Is it safe to delete Document versions?
Earlier versions of documents that apps like Pages, TextEdit and Preview save as you work, so you can go back to them.
Managed by macOS
macOS manages it. It's never moved to the Trash.
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What it is
When an app that supports versions saves a document, macOS keeps the earlier version in a hidden .DocumentRevisions-V100 folder at the top of the disk. You see them by choosing File > Revert To > Browse All Versions in the app. The folder is usually small, but it grows when you edit large documents often. Only macOS changes it.
If it's removed
Removed versions can't be recovered, and they aren't part of your Time Machine backups.
What to do instead
To remove a version, open the document, choose File > Revert To > Browse All Versions, and select the version. Then move the pointer to the top of the screen and choose File > Revert To > Delete This Version.
The free analyzer finds it and explains it, with these steps. The app doesn't remove it for you.
Sources
- support.apple.com/guide/mac-help/mh40710/mac
- eclecticlight.co/2025/09/08/managing-macos-versioning-and-the-documentrevisions-v100-folder
Last checked on 26 Sep 2026. Every entry is written and checked by hand; the app and the command-line tool use the same words.