How to Clear iPhone Cache & System Data (2026 Guide)

Published on February 5, 2026 • 6 min read

Is your iPhone running slow or running out of storage? The culprit is often cached data and system files. In this guide, we'll show you exactly how to clear cache on iPhone to free up space and boost performance.

What is iPhone Cache?

Cache is temporary data stored by apps and your browser to load content faster. While helpful, it can grow to take up several gigabytes. Types of cache include:

• Safari cache - Website data, images, and browsing history
• App cache - Temporary files from apps like Instagram, TikTok, Spotify
• System Data - Logs, Siri voices, fonts, and other system files

How to Clear Safari Cache

Safari stores website data that can accumulate over time:

1. Open Settings
2. Scroll down and tap Safari
3. Tap Clear History and Website Data
4. Confirm by tapping Clear History and Data

Note: This will log you out of websites and clear your browsing history.

How to Clear App Cache

Unlike Android, iOS doesn't have a universal "clear cache" button. Here's how to clear app cache:

Method 1: Offload the App

1. Go to Settings > General > iPhone Storage
2. Tap the app you want to clear
3. Tap Offload App
4. Reinstall the app from the App Store

This removes the app but keeps your data. Reinstalling gives you a fresh start with zero cache.

Method 2: Delete and Reinstall

For a complete reset:

1. Delete the app (press and hold > Remove App)
2. Reinstall from the App Store

Warning: This deletes all app data including logins.

Method 3: Use In-App Settings

Some apps have built-in cache clearing:

• Spotify: Settings > Storage > Delete Cache
• Discord: Settings > Storage > Clear Cache
• Telegram: Settings > Data and Storage > Storage Usage > Clear Cache

Clean Up Social Media Cache

SwipeCloud's Social Clean feature identifies cached files from Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, WhatsApp, and more. Delete junk with one tap.

How to Reduce System Data

System Data (formerly "Other Storage") can be tricky to clear:

Restart Your iPhone

A simple restart clears temporary system files:

1. Hold Side Button + Volume Down
2. Slide to power off
3. Wait 30 seconds, then turn back on

Update iOS

Updates often include optimizations that reduce system data:

1. Go to Settings > General > Software Update
2. Download and install any available updates

Clear Message Attachments

1. Go to Settings > General > iPhone Storage > Messages
2. Review and delete large attachments

Apps with the Biggest Cache

These apps typically store the most cache data:

• TikTok - Can use 2-5 GB
• Instagram - 1-3 GB
• Spotify - 1-5 GB (offline music)
• YouTube - 500 MB - 2 GB
• Facebook - 1-2 GB
• WhatsApp - 1-5 GB (media)

How Often Should You Clear Cache?

• Safari cache: Monthly
• Social media apps: Every 2-4 weeks
• Streaming apps: When you need space
• System restart: Weekly

Conclusion

Clearing iPhone cache is an effective way to free up storage and potentially speed up your device. Start with Safari cache, then tackle heavy apps like TikTok and Instagram. For ongoing maintenance, use SwipeCloud to identify and clean up social media junk files.

Ready to clean up? Download SwipeCloud free and reclaim your storage today!