How to clean cache on your iPhone

Running out of iPhone storage feels a lot like having a closet you can’t seem to close – except this digital clutter isn’t just taking up space, it’s actually slowing down your device like never before. But with apps turning heavyweight and high-resolution concert videos that we absolutely cannot do without, there isn’t a lot we can do to prevent this.

But what if we tell you there are a few ways you can declutter your iPhone, without having to chuck those e-memories into the bin?

By clearing your cache, you’re essentially giving your device some breathing space. Not only will you free up surprising amounts of storage (making space for more apps, and, of course, cat pictures), but your phone will also feel noticeably snappier.

The best part? You don’t need more than a few couple of minutes and some taps to get this task out of your way. Here’s how to clear the cache on your iOS device.

How to clear Safari cache on your iPhone

If you’re knee-deep into the Apple eco-system, you’re probably using its Safari browser on a regular basis. However, before you check out the steps, it is crucial to know that this activity may log you out of all your accounts and close tabs that could be important to you. Once you’re sure you don’t need any of these, you can go ahead and try out the following steps:

Step 1: Navigate to your iPhone’s Settings app, and tap on ‘Apps’

Step 2: Locate Safari on this list and tap on the option

Step 3: Find the option that reads ‘Clear History and Website Data’

Step 4: Your iPhone should then prompt you if you would like to go ahead with the action; tap on yes if you’re sure. You also have the option of additionally choosing between your preferred timeframe or All History

Step 5: Once done, you can go ahead and start browsing again

ALSO READ: Understanding force stop and cache clearing on Android: Is it necessary?

While you may have been logged out of your accounts, your auto-fill information will typically remain untouched. However, you can always log in using your saved passwords once you begin browsing again.

How to clear Google Chrome cache on your iPhone

If you’re a Chrome loyalist, you may have to follow slightly different steps to complete this activity. Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Open the Chrome browser on your iPhone and tap on the three-dot menu at the bottom right corner

Step 2: Next, you should be able to see ‘Clear Browsing Data’ as an option in this list

Step 3: Once you tap on this, Chrome will let you tap on your desired timeframe. If you wish to clear all history, you can choose ‘All Time’

Step 4: Then, Google will allow you to choose what you would like to delete, such as Browsing History, Cookies and Site Data, Cached Images and Files, Saved Passwords, and Autofill Data

Step 5: Tap Delete once you’re sure of your selection, and you should be good to go

How often should you clear the cache on your iPhone?

It is always a good thumb rule to clear the cache on your Android phone or iPhone every once in two months. Doing this can get rid of the temporary data on your device, which otherwise takes up a lot of space. It improves performance and can fix glitches that may occur in your app or browser if need be.

And, of course, if you find yourself spending more than a few hours on your phone every day, you probably owe it an hour of cleaning every now and then to ensure smooth functioning and long-term usage. So, keep that procrastination at bay, and subscribe to Unboxed by Croma for more such tips and tricks.