Android Guide

How to Clear an App Cache Without Losing Your Saved Data

Clearing an app's cache usually removes temporary files, but some apps may keep important data there, so check what is saved before proceeding.

Last updated:

Reviewed for accuracy by Jesse Nickles

Know What You're Removing

Clearing cache may refresh stale content or free some temporary space, but it may not fix crashes or low storage. Google's Android storage guidance distinguishes two options:

  • Clear cache: removes temporary app files.
  • Clear storage (or Clear data): removes saved app data, potentially including local favorites, settings, drafts, or downloads.

Apps that store important data in cache may lose it when the cache is cleared. Android may also delete cached files when storage is low. See Android's developer documentation.

Clear Only the Cache

  1. Back up or export irreplaceable notes, projects, offline files, or unsynced changes. If you cannot, consider leaving the cache alone.
  2. Open Settings > Apps, find the app, and open its Storage & cache or Storage screen.
  3. Tap Clear cache only. Menu names and available buttons differ by phone and Android version.

Use Android Settings; in-app cleanup may delete downloads or other saved content. Do not tap Clear storage or Clear data: signing in again may not restore erased local data.

What Might Change Afterwards

  • Temporary images, thumbnails, and pages may need to load again, making the first launch slower.
  • Content available only through a cache may stop working offline until it is downloaded again.
  • Saved settings and favorites should remain unless the app stores them improperly.

If anything looks missing, avoid further cleanup. Check the app's help or contact its developer.

For broader cleanup, see our guide to freeing Android storage without losing photos.