Hiding rarely used folders means changing their visibility within your file browser to reduce clutter without deleting or moving them. This is managed through folder properties or view settings within your operating system, making the folder seem absent until special actions reveal it again. It differs from permanently deleting files as the folders remain accessible and unaffected on your storage drive.

This feature is commonly used in Windows File Explorer and macOS Finder. For instance, in Windows, you can mark a folder as "Hidden" via its properties menu to remove it from the standard view in Explorer. Alternatively, File Explorer's View settings allow users to automatically hide folders not accessed for months. Users often apply this to manage personal document archives, infrequent project resources, or large collections like old photos to maintain a cleaner workspace.

The main advantage is an uncluttered interface, enhancing focus by presenting only active items. However, finding hidden folders requires changing system view settings (like enabling "Show hidden files"), which can be temporarily confusing if forgotten. While this organization method is beneficial for personal productivity, it should not be mistaken for security – hidden folders are easily revealed and offer no protection. Relying on hiding can also potentially lead to disorganization if users forget the folders exist.