Tired of your downloads folder turning into a giant pile of random files?
Here’s how to automatically sort downloads into folders as soon as they arrive — no manual dragging needed.
✅ 1. Use browser settings (basic method)
Most browsers let you:
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Set a specific folder for each type
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Or always “Ask where to save”
✅ Chrome/Firefox/Edge:
Settings → Downloads → Enable “Ask where to save each file.”
✅ 2. Use “Downloads Organizer” extensions
Try browser add-ons like:
-
Downloads Router (Chrome)
-
Download Sort (Firefox)
✅ Automatically sort files based on type (e.g., .zip to Installers folder).
✅ 3. Use File Explorer’s built-in libraries
Create:
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Documents → Downloads → Documents
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Pictures → Downloads → Pictures
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Installers → Downloads → Installers
Then manually drag based on file type periodically.
✅ Simple but effective without extra tools.
✅ 4. Use automation tools (advanced)
Set up rules using:
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DropIt (free, Windows)
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Belvedere (old but still useful)
Rules like:
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If
.pdf→ move to Documents folder -
If
.mp4→ move to Videos folder
✅ Full auto-sorting without thinking.
✅ 5. Set download location per website (expert tip)
Some browsers/extensions let you:
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Set download location based on source site
Example:
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Downloads from
ninite.com→ Software folder -
Downloads from
pexels.com→ Pictures folder
Key points to remember
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Browser settings = easy manual organization
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Extensions = simple file-type-based auto-sorting
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Automation apps = full download folder autopilot
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Organizing at download time saves tons of cleanup later