What this problem is
Database grows over time and may slow down queries, backups, and admin operations.
Why it happens
- Post revisions and autosaves accumulate
- Expired transients and orphaned options remain
- Large logs (WooCommerce, security, form plugins)
Prerequisites
- Full database backup
- phpMyAdmin access or a trusted optimization plugin
Diagnosis
Check table sizes in phpMyAdmin and identify the top 3 largest tables.
Detailed steps
Step 1) Clean safe items
- Delete spam/trash comments
- Delete post/page revisions (with care)
- Clear expired transients
Step 2) Optimize tables
In phpMyAdmin select tables and run Optimize table.
Step 3) Reduce future growth
Limit revisions and keep log retention short for plugins that generate logs.
Expected results
- Smaller database, faster queries, faster backups
What to do if it fails
- Restore from backup if a cleanup removes needed data
Best practices
- Schedule regular database maintenance and monitor table growth monthly