Best Xcode Cache Cleaner for Mac
Last updated: 2026-06-05
Quick answer
The best Xcode cache cleaner shows DerivedData per-project sizes, handles simulators safely, and never touches source code. Manual rm -rf works but lacks visibility. CodeCleaner scans and lets you select what to remove.
Native macOS app. No account required. Local scan. You review before cleanup.
Xcode caches are the largest hidden disk use for many Mac developers. The best cleaner understands DerivedData, CoreSimulator, Archives, and SPM — not just generic folders.
Manual cleanup: rm -rf DerivedData
Free and effective for a full reset. Downside: no per-project visibility, easy to delete everything when selective cleanup would suffice.
Generic disk explorers
Tools like DaisyDisk show folder sizes but do not guide which Xcode folders are safe to delete or provide one-click selective cleanup for developer caches.
CodeCleaner for Xcode
Scans DerivedData, simulators, archives, DeviceSupport, and SPM. Shows per-project sizes. Scan first, review before deleting.
Manual steps (Terminal)
Run these commands in Terminal first. Scan first, review before deleting — or use CodeCleaner for a visual interface with per-item size breakdowns.
Check size
du -sh ~/Library/Developer/Xcode/DerivedDataDelete all DerivedData
rm -rf ~/Library/Developer/Xcode/DerivedDataComparison
| Feature | CodeCleaner | Generic disk tools | Manual terminal |
|---|---|---|---|
| DerivedData per-project sizes | Yes | Folder size only | du per subfolder |
| Simulator runtime guidance | Shows sizes, selective delete | Manual exploration | xcrun simctl commands |
| Source code safety | Whitelist — source never targeted | N/A | Your responsibility |
Or use CodeCleaner
CodeCleaner automates this with a native macOS app. Scan first, review before deleting. Free scan, no account required.
Native macOS app. No account required. Local scan. You review before cleanup.
Frequently asked questions
- Should I use rm -rf or a dedicated cleaner?
- rm -rf is fine for a full reset. A dedicated cleaner helps when you want per-project selection and simulator visibility without memorizing paths.
Why developers trust CodeCleaner
- Source code is never targeted
- Only known cache and build artifact paths
- Docker cleanup through official Docker CLI
- Local-only processing — no cloud upload
- No account required
- Free scan before paying for cleanup
Native macOS app. No account required. Local scan. You review before cleanup.