The short answer
Usually, after a check. Might hold something you care about. Look inside before removing it.
What is it?
Lima runs Linux virtual machines on macOS. Each instance has its own folder in ~/.lima (for example ~/.lima/default) containing its disk, configuration and logs. Folders starting with an underscore hold shared settings and are not instances. A disk is typically several GB.
Each Lima instance with its disk. Its files are lost when deleted.
What happens if you delete it?
No. A deleted instance is gone with everything inside it; you can create a new one from a template, but your changes and files are lost.
How to remove it properly
Run limactl list to see your instances, then limactl delete <name> to delete one you no longer use (add --force if it is running). This deletes permanently. limactl prune separately clears Lima’s download cache.
Use the tool’s official command: limactl delete <instance>
Before you delete it
Instances can contain your own files, databases and installed packages. Check before deleting.
How MoreRoom helps
MoreRoom recognises this item and labels it “Review first”: it shows what’s inside, its size and last use, so you can decide. Nothing is removed without your say, and everything goes to the Trash first, with Undo.
When the tool is installed, MoreRoom runs its official command for you (limactl delete <instance>) instead of deleting files — and tells you that this step can’t be undone.
Frequently asked questions
Is it safe to delete Lima virtual machines in ~/.lima?
Usually, after a check. Might hold something you care about. Look inside before removing it. No. A deleted instance is gone with everything inside it; you can create a new one from a template, but your changes and files are lost.
Will Lima virtual machines come back after I delete it?
No. No. A deleted instance is gone with everything inside it; you can create a new one from a template, but your changes and files are lost.
How do I remove Lima virtual machines properly?
Run limactl list to see your instances, then limactl delete <name> to delete one you no longer use (add --force if it is running). This deletes permanently. limactl prune separately clears Lima’s download cache.