How to Clear Cache and Cookies in Google Chrome

Cache and cookies play a vital role in your browsing experience by storing website data for faster loading and personalizing content. However, over time, they can slow down your browser or cause issues with website functionality. Clearing cache and cookies periodically ensures smoother performance and enhanced privacy.

In this guide, we’ll show you how to clear cache and cookies in Google Chrome on both desktop and mobile devices.

What Are Cache and Cookies?

• Cache stores website elements (like images and scripts) to load pages faster on subsequent visits.
• Cookies save data about your browsing activity, such as login information, preferences, and tracking details.

While useful, excessive cache and outdated cookies can cause Chrome to lag or display incorrect information.

How to Clear Cache and Cookies on Desktop

Follow these steps to clear cache and cookies in Google Chrome on a computer:

Step 1: Open Chrome Settings

1. Launch Chrome and click the three dots in the top-right corner.
2. Select Settings from the dropdown menu.

Step 2: Navigate to Clear Browsing Data

1. In the left sidebar, click Privacy and Security.
2. Select Clear browsing data.

Step 3: Choose Time Range and Data Types

1. In the pop-up window, select a time range (e.g., “Last 7 days” or “All time”).
2. Check the boxes for Cookies and other site data and Cached images and files.

Step 4: Clear Data

1. Click Clear data to delete the selected items.
2. Restart Chrome for the changes to take effect.

How to Clear Cache and Cookies on Mobile

For Chrome users on Android or iOS, follow these steps:

Step 1: Open Chrome Settings

1. Open the Chrome app on your mobile device.
2. Tap the three dots in the bottom-right (iOS) or top-right (Android) corner.
3. Select Settings.

Step 2: Access Privacy Settings

1. Scroll down and tap Privacy and Security.
2. Select Clear browsing data.

Step 3: Select Data to Clear

1. Choose a time range (e.g., “Last hour,” “Last 24 hours,” or “All time”).
2. Check Cookies and site data and Cached images and files.

Step 4: Clear Data

1. Tap Clear data or Clear browsing data.
2. Confirm your selection in the pop-up window.

Advanced Options for Cache and Cookies Management

Clear Specific Site Data

If you want to clear data for a specific site:

1. Go to Settings > Privacy and Security > Site settings.
2. Click View permissions and data stored across sites.
3. Search for the website and delete its data.

Enable Auto-Clear on Exit

To automatically clear cookies every time you close Chrome:

1. Navigate to Settings > Privacy and Security > Cookies and other site data.
2. Enable Clear cookies and site data when you close all windows.

Benefits of Clearing Cache and Cookies

1. Improved Performance: Clears outdated data that may slow down your browser.
2. Fixes Website Errors: Resolves loading or formatting issues caused by corrupted cache.
3. Enhanced Privacy: Removes tracking data and browsing history.
4. Updated Content: Ensures you see the latest version of a website.

When to Clear Cache and Cookies

• After encountering login issues or errors on websites.
• If your browser feels sluggish or unresponsive.
• Periodically, to maintain optimal performance and privacy.

Conclusion

Clearing cache and cookies in Google Chrome is a simple yet effective way to boost browser performance and protect your privacy. Whether you’re on desktop or mobile, following the steps above will help keep Chrome running smoothly.

Make it a habit to clear your cache and cookies regularly, especially if you frequently use public computers or experience website errors.