How to Clear App Cache on Android (and When You Should)
Every Android app stores temporary files called cache so it can load faster next time. Cache usually helps, but it can grow to hundreds of megabytes or become corrupted and cause glitches. Here is how to clear it safely, app by app, and what the difference is between Clear cache and Clear storage.
How to clear cache for one app
- Open Settings. Go to Settings > Apps (on some phones, Apps & notifications > See all apps).
- Choose the app. Tap the app that is slow, misbehaving, or using a lot of space.
- Open Storage. Tap Storage & cache, or Storage on Samsung phones.
- Tap Clear cache. The cache size drops to zero. Your login, settings, and files stay as they are.
Clear cache vs. Clear storage
Clear cache removes only temporary files and is always safe. Clear storage (called Clear data on older phones) deletes everything the app has saved, including logins, settings, offline downloads, and in some apps unsynced content. Only use Clear storage if clearing the cache did not fix a problem and you know your data is backed up.
Can I clear the cache of all apps at once?
Android removed the one-tap Clear all cache button years ago, so on most phones you have to clear cache app by app. Some phones include a cleanup tool in Settings or in the Files app. Apps that offer one-tap cache cleaning on current Android versions open each app's settings page for you, often with optional Accessibility assistance.
When clearing cache helps
Clearing cache repeatedly for no reason does not make a phone faster. Apps rebuild their cache as you use them, so the space comes back over time.
- An app crashes, freezes, or shows old content
- Storage is almost full and one app holds a large cache
- After a major app update that behaves strangely
Clear cache for several apps with Phone Cleaner
Phone Cleaner – AI Cleanup App shows how much cache every installed app holds, sorted by size. Select the apps you want and clear their cache with optional Auto Assist, which taps Clear cache in Android Settings for you, or use Manual mode to open each app's settings page.
Frequently asked questions
Is it safe to clear cache on Android?
Yes. Cache contains temporary files only. Clearing it does not delete accounts, messages, photos, or settings.
Will clearing cache log me out?
No. Clearing cache keeps you signed in. Clear storage is what signs you out and resets the app.
How often should I clear app cache?
Only when an app misbehaves or storage is low. There is no benefit in clearing cache every day.
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