Automated cleanup for orphan Claude Code processes

Three-layer automated cleanup tool for orphan Claude Code processes (sub-agents, MCP servers, plugins).

Automated Cleanup for Orphan Claude Code Processes

Managing AI development environments, especially those involving complex agent frameworks like Claude Code, can lead to resource bloat. Orphaned processes, such as lingering sub-agents, inactive MCP servers, or unloaded plugins, consume valuable system resources and can hinder performance. This tool provides a robust, multi-layered approach to automatically identify and terminate these orphaned Claude Code processes, ensuring a cleaner and more efficient development workflow.

What it Does

The cc-reaper tool is designed to proactively address the issue of orphaned Claude Code processes. It operates as a three-layer cleanup mechanism, systematically scanning for and removing defunct components. This includes identifying and terminating stray sub-agent processes that may have failed to exit gracefully, shutting down MCP servers that are no longer actively serving requests, and unloading any plugins that are not properly registered or are causing conflicts. By automating this cleanup, developers can avoid manual intervention and maintain optimal system performance.

Key Features

Three-Layered Cleanup: Implements distinct detection and termination strategies for sub-agents, MCP servers, and plugins.
Automated Operation: Designed for background execution, minimizing the need for manual oversight.
Resource Management: Frees up system resources by eliminating zombie processes and unused server instances.
GitHub Source: Open-source and readily available for inspection and integration.
Developer Focused: Tailored for AI builders and developers working with agent-based systems.

Who it's For

This tool is essential for AI developers and engineers who utilize Claude Code or similar agent frameworks. It is particularly beneficial for those running multiple agents, frequent testing cycles, or complex agent orchestrations where process management can become challenging. If you're experiencing performance degradation due to lingering processes or are looking to streamline your development environment's resource utilization, cc-reaper offers a practical and automated solution.