How to Clear Cache on a Browser, Phone, or Computer

What You’ll Need

The device and app or web browser whose cache you want to clear.
A few minutes, and access to the app’s settings. Menu names and locations may differ slightly by version.
If you use a shared or work device, permission to change its browser or storage settings.

Cache is temporary data stored to help websites and apps load more quickly. Clearing it can help with outdated page content, display glitches, or an app that is behaving unexpectedly. It is not a universal fix, and you usually do not need to clear cache on a schedule.

Step-by-Step

Choose what to clear. Decide whether the problem is in a browser, a particular app, or the whole device. Start with the affected browser or app rather than clearing data everywhere. Cache is generally separate for each browser and app.
Save work and check sign-in details. Save open documents or forms first. Make sure you know how to sign back in if needed. Clearing cache alone usually leaves accounts and passwords intact, but nearby options may remove cookies, site data, or saved login information.
Open the relevant settings. In a browser, look for Settings and then a section such as Privacy, History, or Clear browsing data. In a phone app, open the device’s Settings, choose Apps or Applications, select the app, and look for Storage or a similar control. Names and menu paths can differ slightly by version and device.
Select cached files only. Choose “Cached images and files,” “Cache,” or a clearly equivalent option. Read the labels carefully. Avoid selecting cookies, browsing history, passwords, downloads, or all app data unless you also intend to remove those items.
Choose a time range, if offered. Browser controls may offer a range such as the last hour or all time. Select the narrowest range that covers the problem. If you need to remove all stored cached files, select the broadest range, while confirming that the selected data type is still cache only.
Confirm the action. Tap or click Clear, Delete, or the equivalent button. Some browsers show a confirmation screen; review it before proceeding. Wait for the process to finish and avoid closing the app while it is working.
Restart and test. Close and reopen the app or browser. Visit the affected page or repeat the action that was failing. The first load may be slower because the app must download fresh files. If the problem persists, use the troubleshooting steps below rather than repeatedly clearing everything.

Common Mistakes

Clearing the wrong data: Cache is not the same as cookies, browsing history, or saved passwords. Selecting all categories can sign you out of websites, erase preferences, or remove records you wanted to keep.
Expecting cache clearing to fix every problem: It can help when stored files are stale or damaged, but it will not repair a poor internet connection, a service outage, or an account issue.
Using “clear storage” without checking: On some devices, an option such as Clear storage or Clear data resets an app and may remove settings, downloaded content, or local files. Choose a cache-specific control when available.
Clearing cache constantly: Cached files are normally useful. Removing them too often can make pages load more slowly and use more data while files are downloaded again.
Assuming every app has a cache button: Some apps manage temporary files automatically and do not offer a separate cache control. Do not use a device-wide reset to compensate.

Tips

Clear the cache for one app or browser first. This makes it easier to tell whether the action helped.
For a single website problem, check whether the browser offers site-specific storage controls. Removing data for just that site may avoid affecting other websites.
Update the app or browser through its normal, trusted update method if the issue continues. Updates can resolve bugs that clearing temporary files will not.
Keep a note of any settings you deliberately change, particularly on a shared device. If a page needs a saved preference or login, you may need to set it up again after removing site data.
Use the device maker’s or browser developer’s help pages if a menu label is unclear. Avoid unfamiliar “cleaner” tools that request broad access when the built-in settings are sufficient.

Troubleshooting

The page still looks wrong: Reload it, close and reopen the browser, and check the page in a private or incognito window. If it works there, a cookie, extension, or site-specific setting may be involved; clearing cache again may not help. If it fails in multiple browsers or devices, the issue may be with the site or connection.

I cannot find a cache option: Search the settings for “cache” or “storage,” or consult the official support page for your device or app version. Some apps have no manual cache control. Do not choose Clear data unless you understand what the app will remove.

I was signed out or lost a preference: This can happen if cookies or site data were selected along with cache. Sign in again and restore the preference if you can. Check whether saved passwords are available through your browser or device’s password manager before changing related settings.

The app still crashes or will not open: Restart the device and check for an app update. If the app provides no cache-only option and the problem continues, consult its official support guidance before reinstalling; removing an app can delete local data that has not been backed up.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens when I clear cache?

The app removes stored temporary files and fetches fresh copies as needed. The next visit or launch may take longer, but the cache can build again during normal use.

Will clearing cache delete my photos or files?

Clearing a cache-specific setting should not delete personal photos or documents. However, Clear data, Clear storage, or a similar broader option may remove locally stored app content, so read the prompt before confirming.

Will I be logged out?

Usually not if you select only cached files. You may be signed out if you also clear cookies or site data, so check the selected categories carefully.

How often should I clear cache?

There is no routine schedule needed for most people. Clear it when troubleshooting a specific issue or when an app’s official instructions recommend doing so.

Is clearing cache the same as clearing cookies?

No. Cache stores temporary files such as page images, while cookies and site data can store sessions and preferences. Removing cookies is more likely to sign you out or reset website choices.

Does clearing cache free up space?

It can free some temporary storage, but the amount varies and apps may recreate cache files. Use your device’s storage settings to see what is taking up space before removing app data.

Further reading: Apple Support and Google Help. Details can change, so check the official page for anything that matters to you. Spotted a mistake? Tell us. How we write an answer.