Developer IDEs

Clear BBEdit Cache on Mac

You can clear the BBEdit cache to reclaim disk space or resolve glitches. The app's typical data footprint ranges from 200 MB – 5 GB, but the cache itself is separate from your customizations and settings. Clearing it does not remove your clippings, scripts, or preferences.

Last updated: November 1, 20262 min read

Clear the BBEdit cache without guessing

BBEdit data usually takes 200 MB – 5 GB on a Mac. The free scan shows the exact size on your Mac before you change anything.

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Free scan · No account · Nothing is deleted without your OK · Moves to the Trash first · macOS 14+

Application: BBEdit
Typical data size: 200 MB – 5 GB
Category: Developer IDEs
File Location: ~/Library/Application Support/BBEdit

BBEdit cache folders you can clear

These folders are rebuilt automatically, so removing them does not touch your own files.

~/Library/Caches/com.barebones.bbedit Cache · app cache Yes, rebuilt automatically~/Library/Saved Application State/com.barebones.bbedit.savedState Window state · window positions from the last session Yes, rebuilt automatically

Locations are the standard macOS folders BBEdit uses; some appear only after you use the matching feature.

What the BBEdit cache holds

Specific to BBEdit

The cache stores temporary data that the app rebuilds automatically. It is distinct from the Application Support folder, which holds your clippings, scripts, and text factories. Clearing this cache helps if you experience performance issues or need space. Your preferences and saved backups remain untouched. The app keeps working in free mode after evaluation, regardless of cache status.

What happens after clearing BBEdit cache

The app regenerates the cache files on the next launch. You might notice a slightly slower initial startup while this occurs. Your window positions are restored from the saved state, not the cache. You do not need to sign in again or reset preferences. Customizations like language modules remain intact in their support folder.

Quit the app completely before removing cache files.Confirm your clippings and scripts remain in Application Support.Launch the app to allow automatic cache regeneration.Empty the Trash only after verifying everything works.

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After the free trial, Pro costs $39.99 per year in your country's App Store; cancel any time.

Frequently asked questions

Yes. Folders marked “Yes, rebuilt automatically” are rebuilt automatically; removing them only makes the next start slower.

Will clearing the cache reset my keyboard shortcuts?

No, your keyboard shortcuts are stored in the preferences file, not the cache.

Does clearing the cache delete my saved file backups?

No, backups are stored in the Documents folder and remain unchanged.