Hidden Layer Cleanser is a free After Effects script that removes unused or hidden layers, while preserving hidden layers referenced by effects, to produce a tidy composition ready for archiving or handoff.
Download Hidden Layer Cleanser ↗
Developed by Dino Qiu.
About Hidden Layer Cleanser
Hidden Layer Cleanser is a script for Adobe After Effects that scans a project and deletes layers that are unused or hidden, leaving the composition cleaner for archiving or transfer. The script detects hidden layers that are referenced by effects such as displacement maps and excludes them from deletion, preventing accidental loss of effect‑dependent assets. Compatibility covers a broad range of After Effects releases, from CS6 through the 2026 version, ensuring it works in both legacy and current environments. The current version, 0.0.1, was last updated in November 2024 and includes a demo video illustrating its operation.
Features
- Removes unused or hidden layers across an After Effects project
- Prepares a tidy, organized composition for archiving or handover
- Recognizes hidden layers referenced by effects, such as displacement maps, and excludes them from selection or deletion to prevent accidental removal
- Compatible with After Effects from CS6 through the 2026 release
- Demo video available
Best for
After Effects users who need to clean up projects before archiving or handing them off to another person.
Frequently asked questions
Which After Effects versions does Hidden Layer Cleanser support?
Hidden Layer Cleanser supports After Effects versions from CS6 and CC through CC 2014, CC 2015, CC 2015.3, CC 2017, CC 2018, CC 2019, and the 2020‑2026 releases.
Does Hidden Layer Cleanser delete layers used by effects like displacement maps?
No. The script identifies hidden layers that are referenced by effects such as displacement maps and excludes them from selection or deletion, preserving effect‑dependent layers.
What changed in the November 2024 Hidden Layer Cleanser update?
The November 2024 update added recognition of hidden layers referenced by effects, preventing them from being selected or deleted during cleanup. Earlier releases only removed unused and hidden layers without this safeguard.
Is Hidden Layer Cleanser free?
The catalog lists Hidden Layer Cleanser as free, but pricing and licensing terms may change, so the developer’s page should be consulted for the current status.
Related plugins
Explore Hidden Layer Cleanser
View download and installation options.