PDF Bench

Remove hidden metadata before sharing PDFs

Use Sanitize when you need to clean hidden info out of a PDF before sharing it. Quick clean strips common metadata. Flattened copy goes further by rebuilding each page as an image.

Best for

  • Sharing documents outside your organization.
  • Cleaning out hidden metadata before publishing or sending.
  • Preparing safer files for vendors or public uploads.

How to use this tool

  1. Upload a PDF and review before-analysis details.
  2. Choose quick clean or flattened copy mode based on risk level.
  3. Export and review the after-analysis panel before sharing.

Limitations and notes

  • Quick clean handles the most common metadata but may not catch everything in unusually complex files.
  • Flattened copy can increase file size and makes text no longer searchable.
  • Sanitize doesn't touch visible text on the page — use Redact for that.

When to choose quick clean

  • You want to strip out document properties and common metadata without changing how the PDF looks or behaves.
  • The recipient still needs searchable text, selectable text, or a smaller file size.
  • You are doing a routine cleanup before sending a normal working document.

When to choose flattened copy

  • You want a deeper cleanup that rebuilds each page as an image, removing hidden structure entirely.
  • The file is leaving your organization or being posted more broadly.
  • You can accept larger files and loss of searchable text in exchange for a safer final copy.

What Sanitize can't help with

  • Visible names, account numbers, and paragraphs that are still on the page.
  • A bad filename that reveals something sensitive outside the PDF itself.
  • A sharing mistake where the wrong version of the file gets attached or uploaded.

FAQ

Which mode should I choose?

Use quick clean for low-risk cleanup and flattened copy for stronger removal of hidden structures.

Does this replace redaction?

No. Redaction removes visible sensitive text content. Sanitize focuses on hidden metadata and structures.

Should I review the file after sanitizing?

Yes. Open the output in a separate viewer and confirm it still looks right and behaves the way the recipient needs.

Related pages

Redact sensitive text · Remove PDF metadata · Sanitize vs redact · Read redaction guide · Privacy promise