Your clipboard might be revealing more than you realize. From copied passwords to private files, sensitive data often lingers in the background long after you’re done with it. Learning how to clear clipboard history on Windows 11 isn’t just about freeing memory—it’s about protecting your privacy.

If you’re unsure how to do that, this guide walks you through 8 simple and effective ways to clear your clipboard in Windows 11—whether you’re a power user or just want a cleaner workspace.

1. Clear Clipboard with the Clipboard History Panel

Windows 11 includes a Clipboard History tool that stores multiple items you’ve copied. You can wipe everything directly from this feature.

Press Windows + V to open the Clipboard panel.
Click the Clear All button at the top-right corner.

This method is fast and doesn’t require any settings changes. However, make sure to save anything important first—this deletes all entries immediately.

2. Use Windows Settings to Clear Clipboard Data

Another built-in method to clear clipboard data is through the Settings app:

Press Windows + I to open Settings.
Go to System > Clipboard.
Scroll to Clear Clipboard Data and click Clear.

This is ideal for users who prefer graphical interfaces over keyboard shortcuts.

3. Delete Clipboard Contents via Command Prompt

If you love quick commands or are writing a script, use this command to erase your clipboard:

echo off | clip

Here’s how:

Open Command Prompt (search cmd in Start).
Paste the command and press Enter.

This is the quickest command-line method and works without any extra setup.

4. Use PowerShell to Overwrite Clipboard Data

Want to replace clipboard contents without launching apps? PowerShell has a built-in solution:

Set-Clipboard -Value " "

Launch PowerShell from Start.
Run the above command.

This clears the clipboard by overwriting it with a blank space, making previous items irretrievable.

5. Create a Desktop Shortcut to Clear Clipboard

If you’re constantly clearing your clipboard, automate the task:

Right-click on the desktop > New > Shortcut
In the location field, enter: cmd /c "echo off | clip"
Name it something like Clear Clipboard and click Finish.

Double-click the icon anytime you want a fresh clipboard. You can also customize the icon to stand out more.

6. Overwrite Clipboard Manually

A practical trick is to simply copy random text to override what’s currently stored:

Open Notepad.
Type any gibberish.
Copy it using Ctrl + C.

Now, if someone pastes (Ctrl + V), they’ll only see the harmless junk text instead of sensitive info.

7. Log Out to Wipe Your Clipboard Automatically

Windows 11 clears the clipboard when you log out of your session:

Open Start.
Click your profile icon, then select Sign Out.

This is especially handy when using shared or public computers.

8. Restart Your PC for a Fresh Start

Need a clean slate? A quick restart wipes the clipboard too:

Open Start > click Power > choose Restart.

Make sure you’ve saved your work first. This method is often used alongside system updates or resets.

Bonus Tip: Disable Clipboard History for More Privacy

To prevent Windows from storing multiple clipboard items:

Go to Settings > System > Clipboard
Toggle off Clipboard History

Now, only your most recent copy will be remembered—less risk, more control.

Why Clearing Clipboard Matters

From passwords to payment info, we copy sensitive data more often than we think. If you’re working on a shared device, troubleshooting issues, or securing a corporate laptop, knowing how to clear clipboard on Windows 11 is essential for good privacy hygiene.