Wondering how to clear the cache on an iPhone? As we run several apps and navigate browsers like Safari and Chrome, we collect a lot of useless clutter along the way that fills up our phone’s cache.
What, exactly, is a cache? For the uninitiated, it’s a reserve for your iPhone that saves temporary data. On the plus side, it helps websites load more rapidly. However, it does have its downsides. For example, it can take up a lot of storage that can be used for more pertinent files.
Itching to free up more space, or simply trying to clear away cookies and other browsing data? Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to clear the cache on your iPhone. Please note that we’ve included screenshots from a phone running iOS 26 and Liquid Glass, but the steps should be similar even if you’re on an older OS.
How to clear cache on iPhone: Clear Safari cache
If you’re experiencing any issues with performance or unexpected behavior on a website, clearing your Safari cache may solve the problem. Below, we’ve got instructions on how to do just that.
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1. Open Safari and tap the three dots in the corner
The start of your journey.
Credit: Screenshot: Apple/Alex Perry
2. Tap Bookmarks
Find your bookmarks.
Credit: Screenshot: Apple/Alex Perry
3. Tap the clock icon, then the three dots, then tap Clear
Find that clear button.
Credit: Screenshot: Apple/Alex Perry
4. Set how far back you want to clear your data and then hit the big red button
Shiny red button.
Credit: Screenshot: Apple/Alex Perry
How to clear cache on iPhone: Clear app cache
If you want to look into clearing your app cache instead, here’s how to do it.
1. Open ‘Settings’
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2. Tap on ‘General’
Easy enough so far.
Credit: Screenshot: Apple/Alex Perry
3. Tap on ‘iPhone Storage’
So far, so good.
Credit: Screenshot: Apple/Alex Perry
Look through any apps that you feel can use a cache cleaning.
4. Tap on desired app and hit ‘Offload App’
There you have it.
Credit: Screenshot: Apple/Alex Perry
With these cache-cleaning tips, you should free up some space on your iPhone and benefit from better performance, whether you’re surfing the web or navigating iOS.
UPDATE: Sep. 27, 2025, 11:08 a.m. EDT This article has been updated with new screenshots and advice.
