Modern Xiaomi smartphones, which run on Android and the proprietary shell MIUI or HyperOS, accumulate a huge number of temporary files during operation. This data, known as cache, is created by applications to speed up their launch and operation, but over time it can reach tens of gigabytes. Excess junk files often causes slowdowns of interface work, unexpected program departures and a lack of free space in internal memory.
It is important for users to understand that there is a difference between cleaning the cache of a particular application and completely cleaning the system cache. The first method is secure and does not delete your personal data, while the second requires deeper intervention in the system. Regular maintenance of the device helps to maintain its performance at a high level even after several years of active use.
In this article, we will take a look at all the ways you can delete temporary files, from standard system tools to advanced methods through the recovery menu, and learn how to distinguish useful data from digital garbage and safely free up space on your device.
What is cache and why remove it on Xiaomi
Cache is a clipboard that stores temporary files necessary for fast software operation. When you run a browser, social network or game, the system stores some data (images, scripts, logs) in a special partition of memory. When you re-access the application, it downloads information from the cache, rather than downloading it again, which saves traffic and time.
But over time, the structure of these files is disrupted, old data can conflict with new application updates, causing operating system errors, and some programs can't automatically delete old files, inflating their size to an enormous scale, especially for messengers like Telegram or Viber, which can take up to 10-15 GB of space.
⚠️ Caution: Clearing the cache does not delete your personal photos, contacts or correspondence. However, clearing the data (not the cache) will completely reset the application to the state after installation, removing logins and settings.
There are several types of caching that are worth distinguishing: application cache, system process cache and cache. DNS. Each of them affects the smartphone in its own way. DNS-Cache can cause Wi-Fi connection problems even if password is entered correctly.
Cleaning the cache through the standard Security app
The easiest and safest way to free up space on Xiaomi smartphones is to use a built-in system tool. The MIUI shell and the new HyperOS have a pre-installed Security app that automatically scans the device for junk files.
To start the procedure, you need to open the application and click on a large Cleanup button, the system will analyze and suggest that you delete files that do not affect the operation of the device, usually remnants of remote programs, temporary installation files and old error logs.
- 🧹 Click the Clean button to remove the debris found.
- ⚙️ Go to the Memory section for a more detailed analysis of the space.
- 📱 Select specific file categories for selective cleaning.
It's important to note that standard cleaning doesn't always remove the cache of heavy applications completely, it's more like removing surface debris. To clean it up more deeply, you'll need to go into the settings of each application separately, which will be discussed in the next section.
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Run a standard cleaning once a week to keep the system on track, which takes less than a minute, but prevents a critical mass of temporary files from accumulating.
Removing the cache of individual applications through settings
If a particular program is not working properly or takes up too much space, manually clear the cache, a technique that allows you to pinpoint the problem areas without affecting the data of other applications.
To do this, go to the Settings menu, then select the App and All Apps. In the list that opens, find the program you want (like YouTube or Instagram). Inside the app menu, you will see the Clean button or the Warehouse button, where two options are available.
Settings → Applications → All Apps → [Select App] → Clean → Clear the cacheWhen you select Clear Cache, you delete only temporary files. If you choose Clear Data, the app will reset to factory status: you will crash your account, game saves and user settings will disappear.
☑️ Check before data clearing
Using the Recovery Menu to Clean the System
The most radical and effective method is to clear the cache through the Recovery menu, which removes temporary system partition files that cannot be removed through the normal interface, which often helps after a firmware update or if Android malfunctions.
To get into the recovery menu, you need to turn off your smartphone completely. Then press the Volume Up button and the Power button at the same time. Hold them until the Mi logo appears, then release the power button, continuing to keep the volume.
⚠️ Attention: In the Recovery menu, the navigation is done with volume buttons (up/down), and the choice is confirmed by the power button. Do not confuse the menu items so that you do not accidentally reset the device to the factory settings (Wipe Data).
In the menu that opens (usually in English), select Wipe Cache. The system will warn you of the consequences. Confirm the action by selecting Yes or Confirm. The process will take a few seconds, after which you can select Reboot to reboot.
What to do if the Recovery menu is in Chinese?
Comparison of cleaning methods and their impact on data
Different cleaning methods have different levels of impact on the system and user data, and understanding these differences will help avoid losing important information.
| Cleaning method | Delete personal photos/contacts | Requires a reboot. | Security |
|---|---|---|---|
| Security Annex | No. | No. | Tall. |
| Application settings | No (only cache) | No. | Tall. |
| Recovery Menu (Wipe Cache) | No. | Yes (automatically) | Medium |
| Reset to factory (Wipe Data) | Yes (total removal) | Yes. | Low (for data) |
As you can see from the table, standard methods are the safest for everyday use. Recovery menus should only be used if there are obvious performance problems. Wipe Data is only used in extreme cases or before selling a device.
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Never choose Wipe Data/Factory Reset if your goal is to make room.This action will completely destroy all information on the phone.
Automation and third-party utilities
For users who want to control the cleaning process without constant manual intervention, there are automation tools available; you can schedule garbage cleaning in MIUI settings; and there are third-party applications like SD Maid or Files by Google that often run deeper than standard tools.
However, installing additional "cliners" on Xiaomi is often redundant. Android version 10 and above, as well as the MIUI 12/13/14 shell, have built-in memory management mechanisms. Third-party programs can, on the contrary, drain the battery, constantly working in the background.
The best strategy is to use built-in tools in conjunction with manual control of heavy applications. Check the Storage section in settings regularly to see which programs take up the most space.
- 📉 Use the built-in storage analyzer to find large files.
- 🚫 Avoid installing aggressive antiviruses with the "acceleration" function".
- 🔄 Update apps regularly through Google Play as newer versions better manage cache.