Office Settings & Configuration

How to Safely Clear the Microsoft OfficeFileCache Folder

Nimra Malik Oct 9, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user needs to safely clear the Microsoft OfficeFileCache folder to free up storage space without causing document synchronization issues.

How to Safely Clear the Microsoft OfficeFileCache Folder

Product: Microsoft Office
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Managing disk space when the OfficeFileCache folder grows significantly due to caching files from SharePoint or OneDrive.
Observed behavior: The user wants to securely delete cached files using built-in application settings rather than risking data corruption by manually deleting the cache folder in File Explorer.

Before you start

Ensure all your Microsoft Office applications are closed and that your recent documents have successfully finished syncing to OneDrive or SharePoint before attempting to clear the cache.

Solution 1Recommended

Clear Cache Using Built-in Office Application Settings

The safest method to clear the OfficeFileCache is through the built-in cache management controls available within your Office applications.

Using the built-in controls ensures that Microsoft Office safely removes temporary files without disrupting the synchronization of documents linked to SharePoint or OneDrive.

Open an Office Application

Launch a Microsoft Office application, such as Word, Excel, or PowerPoint.

Navigate to Options

Click on 'File' in the top left corner, then select 'Options' located at the bottom of the left-hand menu.

Access Cache Settings

In the Options dialog box, click on the 'Save' tab in the left pane, then scroll down to find the 'Cache Settings' section.

Delete Cached Files

Click the 'Delete cached files' button. Confirm the action when prompted to safely remove the cached data.

Clear Cache Using Built-in Office Application Settings

Manual Deletion Warning: Avoid manually deleting files directly from the OfficeFileCache folder via File Explorer, as this can corrupt your document cache and cause syncing errors with cloud services.

Solution 2

Use Microsoft's Official Cache-Removal Guidance

If using the built-in settings does not decrease the amount of used space, follow Microsoft's advanced cache-removal procedures.

Free Microsoft Office alternative

Try WPS Office for a Lightweight and Fast Experience

If Microsoft Office is consuming too much disk space or system resources due to bloated cache folders, consider switching to WPS Office. It is a highly compatible, fast, and free alternative that keeps your system running smoothly.

1. Download and Install: Visit the official WPS website to download the free, lightweight installer and set it up in seconds.
2. Open Your Files: Simply double-click your existing Word, Excel, or PowerPoint files to open them instantly in WPS Office.
3. Edit and Save: Enjoy smooth editing without heavy background caching, and save directly in standard Microsoft Office formats.

Lightweight installation takes up significantly less disk space and prevents massive cache buildups.Fully compatible with Microsoft Office formats, including .docx, .xlsx, and .pptx.Free to use with a familiar, easy-to-navigate tabbed interface.Seamless migration allows you to continue working on your cloud documents without hassle.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my OfficeFileCache folder so large?

The OfficeFileCache folder stores local copies of files you have opened from SharePoint Online or OneDrive. This is designed to improve file load times and allow offline editing, but frequent use of large cloud documents will cause this folder to grow significantly.

Can I manually delete the OfficeFileCache folder in File Explorer?

No, it is highly recommended not to manually delete the OfficeFileCache folder or its contents. Doing so bypasses the application's file management system, which can corrupt your document cache and cause ongoing synchronization issues with OneDrive and SharePoint.

What should I do if 'Delete cached files' doesn't free up space?

If the built-in option doesn't reduce the folder size, ensure all Office applications and background sync processes are completely closed. If the issue persists, you may need to consult Microsoft's official support documentation for advanced cache-removal tools.

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