Clearing the cache in Safari 11 helps resolve slow loading, unresponsive tabs, and inconsistent page behavior. This process removes stored temporary files while keeping your bookmarks and passwords intact.
Follow the structured guidance below to understand when and how to clear cache Safari 11, compare methods, and troubleshoot common issues safely.
| Action | What It Clears | When to Use | Impact on Data |
|---|---|---|---|
| Clear History and Website Data | All cached files, cookies, and history | Fix persistent site issues or privacy concerns | Signs you out of some sites and removes local history |
| Develop → Empty Caches | Only temporary cache files | Quick cleanup during development or troubleshooting | Preserves history, cookies, and other site data |
| Website Data Management | Site-specific cache and cookies | Resolve issues for individual websites | Allows selective removal without full reset |
| Reset Safari | All site data, preferences, and history | Severe recurring problems after other steps | Most invasive; reconfigure settings and sign in again |
How Safari 11 Cache Works
Purpose of Temporary Files
Safari 11 stores images, scripts, and style sheets in a cache to speed up page loading. These files are reused on subsequent visits, reducing bandwidth and improving performance.
Risks of an Overloaded Cache
When the cache grows too large or contains outdated fragments, pages may display incorrectly, layout shifts can occur, and memory usage may increase. Clearing the cache periodically keeps browsing smooth and predictable.
When to Clear Cache Safari 11
Signs You Need to Clear Cache
Use these indicators to decide when a cache cleanup is appropriate: pages failing to load assets, strange formatting, failed logins, or noticeably slower performance on previously fast sites.
Recommended Maintenance Schedule
For regular users, clearing major site data every few weeks is sufficient. Developers or frequent troubleshooters may choose to empty the cache more often, especially after major browser or OS updates.
Step-by-Step Clearing Methods
Standard Clear History and Website Data
Open Safari, choose Safari → Clear History and Website Data, select a time range, and confirm. This removes cached files, cookies, and history while keeping bookmarks and passwords safe.
Using Develop Menu to Empty Caches
Enable Develop → Show Develop in Menu Bar, then choose Develop → Empty Caches. This removes only temporary cache files, leaving cookies, history, and other site data unchanged.
Best Practices and Recommendations
- Use Develop → Empty Caches for routine maintenance without losing sign-in states.
- Schedule a full Clear History and Website Data cleanup monthly or after major browser updates.
- Check Website Data settings to manage permissions and prevent unnecessary local storage.
- Keep Safari updated to benefit from cache handling improvements and security fixes.
- Monitor performance after clearing cache to identify problematic sites or extensions.
FAQ
Reader questions
Will clearing cache log me out of websites?
Yes, clearing cache and website data typically signs you out of sites, so be ready to re-enter credentials for services and web apps.
Does emptying the cache delete browsing history?
Yes, using Clear History and Website Data removes local browsing history and cache, whereas Empty Caches alone preserves history while refreshing temporary files.
How can I clear cache for specific sites only in Safari 11?
Use Website Data in Preferences to review and remove site-specific data, or manage individual site cookies and cache entries before performing a full cleanup.
Will clearing cache improve Safari performance on older Macs?
It often helps by freeing memory and resolving corrupted cached assets, though hardware limitations and network conditions also affect overall browsing speed.