iOS 26, the next software update for the iPhone, will be available shortly. Every year in September, Apple typically releases the next version of the iPhone operating system, which includes new features and a sometimes updated design. However, how often do you take care of your iPhone? How recently did you even clean your cache?

Safari and other web browsers are given a fresh start when the cache is cleared. It may increase efficiency, free up storage, and assist in resolving irksome issues like broken links or sluggish site loading. While it can’t rescue you from a seven-year-old phone or completely replace the system, it can make your browser experience better.

The cache in your browser functions similarly to a digital mini-fridge. The cache saves page components locally to speed up your subsequent visit, regardless of the browser you’re using—Chrome, Safari, Firefox, or another one. Until the little fridge fills up with expired food, which in this case is obsolete site elements, it’s a terrific way to obtain a digital snack or drink without having to go all the way to the kitchen.

Cleaning out the little fridge is the same as clearing your cache. Once you replenish it, you’ll have a better experience than before (your first visit after clearing your iPhone’s cache may be a little slower).

Here’s how to clear your cache and give your iPhone a fast refresh if you haven’t reset the browser in a while.

What happens when your cache is cleared?

Usually, emptying your cache also clears the cookies on websites. Cookies function similarly to browser caches, with the exception that they store user data instead of website data. You have the opportunity to change such settings by clearing your cookies, which could enhance your surfing experience. Keep in mind that deleting your cookies and cache will force you to log out of websites, requiring you to reset any settings and log in again. It may be a helpful repair if you’ve recently made changes to settings that aren’t being implemented correctly, and the initial investment of that time can result in a more seamless experience later on.

How to use Safari to delete the cache on your iPhone

On iPhones, Safari is the default browser. Here are a few quick methods to clear your Safari cache. Following this procedure will impact all devices that are logged into your iCloud account, starting with iOS 11. Consequently, the cache on all of your devices will be erased, and you will have to log in to everything the next time you use it. This is what you should do.

1. Launch the iPhone’s Settings app.

2. Choose Safari under Apps.

3. Select Clear History and Website Data after navigating down to History and Website Data.

4. Select Clear History and Data from the pop-up window; you may select all history or just the last hour.

Then you’re ready!

How to use Chrome to clean the cache on your iPhone

Another well-liked browser for iPhone users is Chrome. Google has made it easier to delete your Chrome cache, which speeds up the data removal procedure.

1. Launch the Chrome application.

2. To access other choices, click the three dots in the lower right corner.

3. In the top menu bar, swipe to Settings.

4. Tap Privacy and Security after scrolling down.

5. To access a new menu, tap Delete browsing data. At the top of the menu, choose the desired time period (anything from Last 15 minutes to All time). Verify that Cookies, Site Data, and Cache Images and Files are all verified. Lastly, choose Delete data from the menu at the bottom.

How to use Firefox to delete the cache on your iPhone

Don’t worry if you’re a Firefox fan. On your iPhone, clearing the cache is simple. Simply do these actions.

1. To access choices, press the hamburger menu located in the lower right corner.

2. At the bottom of the menu, choose Settings.

3. In the Privacy section, choose Data Management.

4. Select Web Site Data from the menu’s top and then select Clear All Web Site Data to remove everything. As an alternative, you may decide to delete just your offline files, tracking protection, offline web data, cookies, cache, and browser history.

How often should my cache be cleared?

The majority of users only need to empty their caches once or twice a month. Usually, at that point, your browser will start to slow down since it has accumulated a large cache. You should err on the side of cleaning your cache more often if you visit a lot of websites.