The two Library cache folders on a Mac are ~/Library/Caches and /Library/Caches. Neither is categorically off-limits, but that does not make either one safe to empty wholesale. Apple describes cache data as discardable for app developers; it does not give users a blanket instruction to manually delete every cache file. For storage pressure, start with macOS Storage settings. For a problem with one app, use that app’s own troubleshooting options.
What the two Cache folders contain
~/Library/Caches: caches in your user account
The tilde (~) represents your home folder. Apple’s developer guidance describes the user-domain Caches directory as a standard location for discardable cache files used by non-sandboxed apps. Sandboxed apps keep their cache data inside their app containers instead, so not every app’s cache appears in this folder. Apple says cache data is generally not required for an app to operate properly and may be recreated or downloaded, but deleting it while an app is using it can still disrupt that app’s work or behavior. Apple’s file-system guidance and the Foundation caches-directory reference describe the intended role of these locations.
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/Library/Caches: caches in the local, system-wide domain
This is the Library Caches directory at the root of the startup volume, not the one inside your home folder. Apple’s archived file-system guide says cache files relevant to all users may be stored in this local domain. The reviewed Apple documentation does not provide a current, universal list of files in this folder that users can safely delete. Treating it as a system-wide location is a reason not to empty it indiscriminately, especially while macOS or apps are active. Apple’s archived file-system overview explains the domain distinction.
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There is no single yes-or-no answer that applies to every file and moment. Apple’s developer documentation says cache data is temporary and should be recoverable by the app; that is guidance about how apps should manage their data, not a user-facing recommendation to bulk-delete cache folders. Some data can be rebuilt or downloaded, but removing files at the wrong time may interfere with active app or system work. Apple also notes that the system does not back up the temporary or caches directory, so do not treat those locations as a dependable copy of important data. Apple’s guidance on file-system use covers these design expectations.
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In practical terms, do not make wholesale deletion of either folder your routine Mac-cleanup method. If one app is misbehaving, quit it and follow that app’s own troubleshooting instructions or cache-clearing controls. The Apple sources cited here do not authorize a blanket deletion procedure for either general Library cache path.
Do not mistake these for other Library folders
~/Library/Application Supportis not a cache folder. Apple documents it as a place for app-specific support files, data and resources. Do not remove it just because it is inside Library or has an app’s name. See Apple’s archived Library directory reference./System/Libraryis different from/Library. Apple’s archived filesystem overview says Apple-provided resources in/System/Librarymust not be modified. Do not confuse that protected system location with the local-domain cache path.- Documents and app data are not disposable just because they are stored under Library. Confirm the path and the purpose of a file before removing it.
Safer ways to address low storage
Review macOS Storage settings
- On macOS Ventura 13 or later, open System Settings > General > Storage. On earlier macOS releases, open About This Mac > Storage.
- Review the built-in storage recommendations and categories, then remove files or apps you no longer need. Apple’s options can help you identify what is using space without treating cache folders as a general cleanup target.
Apple’s current Free up storage space on Mac instructions describe the Storage view and its options.
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Use Safe Mode when temporary space is needed
If you need temporary space for a task such as installing a macOS update, Apple says starting in Safe Mode clears certain system caches, which are recreated as needed. Startup steps differ between Apple silicon and Intel Macs, so use Apple’s model-specific Safe Mode instructions linked from its storage guidance rather than guessing at the key sequence.
What cleanup can—and cannot—promise
Removing a cache may free space if that cache occupies space, but the reviewed Apple guidance does not establish a predictable amount of space reclaimed or a general performance improvement from manually clearing these folders. A cache is meant to be temporary or recoverable; that does not mean every cache is large, irrelevant, or safe to remove during active work. Use the built-in storage view to find the actual source of storage use before choosing what to remove.
Quick Recap
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- FLY THROUGH EVERYDAY ASSIGNMENTS — Whether you’re cramming for finals, using Apple Intelligence* to summarize class notes, creating presentations, or even playing the latest Apple Arcade game,* MacBook Neo delivers the performance and AI capabilities you need to get things done.
- UP TO 16 HOURS OF BATTERY LIFE — MacBook Neo delivers all day battery life, so you can power through from early morning classes to late night study sessions without worrying about plugging in.
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