Meta description: Learn how to clear cache on Android the right way, fix app glitches, free storage, and know when to use Clear storage vs Clear cache. Step-by-step.
How to Clear Cache on Android Phone (2025 Guide): Speed Up and Fix App Issues
Your Android phone slowing down, apps stuttering, or storage running low? Clearing cache is a safe, quick fix that can restore performance without wiping your data. In this guide, CyReader’s experts explain exactly how to clear cache on Android, plus when you should use “Clear storage” instead. We’ll keep it simple, device-agnostic, and action-focused for both beginners and power users.
How to Clear Cache on Android: Step-by-Step Guide
The fastest way: open Settings > Apps (or Apps & notifications) > See all apps > select the app > Storage & cache > Clear cache. On Samsung (One UI), go to Settings > Apps > pick the app > Storage > Clear cache. You’re not deleting logins, messages, photos, or files—just temporary data that apps rebuild automatically. Start with apps that misbehave (e.g., Instagram, TikTok, Maps) or heavy browsers like Chrome.
Menu labels vary slightly by brand, but the flow is the same: Settings > Apps > App info > Storage > Clear cache. On Pixels and OnePlus, it’s Storage & cache; on Xiaomi/Redmi, you may see App info > Storage > Clear cache. If you can’t find an app, tap the search bar in Settings and type its name. Pro tip: you’ll often see an immediate size drop under “Cache” after clearing.
For broader cleanup, clear browser caches inside the app (e.g., Chrome > ⋮ > History > Clear browsing data, then select Cached images and files). If your phone feels slow system‑wide after an update, advanced users can wipe the cache partition from Recovery on some models (turn off phone, boot into Recovery, choose Wipe cache partition; this doesn’t erase data). Prefer an easier route? Files by Google has a safe “Junk files” cleanup that targets caches and residuals—great for quick wins without hunting through settings.
When to Clear App Cache vs Clear Storage on Android
Clear cache if an app is slow, glitchy, stuck loading, or showing outdated content. Cache files are temporary and safe to remove, and your logins, chats, playlists, and photos stay intact. It’s the first troubleshooting step because it’s fast, reversible, and often resolves common issues without friction.
Use Clear storage (also called Clear data) when an app is corrupted, keeps crashing on launch, won’t sync, or behaves oddly even after clearing cache and updating. This resets the app to a fresh install state—removing settings, accounts, downloaded data, and offline content. Back up in‑app data where possible (e.g., WhatsApp chats to Google Drive, offline maps, or downloads) before you proceed.
Not sure which to pick? Follow this order: restart your phone, clear app cache, update the app, then try Clear storage, and finally reinstall if necessary. Clear cache typically frees tens to hundreds of MB per popular app; Clear storage can free more but at the cost of setup time. For device‑wide sluggishness after major updates, consider wiping cache partition (where supported) before any data‑destructive steps.
FAQs
Q: Does clearing cache delete my photos, messages, or logins?
A: No. Clearing cache only removes temporary files. Your photos, messages, and logins remain. Clearing storage/data, however, resets the app and may sign you out.
Q: How often should I clear cache on Android?
A: Only when needed—if an app acts up or you need quick space. Android manages cache automatically; aggressive, frequent clearing can briefly slow apps as they rebuild data.
Q: Can I clear cache for all apps at once?
A: Android removed the old “Cached data” one‑tap option. Use Files by Google’s Junk files tool to safely sweep caches across apps, or clear cache per app for precision.
Q: Is it safe to clear cache for Google Play Services?
A: Yes, clearing cache is safe and can fix update/sync quirks. Avoid clearing storage for Play Services unless you’re troubleshooting specific, advanced issues.
Q: Will clearing cache improve battery life?
A: Indirectly, sometimes. If a bloated cache causes an app to misbehave or sync excessively, clearing it can help. For real gains, optimize background activity and updates.
Q: What’s the difference between “Clear cache” and “Clear storage”?
A: Clear cache deletes temporary files. Clear storage (Clear data) resets the app as if freshly installed—removing accounts, settings, and offline downloads.
Q: How do I clear Chrome cache without losing passwords?
A: In Chrome, tap ⋮ > History > Clear browsing data. Select Cached images and files only; leave Passwords and Autofill unchecked to keep logins.
Q: What is “Wipe cache partition,” and will it erase my data?
A: It clears system‑level temporary files via Recovery mode and does not erase personal data. It’s useful after major updates or if the device feels sluggish system‑wide.
Q: Are Android cleaner apps worth it?
A: Use caution. Many add ads or background drain. Prefer trusted tools like Files by Google. Avoid apps promising “RAM boosts” or constant cleaning.
Q: I’m low on storage—what else can I do beyond clearing cache?
A: Offload photos to cloud, delete downloads, uninstall rarely used apps, and move media to a high‑speed microSD card. See our guide to freeing space for step‑by‑step help.
Explore more from CyReader
- How to free up storage on Android without losing photos: https://www.cyreader.com/guides/free-up-storage-android
- Best Android phones in 2025 (buyer’s guide): https://www.cyreader.com/buying-guides/best-android-phones
- Samsung Galaxy S24 review: battery, cameras, performance: https://www.cyreader.com/reviews/galaxy-s24-review
- Speed up your old Android: 15 fixes that actually work: https://www.cyreader.com/guides/speed-up-android
- Disable bloatware safely on Samsung and Xiaomi: https://www.cyreader.com/guides/disable-bloatware-android
- Recommended accessories: grab a high‑speed microSD card for offline media (affiliate): https://www.amazon.com/s?k=microSD+U3+V30&tag=cyreader-20
- Portable backup on the go: USB‑C SSD for Android phones (affiliate): https://www.amazon.com/s?k=usb-c+portable+ssd&tag=cyreader-20
Clearing cache on Android is a low‑risk, high‑reward fix—perfect for quick speed boosts and squashing app glitches. When issues run deeper, escalate to Clear storage or a reinstall with backups ready. Found this helpful? Bookmark our guide, share it with a friend, and explore the related how‑tos above for smarter, faster Android living.
