Cache Cleanup on Xiaomi: Where to Find and How to Delete Unnecessary Data

Xiaomi's cache is a temporary file that creates fast-paced applications that accumulate over time, take up precious space in memory, and can slow down the device. But where exactly to look for this data and how to safely delete it so as not to harm the system? In this article, we'll look at all the possible ways to clean the cache, from standard MIUI tools to hidden features for power users.

It's important to understand that there are two types of cache: app cache (accelerates the launch of programs) and Dalvik cache (system files for Android optimization). Cleaning the first type is usually safe, and with the second one you need to be careful - removing it can lead to temporary lags after a reboot, we will show you how to work with both types without risking the stability of the phone.

If your Redmi Note 12 or POCO X5 is slowing down and the memory is full of unknown things, this guide will help to return the device to performance. All methods are tested on the latest versions of MIUI 14/15 and are relevant for models from Xiaomi Mi 11 to the budget Redmi A2.

1. Standard cache cleaning through MIUI settings

The easiest way is to use the built-in tools, which is for beginners and doesn't require superuser rights.

1. Open Settings → Memory (or Storage on some firmware).
2. Slip on the item Clean at the bottom of the screen.
3. Select Cache Data and confirm the action.

The system will show how much space will be freed up. Usually it is from 500 MB to 2-3 GB, depending on the number of applications installed. On models with a Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip (for example, Xiaomi 13 Pro), the cache can take up to 5 GB due to the optimization of gaming applications.

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After clearing the cache through the settings, restart the phone – this will speed up the re-creation of temporary files for frequently used applications.

• ✅ Quickly and without risk to the system
• ✅ No need for additional programs
• ⚠️ Deletes only app cache without affecting Dalvik
• ⚠️ Does not clear the cache of system services (e.g. com.miui.home)

2. Manual cache removal for individual applications

If you only need to clear the cache for specific programs (for example, TikTok or YouTube take up too much space), use this method:

1. Go to Settings → Applications → Application Management.
2. Select the appropriate app (such as Facebook).
3. Slip the vault. → Clear the cache.

For some applications (such as Google Play Services), the cache clearing button may not be active, which is normal – system services block manual deletion of temporary files.

Close the application through the latest task menu

Check if it is used in the background.

Make a backup of important data (for messengers)

Do not clear the cache of system applications named com.miui.

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On some firmware (e.g. MIUI Global), after cleaning the cache, the application may temporarily run slower, which is normal.

3. Clearing Dalvik cache via Recovery Mode

For power users who want to optimize the system deeply, there is a method to clean the Dalvik cache through recovery mode, which helps when the phone starts to brake after the MIUI update.

Warning: Don't confuse Dalvik cache with the regular app cache. The former is responsible for speeding up Java code execution in Android, and deleting it will cause the system to recompile all applications the next time it runs. This can take 5-15 minutes.

1. Turn off the phone.
2. Press the Power button + Volume up until the Mi logo appears.
3. From the Recovery menu, select Wipe & Reset → Wipe Dalvik Cache.
4. Confirm the action and restart the device.

⚠️ Attention: On models with Dynamic RAM Expansion (e.g. Xiaomi) 12T) Cleaning the Dalvik cache may temporarily disable this feature until the next reboot.

• 🔧 Eliminates lags after updates MIUI
• 🔧 Helps with an error "The application does not respond"
• ⚠️ Requires a restart (the first launch will take longer)
• ⚠️ Not recommended for beginners

4.Use of cleaning applications (CCleaner, SD Maid)

Third-party utilities offer more flexible cleaning settings, but require caution.

• 🧹 CCleaner – simple interface, cleans cache and garbage
• 🧹 SD Maid – advanced features for experienced users
• 🧹 Files by Google – Built-in cleaning from Google
• 🚫 Avoid Clean Master and the like – they often show false threats

Example of working with SD Maid:

1. Install the app from Google Play.
2. Run the scan in the CorpseFinder section (search for the remaining files after deleting applications).
3. Select SystemCleanup to clean the cache.

⚠️ Note: Some "optimizers" (e.g., "optimizers, DU Speed Booster can delete important system files on Xiaomi, which will lead to malfunctions MIUI. Use only proven utilities.

On models with MIUI 14+, built-in memory optimization has become more efficient, so third-party cleaners often do not give a noticeable increase in performance.

Built-in tools MIUI|CCleaner|SD Maid|Files by Google|I'm not clearing the cache.|Other-->

5. Hidden methods: ADB and engineering menu

For advanced users who want to have full control of the process, there are hidden commands, and one way is to use ADB (Android Debug Bridge).

First, turn on USB debugging:

1. Settings → About the phone → 7 times tap on the MIUI version.
2. Back to Settings → Additionally. → For developers.
3. Activate Debugging on USB.

Now connect your phone to your PC and execute the command:

adb shell pm trim-caches 1000000000

This command will clear the cache of all apps that takes up more than 1 GB. To clear the cache of a particular app (e.g. Facebook):

adb shell pm clear com.facebook.katana

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ADB commands allow you to clear the cache of system applications that are not available through standard MIUI settings.

Another hidden method is the engineering menu.

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Go to Storage and select Clear cache. Be careful, you can accidentally reset other settings here.

6. Automatic cleaning: setting up MIUI Optimized

MIUI 13/14/15 has an integrated automatic optimization feature that can clear the cache in the background to configure it:

1. Go to Settings → Special features → Memory optimization.
2. Turn on the Auto Clean option.
3. Choose frequency: Every day or when memory is low.

On models with UFS 3.1 (such as Xiaomi 13 Ultra), this feature works better due to the high read/write speed. On budget devices with eMMC (such as Redmi 10A), automatic cleaning can slightly slow down the system.

• ⏳ Saves time – no need to clean manually
• 🔄 Works in the background without user involvement
• ⚠️ Can remove cache too aggressively (for example, for gaming)
• ⚠️ On weak devices increases battery consumption

If you notice that applications are loading longer after you turn on automatic cleaning, turn off this feature and return to manual cleaning as needed.

7.What to do if the cache is not cleaned?

Sometimes users find that the cache clean button is inactive or the process is stalled.

If none of the methods worked, try resetting the app settings (not to be confused with a full phone reset!):

1. Go to Settings → Applications.
2. Select the problem app.
3. Slip the vault. → Reset the settings.

This will delete the cache and all application data (including logins), but save the program itself.

Frequently asked questions