How to Clear Cache in Your Browser

When you encounter any problems in the look and function of a website or online platform, your first step is to clear your browser’s cache.

Cache (pronounced “cash”) is a tool used by a browser to store a copy of a website’s data as a group of files. This allows a browser to load web pages faster because it already has the information on hand. That means your first visit to a website is slower than your return visits!

However, issues occur when websites are updated and the saved information conflicts with the newly coded updates. While a browser would normally attempt to fetch this new data, the process is not always perfect.

To troubleshoot, you need to clear your cache and discard this saved data. This will help you determine whether the issue is related to caching or is an issue with the website.

Clearing your cache is very simple and straightforward. The way you go about clearing cache is dependent on the browser and operating system you are using.

For Google Chrome and Microsoft Edge:

Use the shortcut Ctrl+Shift+I (Windows/Linux) or Cmd+Shift+I (Mac) to open the Developer Tools.

Navigate to the upper left-hand side of the page to right-click the reload icon near your search bar. You’ll see a drop-down list.

From there, select the option to “Empty Cache and Hard Reload”.

Note: This will clear the cache for the specific website you are on, so if you have cached items for other websites, this will not impact them.

For Firefox:

Use the shortcut Ctrl+Shift+I (Windows/Linux) or Cmd+Shift+I (Mac) to open the Developer Tools.

From here, select the Network tab and select the box next to “Disable Cache.”

Finally, reload the page using the following shortcut: Ctrl+Shift+R (Windows / Linux) or Cmd+Shift+R (Mac).

Note: This will clear the cache for the specific website you are on, so if you have cached items for other websites, this will not impact them.

For Safari (iPhone/iPad):

There isn’t an option in your browser to clear your cache. In order to refresh the page, you’ll need to go to Settings on your phone, select your phone’s web browser, and scroll down under your browser settings to select the option to “Clear History and Website Data”.

You will then be prompted to confirm your choice to clear your history, cookies, and browsing data. Click “Clear History and Data”.

Safari for Mac:

Use the following command: Command+Option+E

This will empty the cache. From there, select Shift and click “Reload” in the toolbar.

There you have it! Your cache is cleared.

In all cases, clearing your cache will lead to the site completely reloading. If the issue was related to the cache, the site will look and function as normal. If you’re still experiencing issues, try a second hard refresh.

Beyond that, try checking for updates on your browser and restarting your browser and/or device afterward. If issues persist, they may be due to issues related to the site itself.