How to clear the cache in Google Chrome
Press Ctrl + Shift + Delete (Mac: Cmd + Shift + Delete) in Chrome. Set Time range to All time, tick only Cached images and files, and click Delete data.
This fixes most pages that load wrong or show old content, without signing you out of websites.
Applies to current Chrome on Windows, Mac, ChromeOS, Android and iPhone/iPad. Leaving Cookies and other site data unticked keeps you signed in.
Clear Chrome's cache
Windows, Mac and ChromeOS
- Open Chrome and press Ctrl+Shift+Delete (Mac: Cmd+Shift+Delete), or click ⋮ > Delete browsing data.
- Choose a Time range - All time for a full clear.
- Tick Cached images and files. Untick the others if you want to keep history and stay signed in.
- Click Delete data.
Android
- Open Chrome and tap ⋮ > Delete browsing data (in some versions History > Delete browsing data).
- Choose a time range and tick Cached images and files.
- Tap Delete data.
iPhone and iPad
- Open Chrome and tap ... (bottom right) > Delete browsing data.
- Choose a time range and select Cached images and files.
- Tap Delete browsing data, then confirm.
Clear the cache for one website only
Click the site settings icon to the left of the address bar > Cookies and site data (or Site settings) > Delete data. This clears cookies and cached files for that site only - you'll be signed out of it.
Hard refresh instead
To reload just the current page and ignore the cache, press Ctrl+Shift+R or Shift+F5 (Mac: Cmd+Shift+R). Web developers can open DevTools (F12), then right-click the reload button and choose Empty Cache and Hard Reload.
What gets deleted
| Item | What happens if you delete it |
|---|---|
| Cached images and files | Pages load slightly slower the first time; nothing personal is lost |
| Cookies and site data | You're signed out of most sites |
| Browsing history | Your history list and address-bar suggestions are cleared |
| Passwords / autofill | Saved passwords and forms are removed - usually leave these unticked |
Frequently asked questions
Is it safe to clear the cache?
Yes. Cached files are temporary copies that Chrome downloads again as needed.
Will clearing the cache delete my passwords?
No, unless you tick Passwords and other sign-in data in the Advanced tab.
How often should I clear the cache?
Only when something isn't working. Clearing it regularly just makes sites load slower.