What is dot_clean MacOS command?

The dot_clean command on MacOS is a useful tool for cleaning up and merging .DS_Store metadata files from folders. This command helps to maintain directory organization and improve system performance by removing unnecessary clutter.

dot_clean Syntax:

dot_clean [-fm] [directory]

dot_clean Options:

Option	Description
-f	Force dot_clean to overwrite existing files.
-m	Merge ._* files with their corresponding parent files.

Caution

Use caution when using the dot_clean command as it can modify or delete files in the specified directory.

Parameters:

Parameter	Description
directory	The directory to clean of ._ files.

dot_clean Command Usage Examples:

Clean a Directory and Resolve Metadata Issues

dot_clean /path/to/directory

The dot_clean command can be used to clean a directory and resolve metadata-related issues.

Clean a Directory Recursively

dot_clean -r /path/to/directory

The option “-r” can be used with dot_clean to clean a directory recursively, cleaning all subdirectories as well.

Clean a Directory and Display Verbose Output

dot_clean -v /path/to/directory

Using the “-v” option with dot_clean will display verbose output, providing more detailed information about the cleaning process.

Clean a Directory and Preserve Read-Only Status

dot_clean -n /path/to/directory

The “-n” option can be used to clean a directory while preserving its read-only status.

Clean a Directory and Specify File Types to Clean

dot_clean -m pdf,jpg /path/to/directory

By using the “-m” option followed by specific file types (e.g., pdf, jpg), dot_clean can be instructed to clean only those file types within the directory.

Tip

When using the dot_clean command in MacOS, make sure to carefully read the available options and understand their impact on the target directory. It is recommended to test the command on a small subset of files or directories before running it on crucial data to avoid unintended consequences.

How do I use dot_clean in MacOS?

To use the dot_clean command in bash, execute the following command:

dot_clean /path/to/directory

What is the purpose of dot_clean in MacOS?

The dot_clean command is used to merge ._-prefixed files created by Mac OS with their original files.

How can dot_clean help resolve file incompatibility issues in MacOS?

Using dot_clean can help resolve file incompatibility issues in MacOS caused by ._ files that may have been created during file transfers.

How can I list the available options for the dot_clean command in MacOS?

To list the available options for the dot_clean command, you can use the following command:

dot_clean -h

How do I clean up a directory using dot_clean in MacOS?

To clean up a directory using dot_clean in MacOS, you can run the following command:

dot_clean -n /path/to/directory

Can dot_clean be used to recursively clean directories in MacOS?

Yes, dot_clean can be used to recursively clean directories in MacOS. You can achieve this by using the -r flag in the command.

How do I force dot_clean to overwrite existing files in MacOS?

To force dot_clean to overwrite existing files in MacOS, you can use the -f flag in the command. However, exercise caution when using this option as it can lead to data loss if not used carefully.

How do I use dot_clean to clean up a directory while preserving the original files in MacOS?

You can use the -n flag with the dot_clean command to perform a dry run and preview the changes without actually modifying the files.

dot_clean -n /path/to/directory

Applications of the dot_clean command

• Cleans up files on mounted volumes
• Removes ._ files and .DS_Store files from directories