User Caches

What is User Caches?

~/Library/Caches/CloudKit is a user cache folder for Apple's CloudKit technology. CloudKit is the iCloud data-sync framework that apps use to store and update structured app data across devices and the web. This cache can hold temporary local data created while apps read, write, or sync CloudKit content through your Apple account. Mac users may encounter this folder when reviewing storage use, troubleshooting sync behavior, or cleaning temporary files in their Library folder. The contents are not the primary copy of your documents or app databases, but removing them can force apps and services that rely on CloudKit to rebuild local cached data the next time they connect and sync.

Safety overview

Status: Mostly safe

This folder is associated with Apple's CloudKit syncing system, which is used by apps that store data in iCloud containers. Cache contents are temporary, but they may support faster sync activity and offline access to recently used cloud data. Deleting the folder can sign you out of nothing, but it may trigger extra network activity, temporary resync delays, or re-downloading of cloud-backed app data. Do not remove it as part of startup or system cleanup automation while apps are actively syncing.

Recommendation: Keep this folder if you use apps that sync through iCloud and everything is working normally. If you are freeing space or troubleshooting stuck CloudKit syncing, you can remove its contents after quitting affected apps, then reopen them and allow time for caches to rebuild. If the folder quickly grows again, focus on the app that is actively syncing rather than repeatedly deleting the cache.

File path

• ~/Library/Caches/CloudKit

Related apps

• iCloud Drive

Related processes

• cloudd
• bird

Related can I delete pages

• ~/Library/Caches/com.apple.bird

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