How to Clear the Cache on a Roku

Unplug it, restart it, or use the remote control–clearing the cache can fix a number of issues

By
Jon Martindale
Jon Martindale
Writer
    Jon Martindale has been a feature tech writer for more than 10 years. He's written for publications such as Digital Trends, KitGuru, and ITProPortal.
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    Published on May 21, 2024

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    What to Know

    • In Settings > System, select System Restart to restart the stick/TV and clear the cache.
    • There's also a quick remote control shortcut you can try.
    • You can also unplug the Roku and leave it off for 30 seconds.

    This guide will explain how to clear the cache on your Roku device. Instructions apply to all Roku devices, including TVs.

    How to Clear a Roku's Cache With a System Restart

    The easiest way to clear the Roku's cache is to use its built-in System Restart command.

    1. Turn on your Roku stick or Roku TV and wait for it to reach the home screen.

    2. Select Settings from the menu.

    3. Select System.

    4. Select System restart.

    5. Wait for your Roku to restart. The cache should now be clear.

    How to Clear Roku Cache With the Remote

    Roku TV and Roku streaming sticks also have a remote control command you can use to quickly clear the cache and restart the device.

    1. Turn on the Roku stick or Roku TV and grab the remote control.

    2. Make sure that the Home icon is highlighted.

    3. Press the Home button on the remote control five times.

    4. Press the Up arrow on the remote control once.

    5. Press the Rewind button on the remote twice.

    6. Press the Fast Forward button on the remote twice.

    7. Your Roku will then shuffle through the menu for a second before pausing and restarting. Wait for it to restart and your Roku's cache should be clear.

    Roku

    How to Clear the Cache in a Roku With a Power Cycle

    If you find that the above methods haven't helped or you want a more straightforward way to clear the cache, you can always just turn your Roku off and on again.

    Unplug the Roku stick from its ports, including the HDMI and USB connector. Alternatively, unplug the TV's power cord from the wall socket or power gang. Then, wait 30 seconds before plugging them back in again.

    Turn your Roku stick or Roku TV back on, and the cache should be clear. Hopefully, the device will operate better again.

    Looking for more Roku tips and fixes? Here's how to fix it when Roku TV won't turn on, and here's our guide on what to do if Roku won't connect to the internet.

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