Question 1

How do I use docker-clean to remove all Docker images?

Accepted Answer

Use the command 'docker-clean images' to remove all tagged and untagged images along with stopped containers, dangling volumes, and networks. For a safe preview, add the -n flag for dry-run mode to list items without deletion.

Question 2

What's the difference between docker-clean and docker system prune?

Accepted Answer

Docker-clean offers more granular control with specific flags for different resource types and supports remote hosts, while 'docker system prune' is a built-in Docker command that removes all unused data by default but with less flexibility and no dry-run option by default.

Question 3

Can I schedule docker-clean to run automatically?

Accepted Answer

Docker-clean doesn't have built-in scheduling; you need to use external tools like cron jobs on Linux or task schedulers on other systems to automate its execution at regular intervals for ongoing maintenance.

Question 4

Is docker-clean safe to use in production environments?

Accepted Answer

It can be safe with careful use of dry-run mode to preview deletions and by targeting specific resources, but always test in a staging environment first as it permanently removes Docker artifacts without undo capabilities.

Question 5

How does docker-clean handle Docker Compose projects?

Accepted Answer

It doesn't have special handling for Compose; it cleans based on Docker's resource states, so it might remove containers or volumes still associated with compose services if they are stopped or dangling, potentially breaking service restarts.

Question 6

What are the risks of using docker-clean?

Accepted Answer

The main risk is accidental deletion of needed resources, especially with broad flags like 'all' or when connecting to remote hosts. Always use dry-run to verify and maintain backups of critical data.

Question 7

How to install docker-clean on Windows?

Accepted Answer

On Windows, you can use the curl install method in a compatible shell like Git Bash or WSL, or run it from a Docker container as described in the README, since it's a shell script and not natively supported on Windows without additional setup.

Docker Clean

What is Docker Clean?

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Frequently Asked Questions