If you’ve noticed TikTok running slower than usual, videos buffering, or your app crashing randomly, the issue might be with your TikTok cache. Over time, cached data can pile up and cause problems, especially on devices with limited storage.
The good news? It’s incredibly easy to clear the TikTok cache, whether you’re using an Android phone, iPhone, or a PC. In this step-by-step guide, we’ll walk you through how to clear TikTok cache across devices without losing your account data, drafts, or saved videos.
What is TikTok Cache?
TikTok cache refers to temporary files that the app stores on your device to help load content faster. This includes:
- Thumbnails
- Profile pictures
- Preloaded videos
- App scripts
- Saved search results
Why Clearing TikTok Cache is Important
Here’s what clearing your TikTok cache can help with:
- Free up storage space (handy on low-storage phones)
- Fix app crashes or lag
- Improve performance and loading speed
- Resolve issues with uploading or drafts
- Help the app load new content instead of buggy cached files
Don’t worry: Clearing cache won’t delete your drafts, saved videos, or account. It only removes temporary junk files.
How to Clear TikTok Cache on Android Phone
Clear Cache from TikTok App Settings (Recommended)
TikTok has a built-in feature to clear cache easily.
- Open the TikTok app on your Android phone.
- Tap the Profile icon at the bottom right.
- Tap the three-line menu (☰) or the gear icon (⚙️) in the top right.
- Go to Settings and Privacy.
- Scroll down and tap “Free up space”.
- Under the “Cache” section, tap Clear.
You’ll see how many MBs or GBs the cache is using before clearing.
Clear TikTok Cache from Android System Settings
If TikTok is crashing or won’t open, try clearing the cache via phone settings.
- Open your phone’s Settings.
- Tap on Apps or Apps & notifications.
- Scroll to find and tap TikTok.
- Tap Storage & cache.
- Tap Clear Cache (you can also tap Clear Data, but that logs you out and deletes app data—use only if app is buggy beyond cache fix).
How to Clear TikTok Cache on iPhone (iOS)
iPhones don’t have a system-wide “clear cache” option like Android, but TikTok provides an in-app option.
- Open TikTok on your iPhone.
- Go to your Profile.
- Tap the menu icon (☰) in the top right.
- Tap Settings and Privacy.
- Scroll to Free up space.
- Tap Clear Cache.
This will remove cached images, temporary files, and free up storage on your iPhone.
Alternative: Reinstall the App (if TikTok is buggy)
If the app is freezing or behaving weirdly:
- Press and hold the TikTok app.
- Tap Remove App > Delete App.
- Reinstall TikTok from the App Store.
Logging back in restores your account. This is an aggressive way to clear all cached files.
How to Clear TikTok Cache on PC or Web Browser
Unlike phones, TikTok doesn’t store as much cache on PC, but browsers still keep cookies, cached images, and site data that may cause issues.
Clear TikTok Website Cache in Google Chrome
If you use TikTok via Chrome, follow these steps:
- Open Chrome and go to tiktok.com.
- Click the lock icon next to the address bar.
- Click Site Settings.
- Click Clear Data or go to Privacy and Security > Cookies and site data > See all site data and permissions.
- Search for TikTok and click the Trash bin icon next to the tiktok.com result.
This removes all cached files, cookies, and local storage tied to TikTok on Chrome.
Clear TikTok Cache on Microsoft Edge or Firefox
- Open your browser settings.
- Navigate to Privacy, Search, and Services (Edge) or Privacy & Security (Firefox).
- Click Clear Browsing Data.
- Select Cached images and files and Cookies.
- Choose TikTok.com from the list (if available), or just clear the cache entirely.
Bonus: How to Check Cache Storage on TikTok
Want to know how much space TikTok’s cache is taking?
- Open TikTok and go to Settings and Privacy.
- Tap Free up space.
You’ll see how much is used by:
- Cache
- Downloads
- Drafts
From here, you can selectively clear each one.
FAQs
Does Clearing TikTok Cache Delete Drafts or Saved Videos?
No. TikTok cache only includes temporary files used to make the app load faster.
What happens if I clear my TikTok cache?
Clearing the TikTok cache removes temporary files like thumbnails and video previews. It does not delete your drafts, posts, or personal info.
Conclusion
Clearing the TikTok cache is a simple yet powerful way to improve app performance, free up storage, and fix random glitches, without affecting your drafts or account. Whether you’re using an Android, iPhone, or browsing on PC, the steps are quick and beginner-friendly. Make it a habit to clear your TikTok cache regularly, and you’ll enjoy a smoother, faster experience every time you open the app.
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