My Windows 10 laptop has gone completely haywire. I have tried several 'so called' pc cleaners but they mostly seemed to make things worse. Can anyone recommend one that really works ??--- would be very grateful --- Peter

What "cleaners" did you install and where did you get them?

The first thing to find out is whether they're actually "legitimate" programs and not malware.

Assuming they're not deliberately harmful, if any of these "cleaners" include an antivirus that does real-time scanning, they'll fight with each other and interfere with Windows. You should only have one antivirus doing real-time scanning at a time.

So assuming the "cleaners" are not harmful and your computer is not infected, uninstall all the "cleaners" and see if things are any better. What was the reason you felt the need to use a "cleaner" in the first place? Was Windows acting up before you installed the "cleaners?"

You may have to back up your important files and reformat/reinstall Windows -- or take the computer to a computer doctor for cleaning. There's no automatic way to do anything but the simplest type of cleaning other than what Windows does itself.

I have a feeling the last thing you needed was a "pc cleaner." I'd agree with Jenny - uninstall all of these programs. I would also be curious as to which ones you have.

I've just been using Avast and Sparktrust----The latter took all one morning and then all my start-ups and shotcuts were missing -- Avast seemed to do nothing---perhaps I need a new computer--it is quite old -- Peter.

Sparktrust has been considered a malicious application in the past... It had many complaints at the BBB (Better Business Bureau), but they say they have all been resolved. It appears they may have tried to clean up their act, but I would not trust this application. My advice would be to uninstall it immediately.

http://spywareremovers.com/how-to-remove-sparktrust-pc-cleaner

You say your Avast isn't working either. What does that mean?

You should Never Ever use any Cleaning products on your *Windows 10 machine unless you absolutely know what you are doing, too many people Destroy their machines because of this. When you say "Avast seemed to do nothing" are you saying that you have Virus' or Malware? because Avast is Not a Cleaner, Avast protects you against Badies.

*Windows 10 is very fussy of what kind of applications you install on your machine because it is trying to make itself more robust than the previous versions so be careful what you install for quick fixes, when one has troubles with their machine, It is always best to Ask Advice Before doing anything...

I wish you the best of luck in fixing your laptop and I am sure the experts in this Great Forum will be able to help you out.

Thanks to all of you for your very welcome advice -- in view of all your doubts .. I will uninstall both the cleaners that I have mentioned and consider what to do next -- thanks again -- I always get and respect all the expert replies from a great team -- Peter

As Starcom says, Avast is not a cleaner - it is an anti-virus program, so don't uninstall that.

Starcom,
I second your emotion concerning these "cleaners". I have found out the hard way, that "If it ain't broke, don't fix it".
Sandy

Thanks Sanford and I agree with you re: "If it ain't broke, don't fix it" BUT if it is broke one should be very careful on how one goes about fixing it.

Wise words!