How to Clear Chrome Cache Safely (Desktop & Mobile)

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How to Clear Chrome Cache Safely (Desktop & Mobile)

Updated: November 27, 2025 · 4–5 minute read

Chrome’s cache can speed up browsing, but over time it grows large and may cause pages to load incorrectly. Follow these quick steps for desktop, Android, and iPhone to clear just the cache while keeping your logins intact.

Desktop (Windows, macOS, Linux)

  1. Open Chrome and press Ctrl+Shift+Delete (Windows/Linux) or Command+Shift+Delete (Mac).
  2. In the panel, pick a Time range (start with Last 7 days).
  3. Check Cached images and files. Leave “Cookies and other site data” unchecked if you want to stay signed in.
  4. Click Clear data.

Pro tip: If one site keeps glitching, try a targeted reset: go to the page → click the padlock icon → Site settings → Clear data (just for that site).

Android

  1. Open Chrome → tap ⋮ → History → Clear browsing data…
  2. Choose Time range → select Cached images and files.
  3. Leave Cookies and site data unchecked to preserve logins.
  4. Tap Clear data.

iPhone & iPad

  1. Open Chrome → tap ⋮ (or …) → History → Clear Browsing Data.
  2. Select Cached Images and Files and your preferred Time Range.
  3. Leave Cookies, Site Data unchecked to remain logged in.
  4. Tap Clear Browsing Data → confirm.

Troubleshooting & tips

  • Hard refresh a page: Windows/Linux Ctrl+F5; Mac Shift+Command+R.
  • Still broken? Try Last 4 weeks or All time for cache only. If problems persist, clear cookies for that specific site instead of globally.
  • Low storage on mobile: Clearing cache reclaims space but doesn’t remove downloads or photos.

FAQ

What exactly gets deleted?

Chrome removes stored copies of images, scripts, and pages. Your bookmarks and saved passwords remain untouched.

Do I need to restart Chrome?

No, but refreshing affected tabs ensures they reload cleanly with fresh assets.

Is this the same as “Reset settings”?

No. Resetting settings returns Chrome to defaults and can disable extensions. Clearing cache is safer and focused.

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