How to Close All Open Documents in Paint.NET

Closing multiple open files in Paint.NET requires a specific approach because the software requires at least one canvas to remain active while the application is running and lacks a dedicated "Close All" menu option. You can close all open documents simultaneously by exiting the application, or you can quickly dismiss them sequentially using built-in keyboard shortcuts. This guide details both methods so you can clear your workspace while managing unsaved changes efficiently.

Method 1: Exit the Application to Close All Documents

The fastest way to close every open document at the same time is to exit Paint.NET completely. When you quit the program, Paint.NET processes all open canvases at once.

1. Click the X button in the top-right corner of the Paint.NET window, press Alt + F4, or go to File > Exit.
2. If any open images contain unsaved edits, Paint.NET will prompt you for each modified file. Choose Save, Don't Save, or Cancel.
3. Once all unsaved prompts are answered, all documents close and the program shuts down.
4. If you need a clean workspace to continue working, simply relaunch Paint.NET, which will open with a single blank canvas.

Method 2: Rapidly Close Documents Without Quitting

If you want to keep the Paint.NET application open while clearing out your open documents, you can use the sequential close shortcut.

1. Press Ctrl + W on your keyboard to close the currently active image.
2. Hold down Ctrl and repeatedly tap W to close each subsequent image in your workspace.
3. Handle any unsaved work prompts by pressing D (Don't Save) or S (Save).
4. Once you close the final open document, Paint.NET automatically generates a new, blank "Untitled" canvas, leaving your workspace completely clear.