How to Clear the Dropbox Cache (2026)
The Dropbox cache stores temporary copies of recently changed files. It usually clears itself within three days, but deleting it manually can fix stubborn sync errors and reclaim disk space. Here’s how, on each platform.
1. Pause Syncing First
Before clearing, click the Dropbox icon (tray on Windows, menu bar on Mac), open the menu, and choose Pause syncing. This prevents files from being mid-transfer while you work.
2. Clear the Cache on Windows
- Open File Explorer.
- Paste this into the address bar and press Enter:
%HOMEPATH%\Dropbox\.dropbox.cache - Select everything inside the folder and delete it, then empty the Recycle Bin.
The .dropbox.cache folder is hidden — pasting the path opens it directly without changing your hidden-files setting.
3. Clear the Cache on Mac
- In Finder, press Cmd + Shift + G.
- Enter:
~/Dropbox/.dropbox.cache - Drag the cache contents to the Trash, then empty the Trash.
4. Clear the Cache on Mobile
- iOS: Open the Dropbox app → avatar → Settings → Clear cache.
- Android: Dropbox app → avatar → Settings → Clear cache (or clear it via the app’s storage settings in Android system settings).
5. Resume Syncing
Reopen the Dropbox menu and choose Resume syncing. Dropbox rebuilds the cache as needed — deleting it doesn’t remove any of your actual files, only temporary copies.
6. Troubleshooting
I can’t find the .dropbox.cache folder
It’s hidden. Paste the full path above into the address bar (Windows) or Go-to-Folder (Mac) rather than browsing for it. Confirm you’re inside your main Dropbox folder.
My sync issue persists after clearing
Restart the Dropbox app, then your computer. If it continues, sign out and back in, or reinstall the desktop app — your files re-download from the cloud.
The cache filled up again quickly
That’s normal — Dropbox caches recent changes and clears them automatically every few days. Frequent large edits mean a larger cache. Use online-only files (Smart Sync) if local space is tight.
Keeping your files tidy matters more than clearing temp data. Carly files new email attachments into the right Dropbox folder automatically, starting at $35/month, so your library stays organized without manual sorting.
Related Dropbox guides: How to free up space · How to organize Dropbox · How to unlink Dropbox · How to add Dropbox to File Explorer.
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