Short Answer
We do NOT recommend removing original PNG/JPG images.
Original images are a core part of WordPress media handling and are required for many critical features.
If your goal is to save disk space, there is a safer and recommended alternative described below.
We do NOT recommend removing original PNG/JPG images.
Original images are a core part of WordPress media handling and are required for many critical features.
If your goal is to save disk space, there is a safer and recommended alternative described below.
Why We Do Not Recommend Removing Original Images
1. Original Images Are the Source of All Thumbnails
All thumbnails and custom image sizes in WordPress are generated from the original image.
Once the original image is removed:
- 1. Thumbnails cannot be regenerated.
- 2. Newly registered image sizes will never be created.
- 3. Image editing (crop, rotate).
- 4. Media workflows (Like thumbnail regeneration) become permanently limited.
Note
CompressX does not generate WebP or AVIF copies for original full-size images.
Only thumbnails are converted to WebP/AVIF, including large thumbnail sizes (e.g. 2560×2560).
CompressX does not generate WebP or AVIF copies for original full-size images.
Only thumbnails are converted to WebP/AVIF, including large thumbnail sizes (e.g. 2560×2560).
2. Original Images May Still Be Used on the Frontend
Even if thumbnails exist, the original image may still be used in:
- 1. Lightbox or zoom views.
- 2. Full-size image links.
- 3. Certain themes, blocks, or scripts.
- 4. Image downloads and sharing.
Deleting the original image can lead to broken frontend behavior.
3. Removing Original Images Is Irreversible
Once removed:
- 1. Original resolution and metadata are lost.
- 2. Thumbnails cannot fully replace the original.
- 3. Future improvements or higher-quality regeneration are impossible.
This action cannot be safely undone.
The Safe and Recommended Way to Save Disk Space
Delete Thumbnails Instead of Original Images
CompressX provides a safe, reversible method to reduce disk usage by removing generated thumbnails while keeping original images intact.
Why This Is Safe
- 1. Thumbnails are derived files, not source files.
- 2. They can always be restored from the original image.
- 3. WordPress does not require all thumbnails to exist at all times.
Tip
CompressX will keep thumbnails that are required for sharing content on third-party platforms, such as social networks.
CompressX will keep thumbnails that are required for sharing content on third-party platforms, such as social networks.
