How to clean up cache on MacBook for free?

Cache cleanup on a Mac: when is it actually necessary?

1 - Cache files exist for a reason: they allow macOS and applications to avoid repeating work. Deleting caches is therefore not normally a performance optimization.

2 - When does clearing caches make sense?

Generally only when:

A - You are short of storage and a particular cache is unusually large.

B - An application is misbehaving and rebuilding its cache may help.

C - You are troubleshooting a specific problem.

3 - Otherwise, deleting caches simply means they may have to be recreated, potentially causing additional CPU, disk or network activity.

4 - What does Apple say?

Apple states that macOS can automatically clear caches and logs that are safe to delete when storage space is needed.

Apple: Optimize storage space on your Mac

5 - Apple also explains that System Data is a broad category that can include caches, logs, temporary files, virtual-memory files, application support files and other data. Its size varies according to the current state of the Mac.

Apple: Change Storage settings on Mac

6 - So a large System Data figure does not automatically mean you should delete caches.

What I recommend

7 - I would not routinely empty ~/Library/Caches and I would not install a third-party “Mac cleaner” just for this purpose.

Instead:

8 -  >> System Settings >> General >> Storage

Look at what is actually consuming your storage and investigate unusually large categories before deleting anything.

9 - Apple's storage guidance is here:

Apple: Free up storage space on Mac

In conclusion, do not clean caches simply because they exist. Find the storage problem first, then decide whether anything actually needs to be removed.

StingRayCoupe wrote:

I am still looking for the best FREE way to clean up the cache on my macbook?

Shut down and restart once a week.

Cache files are an important part of your macOS for running smoothly and efficiently...

if you want to do more—

do a SafeBoot Start up your Mac in safe mode - Apple Support

certain system caches get cleared and rebuilt. Reboot as normal and test. Caches get rebuilt automatically.

How often do you shut down your MBA?

Shutting down each night clears temporary system cache files, virtual memory swap files, and active session data stored in short-term RAM memory.

The temporary files can get damaged/corrupt and can cause problems with apps as well as the system.  Shutting down each night clears them out so they are rebuil when the Mac is booted up and the apps opened.

• However, booting into Safe Mode as leroydouglas suggested and then booting normally is a great idea as it will do the following:

• NOTE: Safe Mode boot can take longer,  up to 2 - 3 minutes as it's doing the following:
• Verifies your startup disk and attempts to repair directory issues, if needed
• Loads only required kernel extensions (prevents 3rd party kernel/extensions from loading)
• Prevents Startup Items and Login Items from opening automatically
• Disables user-installed fonts 
• Deletes font caches, kernel cache, and other system cache files

Note:  if you have a wireless keyboard with rechargeable batteries connect it with its charging cable before booting into Safe Mode.  This makes it act as a wired keyboard as will assure a successful boot into Safe Mode.

"How to clean up cache on MacBook for free?: I am still looking for the best FREE way to clean up the cache on my macbook?"

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Best Fee Way to Clean Up Cache:

Using the Library:

Empty them, and then restart our Mac. Add the Date Added to the menubar of Trash. You will need to restart your Mac for this deletion to take affect.

1. Go to: the Desktop
2. Click: Go menu
3. Select: Go to Folder...
4. Type: ~/Library/caches
5. Select: top item
6. Drag & Drop: All contents all to the Trash.
7. Empty: these front the Trash
8. Restart your Mac

Clear the System Data:

It takes some effort, but here is my User Tip on doing so: How to Use Finder to Clear “System Data" on a Mac - User Tip

StingRayCoupe wrote:

I am still looking for the best FREE way to clean up the cache on my macbook?

Do not use a paid for third party app to "clean up" cache.

What cache, browser, user, apps, files, do you want to "clean up"?

If you are just wanting to free up storage space:

Free up storage space on Mac - Apple Support

Use Onyx . . . similar to CleanMyMac but unlikely to brick your Mac . . . and it's free!

ONYX

Why do you think you need to clean any caches? What problem are you having?

Over decades of using Macs I have never once found it necessary to "clean" a cache file.

Start from the beginning and describe your perceived need to do that.