basic method users try first.
✅ Steps:
- Press
Win + Ito open Settings - Go to Apps > Installed Apps
- Find PatchCleaner, click Uninstall
- Follow on-screen instructions
🛠️ Why It Works:
Removes the main application interface but often fails to delete registry keys or integration modules.
Method 2: Use Revo Uninstaller (Free/Paid) – Success Rate: ~95%
Revo Uninstaller scans for leftovers after uninstallation and removes them safely.
✅ Steps:
- Download and install Revo Uninstaller
- Launch the app and find PatchCleaner
- Select Uninstall
- After uninstall completes, run an Advanced Scan to remove residual files, folders, and registry keys
🛠️ Why It Works:
Combines forced uninstall with deep scanning to eliminate stubborn remnants like registry keys and integration hooks.
Method 3: Manually Delete Remaining Files & Folders – Success Rate: ~70%
Some files are not deleted due to permission or lock issues.
✅ Steps:
- Navigate to:
C:\Program Files\PatchCleanerC:\Users\<YourUser>\AppData\Roaming\PatchCleaner
- Right-click folder > Delete
- If access is denied:
- Take ownership via Properties > Security
- Or boot into Safe Mode before deleting
🛠️ Why It Works:
Ensures no hidden or protected files remain after uninstallation.
Method 4: Clean the Windows Registry – Success Rate: ~65%
Leftover registry entries can cause errors or interfere with future installations.
✅ Steps:
- Use a trusted registry cleaner like CCleaner or Wise Registry Cleaner
- Run a scan and select all PatchCleaner-related entries
- Backup the registry first (highly recommended)
- Delete selected entries
⚠️ Caution:
Always back up the registry before editing manually.
Method 5: Remove Integration with Revo or Other Tools – Success Rate: ~80%
PatchCleaner often adds itself as an external tool in apps like Revo Uninstaller or Geek Uninstaller.
✅ Steps:
- Open the third-party tool (e.g., Revo)
- Go to Options > External Tools
- Locate PatchCleaner and click Remove
- Restart the app to ensure changes take effect
🛠️ Why It Works:
Eliminates leftover integrations that could confuse your system or appear in menus.
Method 6: Boot in Safe Mode and Uninstall – Success Rate: ~80%
Safe Mode disables background processes that may lock PatchCleaner files or services.
✅ Steps:
- Restart your PC and press
F8or holdShiftwhile clicking Restart - Go to Troubleshoot > Advanced Options > Startup Settings > Restart
- Press
F4or5to enter Safe Mode - Try uninstalling PatchCleaner using any previous method
🛠️ Why It Works:
Prevents PatchCleaner from locking its own files and services during uninstallation.
✅ Summary Table: PatchCleaner Uninstall Methods & Success Rates
| Method | Success Rate | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 🖥️ Use Windows Settings | ~40% | Quick partial removal |
| 🔍 Use Revo Uninstaller | ~95% | Removing all traces automatically |
| 📁 Manual File Deletion | ~70% | Cleaning up leftover folders |
| 🧹 Registry Cleanup | ~65% | Fixing system errors from leftover keys |
| 🔌 Remove Tool Integrations | ~80% | Eliminating external hooks |
| 🛡️ Safe Mode Uninstall | ~80% | Unlocking protected files |
Conclusion: Achieve a Clean PatchCleaner Removal
Uninstalling PatchCleaner completely requires more than just the standard uninstaller. By combining multiple methods — especially the Revo Uninstaller and manual file cleanup — you can ensure your system is truly free of its components.
For best results:
- Start with the Revo Uninstaller
- Then manually check for remaining files or registry entries
- Optionally, use Safe Mode if files are locked
- Always remove external integrations if you use tools like Revo
With these steps, you’ll be ready to switch to modern alternatives like CCleaner, Wise Disk Cleaner, or continue managing patches directly through Windows Update Cleanup.
📌 Pro Tip: Save this article for future reference or share it with friends who are struggling with PatchCleaner removal. Want a downloadable checklist or need help automating some of these steps via PowerShell scripts? Feel free to ask!