Developer Tools

Clear iTerm2 Cache on Mac

Clearing the iTerm2 cache reclaims space and resolves session issues without removing your profiles. The app stores temporary data separately from your configuration, allowing safe cleanup of restored states.

Last updated: November 1, 20262 min read

Clear the iTerm2 cache without guessing

iTerm2 data usually takes 100 MB – 2 GB on a Mac. The free scan shows the exact size on your Mac before you change anything.

Scan your Mac free

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

Application: iTerm2
Typical data size: 100 MB – 2 GB
Category: Developer Tools
File Location: ~/Library/Application Support/iTerm2

iTerm2 cache folders you can clear

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

~/Library/Saved Application State/com.googlecode.iterm2.savedState Window state · restorable windows and scrollback from the last session Yes, rebuilt automatically~/Library/Application Support/iTerm2/SavedState Window state · restored sessions and their scrollback Yes, rebuilt automatically~/Library/Caches/com.googlecode.iterm2 Cache · app and update cache Yes, rebuilt automatically

Locations are the standard macOS folders iTerm2 uses; some appear only after you use the matching feature.

iTerm2 cache contents and symptoms

Specific to iTerm2

The app keeps restored windows and scrollback in specific state folders that can grow large. You should clear these if windows reopen with stale sessions or if the state folder consumes excessive space. Your profiles and settings remain untouched because they reside in a separate preferences file. Only the temporary session data is affected by this cleanup.

iTerm2 cache clearing outcomes

After clearing, the app rebuilds the necessary cache automatically upon the next launch. You will not need to sign in again or reconfigure your settings. The first startup might feel different as the app restores the default state. Your custom profiles and key mappings stay exactly as you left them.

Quit the app completely before removing any cache files.Empty the Trash to permanently reclaim the disk space.Launch the app to allow cache regeneration to complete.

0 of 3 done

Try it without risk

Download and scan for freeSee every iTerm2 file and its size. No account needed.
Clean free for 7 daysStart the 7-day free trial of the yearly plan inside the app.
Keep it or cancelCancel in your App Store settings at least 24 hours before the trial ends and you won't be charged.

Download free and scan

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 my custom color schemes be deleted?

No, your color schemes are stored in the preferences file, which remains intact.

Does this remove my saved window arrangements?

No, saved arrangements are kept in Application Support and are not part of the cache.