CloudKit User Caches

What is CloudKit User Caches?

CloudKit User Caches is a macOS cache folder used by CloudKit, Apple’s framework for storing and syncing app data through iCloud. Apps that use CloudKit can create temporary local data here to speed up record access, reduce repeated downloads, and support smoother sync activity between your Mac and iCloud. You may encounter this folder when reviewing storage usage or cleaning cache files in your user Library. The contents are not your original documents, but cached copies and temporary sync-related data that can be recreated as apps connect to iCloud again. Because this folder supports cloud-backed app activity, removing it may cause temporary re-downloading, reindexing, or slower sync performance until the cache is rebuilt.

Safety overview

Status: Mostly safe

This folder contains cache data, so it is generally less critical than documents or application support data. However, it is tied to CloudKit and iCloud-based syncing used by Apple services and third-party apps, so deleting it can temporarily interrupt sync efficiency and trigger extra network activity while the cache is rebuilt. If you use iCloud-enabled apps regularly, remove it only when troubleshooting sync or reclaiming space, and expect the folder to return.

Recommendation: Keep this folder if you use iCloud features or CloudKit-based apps on your Mac and everything is working normally. If you need to free a small amount of space or troubleshoot cloud sync behavior, you can remove its contents while the related apps are closed, then allow time for iCloud data to refresh. If sync problems continue after it rebuilds, investigate the specific app or iCloud account instead of repeatedly deleting the cache.

File path

• ~/Library/Caches/CloudKit

Related apps

• iCloud

Related processes

• cloudd
• bird

Related can I delete pages

• ~/Library/Caches/com.apple.bird

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