Clearing Safari Cache on iPhone and iPad: Step-by-Step Guide

Introduction / Why This Is Needed

Safari cache consists of temporary files (images, scripts, CSS) that the browser saves to speed up the loading of frequently visited websites. Over time, the cache can grow to hundreds of megabytes, leading to:

• Slow Safari performance — the browser spends resources managing outdated files.
• Website display errors — a stale cache can cause pages to render incorrectly.
• Storage shortage — especially on devices with 64 GB or less.

Clearing the cache is a quick and safe operation that does not delete passwords, bookmarks, or history (when using the standard method). After clearing, Safari will reload websites from scratch, which might slightly slow down the first visit but will improve the browser's stability in the long run.

Requirements / Preparation

To follow this guide, you will need:

1. An iPhone or iPad with iOS 15 or later installed (instructions are valid for iOS 16/17/18).
2. Access to the Settings app — the standard system app that requires no additional permissions.
3. A stable internet connection (optional) — websites will reload after clearing.

Important: Clearing via "Clear History and Website Data" also deletes browsing history. If you want to keep your history, use the alternative method of clearing data for individual sites (see the "Possible Issues" section).

Step 1: Open the Settings App

On your device's home screen, locate the Settings app icon (a gray gear). Tap it to enter iOS system settings.

💡 Tip: If you don't see the Settings app, check if it's hidden in a folder or if restrictions are enabled via Screen Time.

Step 2: Go to the Safari Section

In the settings list, scroll down to the Safari block (usually located between "Photos" and "Music"). Tap it to open the browser's settings menu.

Step 3: Find the Clear Option

In the Privacy & Security section (the first block in the Safari menu), locate the Clear History and Website Data option.

• If the option is active (blue), tap it.
• If the option is inactive (gray), it means there is no cache data to clear (e.g., you just cleared it or are using Private Browsing mode).

⚠️ Important: This option deletes browsing history, cache, and website data (like autofill forms). Saved passwords, bookmarks, and Reading Lists remain untouched.

Step 4: Confirm the Clear

After tapping, a pop-up warning will appear:

"Clear History and Website Data? This will remove your history, cache, and data for all websites."

Tap Clear History and Data (the red button). The process takes 1–3 seconds. Once complete, you'll automatically return to the Safari settings menu.

Verifying the Result

To ensure the cache is cleared:

1. Go back to Settings → Safari.
2. The Clear History and Website Data option should be inactive (gray), unless you've visited sites after clearing.
3. Launch Safari and try opening a site that previously loaded quickly (e.g., a news portal). The first load may take 2–3 seconds longer — this is normal as the browser reloads files.
4. Check that your browsing history in Safari is empty (open Safari → tap the Bookmarks icon → History tab).

Possible Issues

1. Error: "Failed to Clear History"

Cause: Screen Time restrictions are enabled, preventing data deletion. Solution:

• Go to Settings → Screen Time → Content & Privacy Restrictions.
• Disable the "Deleting Apps" option or enter the restriction code to allow clearing.

2. Need to Clear Cache but Keep History

Solution: In iOS 15+, you can delete data for individual sites:

• Settings → Safari → Advanced → Website Data.
• Here you'll see a list of sites with their cached data. Swipe left on any site and tap Delete to clear the cache for that site only.

3. Cache Not Fully Cleared

Cause: Some data may be stored elsewhere (e.g., cache of individual apps using WebKit). Solution:

• Clear cache in specific app settings (e.g., social media apps with built-in browsers).
• Restart your device: Power button → Power Off → Power On.

4. Safari Works Even Slower After Clearing

Cause: The browser is reloading all website resources. This is temporary. Solution: Wait 10–15 minutes of active Safari use — the cache will start repopulating, and speed will return to normal. If the issue persists, check for other causes (e.g., poor internet or outdated iOS).

5. "Clear History and Website Data" Option Is Missing

Cause: Using an iOS version below 15.0 or "Prevent Cross-Site Tracking" is enabled in Extreme mode. Solution:

• Update iOS to the latest version (Settings → General → Software Update).
• Disable "Prevent Cross-Site Tracking": Settings → Safari → Privacy & Security → uncheck "Prevent Cross-Site Tracking".