How To Clear Instagram Cache

Last Updated on July 26, 2025 by Marie Watkins

If your Instagram app has been lagging, loading slowly, or just acting a little off, it might be time for a quick clean-up. One of the easiest ways to get things running smoothly again is by clearing the cache. Cleaning the Instagram cache allows your phone to work better, frees up internal storage and fixes usual bugs without deleting the app.

In this guide, we’ll show you exactly how to clear Instagram cache on both iPhone and Android devices. You’ll learn what the cache does, why it builds up, and the benefits of clearing it from time to time without risking your account or data. 

Whether you’re a casual scroller or a daily content creator, keeping your app optimized makes a noticeable difference. Let’s get into it.

What Is Instagram Cache?

Your Instagram temporarily keeps the cache, which helps the app work more smoothly and quickly. Files included in it are:

• Profile pictures
• Thumbnails
• Recently viewed posts
• Search History

Photos and other items you look up on Instagram may be kept in your phone’s storage. This makes things load more quickly the subsequent times you view the content, yet eventually, the buildup can negatively affect software performance.

Any problems that make your app heavy or buggy can sometimes be fixed with a clear cache.

Importance of Clearing Cache on Instagram

You can use clearing your Instagram cache to:

• Free up valuable storage space
• Fix app glitches or lag.
• Speed up the app’s performance.
• Remove outdated or corrupted data.
• Improve the overall user experience.

However, keep in mind that clearing the cache will also remove saved preferences like login info and search suggestions.  There won’t be any changes to your account or followers, but some items might take more time to show up when you open the app again.

How to Clear Instagram Cache?

Although a “clear cache” button is not in the Instagram app, you can still use your device’s settings to clear data.

Here’s how to do it, depending on whether you’re using an iPhone or Android device.

Steps to Clear Instagram Cache on iPhone

Unlike Android, iPhones don’t allow you to clear the app cache directly. You’ll need to delete and reinstall the app:

• Go to Settings > General > iPhone Storage
• Scroll down and tap on Instagram.
• Tap Delete App (this removes all data, including cache)
• Go to the App Store and reinstall Instagram.

Don’t worry! Everything on your account, including your posts, is safeguarded by the cloud. Try logging in once more right after you have reinstalled. 

Steps To Clear Instagram Cache on Android

People using Android often find it simpler. You can choose to clear the cache without having to remove the app:

• Open Settings on your Android phone
• Tap Apps or Apps & notifications
• Select Instagram
• Tap Storage & cache
• Tap Clear Cache

Your actual profile, logins and key information will survive, but your app will be clean of any temporary files.

5 Benefits of Clearing Cache on Instagram

Thinking about whether it is a good idea to find out? Here are some clear wins from cleaning out your cache:

Improves App Speed

Removing old data lets the app run smoother and respond faster.

Fixes Crashing or Freezing

Outdated cache files can cause bugs. A quick clear often fixes the issue.

Helps You Use Less Storage

Clearing the cache on Instagram can often release many hundreds of MBs of space. Removing it opens up space in your house.

Refreshes Content

Up-to-date suggestions, feeds and explore results will show up when the browser is cleared.

Boosts Privacy

If you want to forget a search or browsing history you don’t wish to keep, clearing the cache makes the traces disappear.

FAQs

Will clearing the Instagram cache delete my saved posts or DMs?

No, clearing the cache only removes temporary files. It doesn’t affect your saved posts, messages, or followers since that data is stored on Instagram’s servers.

How often should I clear my Instagram cache?

If you use Instagram regularly, clearing the cache every 2–4 weeks is a good habit. It helps avoid performance issues and keeps the app running smoothly.

Can clearing the cache fix media not loading?

Yes, sometimes old or corrupted cache files can block images or videos from loading properly. Clearing it refreshes the app and often fixes such issues.

Is there a way to clear search history only?

Yes, Instagram allows you to clear just the search history. Go to Your Activity > Recent Searches and tap “Clear All” without affecting other data.

Will it help save battery?

Indirectly, yes. A smoother app with less junk data uses fewer resources, which may reduce background activity and slightly improve your phone’s battery life.

Conclusion

Getting rid of your Instagram cache can help the app work well and give you extra storage on your device. Either iPhone or Android users can simply tap a few times and enjoy the benefits. You can also schedule software updates that can boost your security and allow you to use your devices more efficiently. 

I hope that now you are able to clear your Instagram cache and each time you go on Instagram, it will be a better and quicker experience.