Windows Print Spooler PRINTERS Folder (System32\spool\PRINTERS)

Bottom Line: It is 100% safe to delete all files inside C:\Windows\System32\spool\PRINTERS. Clearing this folder will NOT delete your printer drivers, scanner settings, or installed printers.

What is the PRINTERS Spool Folder?

Located at C:\Windows\System32\spool\PRINTERS, this hidden system directory is managed by the Windows Print Spooler Service (spoolsv.exe).

When you print a document or PDF, Windows renders the document into print spool files:

• .SPL Files: The actual print spool data (large PDF or graphics print jobs can be hundreds of megabytes).
• .SHD Files: Shadow settings files holding document metadata and printer settings.

When a printer jams, runs out of paper, or loses network connectivity, spool files get stuck in PRINTERS, blocking all future documents from printing.

Can You Delete Files in PRINTERS?

✅ Yes, it is completely safe to clear.

• Fixes stuck print jobs: Clearing PRINTERS is Microsoft’s standard fix when printer status says “Deleting…” or “Printing…” forever.
• Safety rule: Stop the Spooler service before deleting files so Windows unlocks active .SPL files.

How to Safely Clear PRINTERS Folder

Method 1: Delete via Command Prompt (Admin)

1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
2. Stop the Print Spooler service, clear files, and restart the service:

   net stop spooler
   del /f /q /s %WinDir%\System32\spool\PRINTERS\*
   net start spooler

Related Guides

• Learn about deleting [Windows Temp folder].
• How to clean up Catroot2 folder.
• Check if you can clean System32 folder.