Over time, Facebook’s cache of temporary data can build up and cause issues, sometimes making the app run slowly, crash continually, or causing old posts to not refresh. Clearing Facebook’s cache solves nearly all of these issues and allows the app to function properly.
Cache is data that Facebook stores on your phone or computer that is used temporarily. Cache allows apps to load faster, but excessive cache causes problems. Think of it the same way you would think of cleaning out old files from a messy drawer, everything looks better.
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Why Should You Clear Facebook Cache?
Deleting the Facebook app cache fixes common problems like:
- Improving loading speed – Old cached data will slow the app down
- Resolving crashes/freezes – Too much cached data could make the app unstable
- Ensure up-to-date content is available – Old cached data may post outdated newsfeed posts and pictures
- Free up storage space – The cache files take up storage space on your mobile device
- Fix login issues – Login cached data may become corrupt
How to Clear Facebook Cache on iPhone
Method 1: Clear Cache Within Facebook App
This is the simplest method to clear Facebook cache on iPhone:
Open Facebook app on your iPhone, tap on the menu button in the right bottom corner (three horizontal lines).
- Scroll all the way down and tap “Settings & Privacy.”
- Under that tap on “Settings.”
- Under the Settings section, tap on “Browser” in the list.
- In the next page, look for “Cookies and cache” and tap on the clear button next to it.
- After that you will be asked to confirm your choice.
Method 2: Clear Cache Through iPhone Settings
In case the previous method does not work, please try the following method:
- Open the iPhone Settings app
- Scroll down to โGeneralโ
- Tap โiPhone Storageโ
- In the apps list, find the app โFacebookโ and press it
- Tap the โOffload Appโ to not only remove the app but keep the app data
- Re-download Facebook from the App Store one more time
Method 3: Clear Safari Data for Facebook
If you’re using Safari to access Facebook:
- Open Settings on your iPhone
- Scroll down to “Safari” and tap
- Tap “Clear History and Website Data“
- And confirm by tapping “Clear History and Data“
That will clear the Facebook cache and other website data at the same time.
How to Clear Facebook Cache on Android
Method 1: Using Android Settings
- Open the Settings app on your phone.
- Tap on “Apps” or “Apps & Notifications” (it may vary on your phone).
- Scroll down to your app list, find, and tap on the “Facebook” app.
- Tap on “Storage” or “Storage & Cache“.
- Tap on “Clear Cache” (don’t tap “Clear Data” – it deletes everything).
Method 2: Clear Cache in Facebook App
- Open the Facebook app.
- Tap on the menu button (three lines) on the top right of the app.
- Scroll down to “Settings & Privacy.”
- Tap on “Settings.”
- Find “Browser” and tap on that.
- Tap on “Clear” next to “Cookies and cache.”
What Happens After Clearing Cache?
When you clear your Facebook cache, you may experience the following:
- Facebook may take a bit longer to load, at first – The app will need to reconstruct the cached files
- You may have to log back in to the app – The temporary login files are removed
- Some of your settings may have reverted back – Some of the preferences get reset
- It will perform much better – The app will run better overall
Don’t worry – your posts, photos, and friends are all secure. Your cached and temporary files are what are removed.
How Often Should You Clear Facebook Cache?
Typically, it is a good idea for most users to clear out Facebook’s cache every few weeks or when there are issues. You might consider clearing your cache even more frequently if you:
- Use Facebook frequently every day
- Have limited storage on your device
- See the app being slow or crashing
- Get old posts that will not refresh
Final Thoughts
Clearing your Facebook appโs cache is an effective way to resolve many of the common issues you may experience with the app. Try the option that works best for your device. Most people say that, after they cleared their cache, their Facebook app ran much better. If you continue to have issues, consider updating the app or restarting the device to address the issue.
Keep in mind that clearing your cache is done in a safe place. Clearing your cache will never delete anything important from your Facebook account.
All that takes place in this process is temporary files are cleared. These temporary files, over time, can cause the app to run slower, thereby impacting performance and functionality.
Consider clearing your cache part of regular phone maintenance to keep your Facebook app running smoothly. For more Facebook tips, you can also learn how to Comment Anonymously on Facebook Groups.