Is Skype Cache Safe to Delete?
Yes. Skype's Cache_Data folder is temporary Electron cache.
Side effects: Skype may load slower on next launch while it rebuilds cache.
What is ~/Library/Application Support/Microsoft/Skype for Desktop/Cache/Cache_Data?
Skype for Desktop is an Electron app. Its Cache/Cache_Data folder stores temporary web resources and thumbnails. Your messages and contacts are stored elsewhere. Safe to delete.
Is it safe to delete?
Yes — ~/Library/Application Support/Microsoft/Skype for Desktop/Cache/Cache_Data is generally safe to delete. The data in this folder is temporary and will be recreated by the application when needed.
Before deleting, make sure:
- You don't have any important unsaved work in the related application
- You're not in the middle of a critical task that might need this cached data
- You understand that initial load times may be slower after deletion
What happens after deletion?
Skype may load slower on next launch while it rebuilds cache. The folder will be recreated automatically by the application when needed. This process is typically seamless but may take some time depending on the amount of data that needs to be regenerated.
How to delete it
Use MacMop
MacMop finds this folder automatically and lets you delete it safely with one click.
Download MacMopTerminal
rm -rf ~/Library/Application Support/Microsoft/Skype for Desktop/Cache/Cache_DataWarning: This command permanently deletes the folder. Double-check the path before running.
Finder
- Open Finder
- Press ⌘ + Shift + G (Go to Folder)
- Paste:
~/Library/Application Support/Microsoft/Skype for Desktop/Cache/Cache_Data - Move the folder to Trash
MacMop scans all your hidden caches and tells you exactly what's safe to delete.
Download MacMop Free