Updated September 2026: in 2021 I found files disappearing from my iCloud folders on my Mac, and there seemed to be no option to keep them on the device. The cause was iCloud's storage optimisation. I have rewritten it into a guide to keeping iCloud Drive files available offline on a Mac.
Files I stored in iCloud Drive kept vanishing from my Mac, seemingly at random. I later worked out that macOS was removing local copies to save space, whatever free space the disk had. I could not see a way to keep particular files permanently on the Mac.
Why do iCloud files disappear from a Mac?
When "Optimise Mac Storage" is turned on, macOS keeps files in iCloud and removes the local copy of ones you have not opened recently. They show with a cloud icon and download when you open them. The files are not deleted; they are simply not stored locally.
How do you keep files on the Mac?
- Keep Downloaded: on recent macOS versions, right-click a file or folder in iCloud Drive and choose Keep Downloaded.
- Turn off optimisation: in System Settings, under your Apple Account, iCloud, then iCloud Drive, turn off Optimise Mac Storage to keep everything local, if you have the space.
- Download Now: for a one-off, right-click and download before going offline.
Does this happen with other services?
Yes. OneDrive's Files On-Demand and Google Drive's streaming mode work the same way, with options to keep chosen files offline.
What should you keep offline?
Files you need when travelling or without internet, and active projects you open often. Archives can stay in the cloud.
Is iCloud Drive a backup?
No. It syncs, so deleting a file removes it everywhere after a short recovery period. Use Time Machine as well.
What if a file will not download?
Check your internet connection and free disk space, then try opening the file again. If iCloud seems stuck, signing out and back in to iCloud on the Mac usually resets syncing, though large libraries take time to resync.
How do you recover a deleted iCloud file?
Sign in to iCloud.com and check Recently Deleted in iCloud Drive; files stay there for a limited time.
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