The short answer
Open Settings › Apps, choose the app, tap Storage & cache, then tap Clear cache. This deletes temporary files only; you stay signed in and keep your data. Avoid Clear storage (or Clear data) unless you want to reset the app completely.
Apps save temporary files, called cache, so they load faster. Over time the cache can grow large or become corrupted, which can make an app slow or glitchy. Clearing it is safe and often fixes the problem.
Cache vs storage: the important difference
Google’s Android Help explains the two options you’ll see:
- Clear cache: deletes temporary data. The app may be a little slower the next time you open it. You keep your sign-in and data.
- Clear storage (or Clear data): permanently deletes all of the app’s data, including sign-ins and settings. Use this only to reset an app completely.
How to clear an app’s cache
- Open Settings.
- Tap Apps (on some phones, Apps & notifications › See all apps).
- Choose the app.
- Tap Storage & cache (or Storage).
- Tap Clear cache.
On Samsung: go to Settings › Apps, choose the app, tap Storage, then Clear cache.
When clearing cache helps
- An app shows old content or won’t refresh.
- An app crashes or freezes after an update.
- An app like a browser or social media app is using lots of storage.
If clearing cache doesn’t fix it, try Force stop on the same app info screen, then reopen the app, or update it in the Play Store.
Clear junk across apps with Files by Google
Open Files by Google, tap Clean, and use the Junk files card to remove temporary files from several apps at once.
Clear your browser cache
For Chrome, cache and cookies are cleared inside the browser rather than in Settings. See how to clear cookies and cache in Chrome and Safari.
Related guides
Still short on space after clearing cache? Follow our full guide to free up storage on Android. If an app drains your battery, see why your Android battery drains fast.
The bottom line
Settings › Apps › [app] › Storage & cache › Clear cache fixes many glitches and frees space without losing anything. Save Clear storage for when you want a completely fresh start. For more ways to make room, see how to free up storage on Android.
Frequently asked questions
Will clearing cache log me out?
No. Clearing cache only removes temporary files. Clearing storage (or data) is what signs you out and deletes the app's saved data.
How often should I clear cache?
Only when needed: if an app misbehaves, shows old content, or uses a lot of space. Apps rebuild their cache as you use them, so clearing it constantly doesn't help.
Can I clear the cache for all apps at once?
Most recent Android versions don't offer a one-tap option for all apps. Files by Google can clear junk files across apps from its Clean tab.
Why you can trust this guide
- Based on official sources. The steps here are checked against the 2 official sources listed below, such as the help pages of the companies involved.
- Checked and dated. Last checked on November 10, 2026. We update guides when software or advice changes.
- Independent. No company paid for or reviewed this guide. We don't sell products, and ads never influence our advice.
- Open to corrections. Spotted an error? Tell us and we'll fix it. Read how we research.
Sources
- Android Help — Free up storage on your Android device
- Android Help — Get the most out of your Android device
This guide is general information. Menus and features can change with software updates, and steps may differ on your device or version. Back up important data before making big changes. Read our disclaimer.
