Temporary files in Linux

How does it work in Linux? Do they just accumulate? Is there a 'routine' you can run to free up space from old temporary files like old log files etc?
How do I make sure they do not grow to hog precious space?

Cheers for the help!

 

Your distro should clear old items in /tmp periodically. Don't touch it unless you have to.

 

Can that be configured? Over what period does the /tmp folder get a spring cleaning?

 

I read somewhere that it is usually on shutdown/bootup. I think it's shutdown, but I'm not entirely sure. In my /tmp, there are no items older than a day.