Home Forums Mac Software Mac Operating Systems Folder behavior

I can certainly relate to your reluctance to use third-party applications and make modifications. I felt that way when I started in OS 9 and I wouldn't even update Apple software! Still, if you want to solve your problem, you'll have to take action of some sort.

OnyX has been around for a long time and is a very reliable maintenance app. Deleting .DS_Store files is harmless but you should be prepared for the resumption of default settings on file and folder positions. They will regenerate as fresh, virgin files when you re-arrange your desktop. It is akin to deleting preference files in that you will have to reset preferences but then you'll have brand new preference files that store your preferences.

Bottom line: If you are afraid to try anything, even those things that are benign, you'll never get anywhere.