How To Clear Cache and Cookies in Google Chrome [2026 Guide]

I am going to teach you how to clear cache and cookies in Google Chrome. If web pages are loading strangely, showing outdated content, or you are running into sign-in glitches, clearing your cache and cookies is a quick, safe fix.

The cache stores copies of images and files to speed things up, while cookies remember your preferences and login states. Clearing them can resolve many browsing issues and free up space, though it may sign you out of some sites. Keep your passwords handy.

For an expanded walkthrough of the same process, see this Chrome cache and cookies guide.

Clear Cache and Cookies in Google Chrome [2026 Guide]

Open settings

Start by opening Chrome and looking to the top right corner of the window.

Click the three dot menu icon.

This opens Chrome's main menu where all the key settings live.

From that menu, select Settings.

This takes you to a new tab with all your browser options.

Do not worry, you are not changing anything yet, just navigating.

On the left side of the settings page, click Privacy and security.

This section controls what data Chrome stores and how it handles your browsing privacy.

If you want Chrome to remove data automatically when you close it, see how to clear browsing data on exit.

Choose what to clear

Choose Clear browsing data.

This opens a pop-up window with the options you need.

You will see categories of data you can remove.

For a typical refresh without losing browsing history or saved passwords, focus on two items.

In the pop-up window, check the boxes for Cookies and other site data and Cached images and files.

Cookies are small bits of data that keep you logged in and remember site settings.

Cached images and files are the stored copies of web content that help pages load faster.

If you only want to fix sign in or display issues, leave other options unchecked so you do not remove more than necessary.

Pick a time range

You can also look at the Time range at the top of the window.

If you are troubleshooting a recent issue, selecting Last 24 hours or Last 7 days is often enough.

If problems have been persistent, you might choose All time, but remember that this will sign you out of most sites.

Clear data and reload

When you are ready, click Clear data to delete them.

You may see a brief loading spinner as Chrome removes the files.

Once it is done, reload the site you were having trouble with.

Pages might load a bit slower the first time as Chrome rebuilds the cache, and you may need to sign in again where necessary.

You have cleared your cache and cookies in Chrome.

If you need to clean up address bar suggestions specifically, see how to clear search bar history in Chrome.

When to use this

Use this whenever a site behaves oddly, after major site updates, or as routine maintenance every few months.

I hope this helped you get Chrome running smoothly.

Final thoughts

Clearing cache and cookies resolves display glitches, sign-in problems, and storage bloat with a few clicks. Focus on Cookies and other site data and Cached images and files, pick a time range that matches your issue, and expect to sign in again on some sites. If the problem continues, repeat the steps for a longer time range and reload the affected pages.