A cache is a set of files an app keeps so it can work faster next time: thumbnails, downloaded web pages, previews, map tiles, compiled code. Caches are designed to be disposable. If they disappear, the app rebuilds them.
That makes them a reasonable place to recover space, but it is worth knowing what clearing them does and does not achieve.
When clearing caches helps
- You need disk space now. Caches for browsers, creative apps, music and video streaming, messaging apps and developer tools can each reach several gigabytes.
- An app is misbehaving. A corrupted cache can cause glitches, and clearing it is a standard troubleshooting step.
When it does not help
Clearing caches does not make a healthy Mac faster. In fact, apps may be slightly slower right afterwards while they rebuild them, and the space will gradually fill again. Treat it as a one-off fix, not weekly maintenance.
Option 1: Use the app's own setting
Many apps have a built-in way to clear their cache that is safer than deleting files by hand:
- Safari: choose Safari > Settings > Advanced and turn on Show features for web developers. Then choose Develop > Empty Caches. To remove history and website data too, choose Safari > Clear History.
- Chrome: open Settings > Privacy and security > Delete browsing data, select Cached images and files, and click Delete data.
- Firefox: open Settings > Privacy & Security > Cookies and Site Data > Clear Data, then select Cached Web Content.
- Creative apps such as Adobe apps and DaVinci Resolve have cache or media cache settings in their preferences. Use those after saving your projects.
- Messaging and streaming apps often have a storage or cache section in their settings.
Option 2: Clear your user caches in Finder
macOS keeps per-user app caches in a hidden Library folder.
- Quit the apps whose caches you want to clear.
- In Finder, choose Go > Go to Folder (or press Shift-Command-G).
- Type
~/Library/Cachesand press Return. - Choose View > as List and View > Show View Options, then turn on Calculate all sizes. Sort by Size to find the biggest folders.
- Open a large folder and move its contents to the Trash. Deleting the contents rather than the folder itself avoids confusing apps that expect the folder to exist.
- Restart your Mac and check that your apps work normally.
- Empty the Trash.
Folder names are usually the app's bundle identifier, such as com.spotify.client or com.apple.Safari. If you do not recognise a folder, leave it.
Folders to leave alone
/System/Library/Cachesand/Library/Cachesare used by macOS and shared system components. Leave them to macOS.~/Library/Application Supportis not a cache. It contains app data such as settings, libraries and saved work.~/Library/Containersholds the data for sandboxed apps, including documents in some apps. Do not clear it in bulk.
What about "cache cleaner" apps?
Some cleaner apps simply delete everything they find in cache folders. That frees space, but it can also remove data apps did not expect to lose, and the space is reclaimed again as apps rebuild their caches. Look for a tool that explains what each cache belongs to, lets you choose, and moves items to the Trash first so you can undo.
Frequently asked questions
Is it safe to delete everything in ~/Library/Caches?
Most apps rebuild their caches, so it is usually safe, but quit apps first and delete folder contents rather than the folders. Some apps keep downloaded content you would need to fetch again. If you are unsure about a folder, leave it.
Will clearing the cache log me out of websites?
Clearing only cached files does not normally log you out. Clearing cookies or website data does. Check which options you select in your browser.
How often should I clear my Mac cache?
Only when you need the space or an app is misbehaving. Caches exist to make apps faster, and they will grow back as you use your Mac.
Want this done for you?
spacerecover scans your Mac for caches, old installers, app leftovers, large files and developer build-up, explains each one in plain words, and clears what you approve in one step. Items go to the Trash first, so you can undo.