Is it safe to delete Shared app and system caches?
Caches that apps and macOS services keep for every user of this Mac, in the Library folder at the top of your disk.
Usually safe
It can be recreated, but it takes a download, a reinstall or the tool's own command.
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What it is
Some apps, helper tools and macOS services store cached data in /Library/Caches instead of your own Library folder, so it's shared by every user account. Like other caches, it can be regenerated as needed. Most items here belong to the system or an administrator, so removing them needs an administrator password, and a service that's using its cache may only rebuild it after a restart.
If it's removed
Apps and system services rebuild their caches, so some tasks are slower at first. Restarting your Mac afterward lets system services start with fresh caches.
How it's removed
Moved to the Trash, where you can restore it.
The free analyzer finds it and explains it. Removing it is Pro, after a review sheet that lists every move and command. It's never checked for you: it waits for your choice.
Sources
- developer.apple.com/library/archive/documentation/FileManagement/Conceptual/FileSystemProgrammingGuide/MacOSXDirectories/MacOSXDirectories.html
- support.apple.com/en-us/102624
Last checked on 26 Sep 2026. Every entry is written and checked by hand; the app and the command-line tool use the same words.