Trim icloud Notes storage?

Hello, swelters.

Thank you for using Apple Support Communities! I understand that you'd like to delete content from the Notes app to make more space, but have been running into difficulty.

When you deleted the notes, did you then remove them from the Recently Deleted folder? Deleted notes are kept in the Recently Deleted folder for up to 30 days. After that time, those notes are permanently deleted (and that may take up to 40 days).

Delete a note on Mac - Apple Support

Are there any other ways you can make more space? Manage your iCloud storage - Apple Support

I hope this helps! Take care.

Thanks for providing additional details!

When you delete anything from the Recently Deleted folder, it becomes permanently deleted. The 30-40 days only applies to notes left in the Recently Deleted folder.

To confirm, if you go to System Preferences > iCloud > Manage, the Notes app is taking up 5GB of data, correct? I ask because the Manage tab is the easiest way to confirm the exact amount of space an app uses in iCloud. Set up iCloud on your Mac - Apple Support

I suggest going to iCloud.com to see if any of the notes you previously deleted are still on the server. If they are, try deleting them there. iCloud: What is iCloud Notes?

Let us know! Cheers.