How to Clear Cache on Android (All Devices & Versions) — Boost Speed & Fix Common Issues

To clear cache on Android, go to Settings > Apps > Select App > Storage > Tap “Clear Cache”. This helps free up space, fix app issues, and improve overall phone performance. Whether you use a Samsung, Pixel, or any Android device, the process is simple and highly effective.

Understanding Cache on Android Devices

Cache is temporary data stored by apps and websites to speed up user experiences. While it can improve performance in the short term, over time it may cause your device to slow down or behave unpredictably.

There are three primary types of cache in Android:

• App cache: Stores data like images or scripts for faster app loading
• Browser cache: Saves web content for quicker browsing
• System cache: Keeps logs and other system-related data for smooth functionality

Although these caches serve a purpose, they can accumulate and lead to poor performance, storage warnings, or even app crashes. That’s when clearing cache becomes a useful maintenance task.

Clear App Cache on Android – Step-by-Step Guide

Clearing app cache is the most common method users rely on to solve everyday phone issues.

How to Clear App Cache on Android:

1. Open Settings
2. Tap Apps or Applications
3. Select the app you want to clear
4. Tap Storage & Cache or Storage
5. Hit Clear Cache (not Clear Storage unless you want to erase all data)

This is especially helpful for apps like Instagram, TikTok, or YouTube, which store media-heavy content that piles up quickly. Regular cache clearing not only fixes bugs but also reclaims valuable storage space.

Clear Cache on Samsung Phones (One UI Users)

Samsung users running One UI have slightly different interfaces, so it’s important to follow steps specific to your device.

How to Clear Cache on Samsung Phones:

1. Go to Settings
2. Tap Apps
3. Choose the target app
4. Select Storage
5. Tap Clear Cache

Samsung phones often come with optimization tools like Device Care, which offer cache cleaning in bulk. Open Device Care, tap Storage, and run optimization—it will suggest cache files that can be cleared.

Additionally, Samsung allows advanced users to wipe system cache using Recovery Mode, particularly after system updates or bugs.

Clear Browser Cache on Android Devices

Web browsers like Google Chrome, Firefox, or Samsung Internet also save a lot of cache and cookies, which can affect speed and functionality.

Steps to Clear Cache in Chrome:

1. Open Chrome app
2. Tap the three dots (menu) in the top-right corner
3. Tap History > Clear browsing data
4. Select Cached images and files, and optionally Cookies and site data
5. Tap Clear data

Clearing browser cache will sign you out of some sites but can solve issues with page loading, form submission errors, or outdated content.

How to Clear System Cache (Advanced Users)

While modern Android versions manage system cache efficiently, advanced users may want to manually wipe the system cache partition, especially when facing persistent software glitches after updates.

Steps to Wipe System Cache Partition:

This should be done with caution and is not necessary for daily maintenance.

1. Power off the device
2. Press and hold Power + Volume Up (or device-specific keys) to enter Recovery Mode
3. Use volume buttons to select Wipe Cache Partition
4. Confirm the action and reboot device

This method doesn’t erase personal data, but always ensure you have a backup just in case.

How to Clear Cache on Android 13 and Newer Versions

Android 13 and later versions have slightly adjusted how users manage app storage. In some cases, “Clear Cache” might be nested deeper or not available for system apps.

If you don’t see a Clear Cache option, follow these steps:

1. Go to Settings > Apps
2. Tap the app
3. Choose Storage Usage
4. You should see Clear Cache or a “Manage Storage” option

Some apps now manage cache automatically or restrict user access to avoid performance issues.

Why You Should Regularly Clear Cache

Regularly clearing cache can lead to noticeable improvements in your phone’s behavior:

• Speeds up device performance
• Prevents app crashing and freezing
• Helps avoid “Storage Almost Full” warnings
• Fixes issues after system updates or app malfunctions

It also supports better battery life and smoother multitasking.

When to Avoid Clearing Cache

Although it’s a helpful practice, clearing cache too frequently may not always be beneficial.

• Don’t overdo it: Frequent cache clearing can cause apps to load slower initially, as they need to re-download files
• Loss of settings: Browser cache clearing can remove saved preferences and sign-ins
• Better alternative: If an app is well-optimized, cache doesn’t need to be cleared unless there’s a problem

Use your judgment—clear cache when facing issues or during monthly device maintenance.

Recommended Apps to Help Clear Cache Automatically

If manual clearing feels tedious, consider using trusted cache cleaner apps that simplify the process.

Top Cache Cleaner Apps for Android:

• Files by Google
  • Lightweight, Google-supported app
  • Highlights temporary files, junk, and cache for easy removal
• CCleaner
  • From the makers of the desktop software
  • Offers memory analysis and app cache clearing
• SD Maid
  • Advanced features for rooted and non-rooted phones
  • Clears system logs, residual files, and hidden cache

Avoid random “cleaner” apps with intrusive ads or unnecessary permissions, as they can pose security risks.

Final Thoughts

Clearing your Android device’s cache is a simple yet powerful way to improve performance, fix errors, and regain storage space. Whether you’re handling a sluggish app or cleaning your browser history, using the steps above ensures your phone stays fast and functional.

Feel free to bookmark this guide and revisit it whenever your phone starts feeling slower or apps begin acting up. And remember: use cache clearing as a tool—not a routine—to keep your Android running smoothly and efficiently.

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