macOS does not have a normal Finder checkbox for hiding all Desktop icons, but a simple Finder preference command can hide them without moving or deleting the files.
This guide applies to macOS. Stage Manager-related options require macOS Ventura or later.
Does This Affect You?
Use this if you need a clean screen for screenshots, screen sharing, recording, presentations, or simply want Desktop files out of view.
Hide All Desktop Icons
- Open Terminal from Spotlight.
- Run
defaults write com.apple.finder CreateDesktop -bool false. - Run
killall Finder. - Finder restarts and Desktop icons disappear. The files are still in the Desktop folder.
Show Desktop Icons Again
- Open Terminal.
- Run
defaults write com.apple.finder CreateDesktop -bool true. - Run
killall Finder. - Desktop icons reappear where they were.
Other Ways to Tidy the Desktop
Stage Manager
Stage Manager can hide Desktop items until you click the wallpaper, depending on your Desktop & Dock settings. It is a gentler option that does not require Terminal.
Use Stacks
Right-click the Desktop and choose Use Stacks to group files by kind, date, or tag instead of hiding everything.
Files Are Not Deleted
The Terminal method only changes whether Finder draws icons on the wallpaper. Open Finder and choose Desktop in the sidebar to access the files normally.
Sources
- Apple Support: Use Terminal on Mac
- Apple Support: Use Stage Manager on Mac