Many iPhone users often ask how to clear app cache and free up memory. This question isn’t new — even with the latest iPhone 17 or 16, people still wonder about it. In fact, clearing cache on iPhone has been a common doubt for years.
In this guide, we’ll explain how cache works on iPhone and the ways you can free up storage. Keep in mind that iOS handles cache differently from Android. That’s why you don’t see a simple “Clear Cache” button like on Android phones.
How to Clear Cache on iPhone Apps
On iPhone and iPad (iOS and iPadOS), Apple uses an automatic system to manage cache. The device optimizes memory on its own, so you usually don’t need to worry about clearing it manually. Still, there are situations where you may want to free up extra space.
Clear iPhone App Cache Automatically by Restarting
Each time you restart your iPhone, iOS can remove unused cache files.
To do this:
Hold down the Power button and the Volume Down button.
Slide the “Power Off” button at the top of the screen.
After a few seconds, turn your iPhone back on by holding the Power button.
This process may free up space if your iPhone is running low on storage. But note that iOS clears cache only when needed. If you already have enough free memory, a restart may not make any noticeable difference.
Clear App Cache by Removing or Offloading Apps
Another way to clear app data and cache is by uninstalling or offloading apps.
Offloading Apps to Free Up Space
Offloading is a handy iOS feature that temporarily removes an app from your device but keeps its data. This way, you save storage space while still keeping your app information safe.
When you offload an app, its icon stays on your Home Screen. If you tap it again, the app will re-download from the App Store, and all your saved data will be available.
Here’s how to offload an app:
Step 1: Open Settings.
Step 2: Go to General.
Step 3: Tap iPhone Storage.
Step 4: You’ll see the list of apps with storage details. Tap the one you want to offload.
Step 5: On the app’s info page, tap Offload App.
Step 6: Confirm by tapping Offload App again.
That’s it. The app is removed, but its data remains. When you reinstall the app, all settings and data will still be there.
There’s also an Offload Unused Apps option in iPhone Storage. It removes apps automatically when space is low. While useful, it can cause higher mobile data usage since apps are re-downloaded when you use them again.
If you prefer control, offload apps manually instead.
Clear Cache by Deleting Apps
If you no longer need an app, deleting it completely is the best way to free up both cache and app data.
Steps to delete an app:
Step 1: Open Settings.
Step 2: Tap General.
Step 3: Go to iPhone Storage.
Step 4: Select the app you want to delete.
Step 5: Tap Delete App.
Step 6: Confirm by tapping Delete App again.
The app, along with its cache and data, will be completely removed. If you want it again, you’ll need to download it from the App Store.
Can I Use iPhone Cache Cleaning Apps?
Unlike Android, Apple doesn’t allow third-party apps to clear cache directly. iOS doesn’t provide developers with that kind of access.
So if you want to clear cache, the only reliable method is to delete or reinstall the app. Restarting your iPhone also helps in some cases, but the system decides when to clear cache automatically.
✅ In short:
Restart your iPhone to clear temporary cache.
Offload unused apps to save space while keeping app data.
Delete apps you don’t need to remove both cache and data.
