How do I clear cache on an Android phone?

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How do I clear cache on an Android phone? I’m running low on storage space on my Google Pixel 6 and some apps like Instagram and Google Chrome have been acting sluggish or crashing lately. I’ve never done this before and I’m worried about accidentally deleting important data, so could you please provide detailed, step-by-step instructions that a beginner could follow? Specifically, I want to clear the system cache (if possible) and clear individual app caches without doing a factory reset. Also, does this process require root access, and will it log me out of apps or remove saved login information? I’m using Android 14.

To clear cache on an Android phone, follow these methods depending on your device and preference:

Method 1: Clear Cache via Settings (Per-App)

  1. Open Settings: Go to your phone’s main Settings menu.
  2. Navigate to Apps: Scroll to "Apps," "Applications," or "Application Manager" (wording varies by manufacturer).
  3. Select the App: Choose the specific app whose cache you want to clear.
  4. Clear Cache: Tap "Storage," then select "Clear Cache."
    • Note: This only removes temporary files and app data, not your logged-in states or personal files.

Method 2: Clear Cache System-Wide (All Apps)

  1. Open Settings: Go to "Settings."
  2. Access Storage Options: Navigate to "Storage," "Storage & memory," or similar (e.g., "Device Care" on Samsung).
  3. Cache Management: Look for "Cached data," "Free up space," or "Clear cache."
  4. Confirm: Tap "OK" to clear all app caches at once.

Method 3: Use Third-Party Apps

  1. Download a Cleaner App: Install reputable tools like CCleaner, SD Maid, or Files by Google from the Play Store.
  2. Scan for Cache: Open the app and run a scan to identify cached files.
  3. Delete: Select all cached files and tap "Clean" or "Delete."
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Method 4: Clear System Cache via Recovery Mode (Advanced)

Use this if your phone is sluggish or full—deletes temporary system files, not app data.

  1. Power Off: Completely turn off your phone.
  2. Enter Recovery Mode:
    • Volume Down + Power: Hold until the logo appears (e.g., Samsung).
    • Volume Up + Power: Hold until the boot menu shows (e.g., Pixel/stock Android).
  3. Navigate: Use volume keys to highlight "Recovery," then press Power.
  4. Clear Cache: Choose "Wipe cache partition," then confirm with Power.
  5. Reboot: Select "Reboot system now."

Important Notes:

  • Difference Between Cache and Data:
    • Cache: Temporary files stored for faster loading. Safe to delete.
    • Data: Personal app data (e.g., login details). Do not tap "Clear Storage" unless you want to reset the app.
  • Frequency: Clearing cache monthly can resolve slowdowns.
  • Manufacturer Variations: UI differs (e.g., Samsung’s "Device Care," Xiaomi’s "Storage"). Adapt steps accordingly.
  • SD Cards: To clear SD card cache, use a PC:
    • Connect phone → Enable USB "File Transfer" mode → Open phone storage → Delete .Android_secure, DCIM, and .Trash folders.

If issues persist after clearing cache, consider resetting app preferences or a factory reset as a last resort.

Published: October 2, 2025