clear all safari history

How to clear Safari browsing history on iPhone and iPad

Clear Safari browsing history on iPhone and iPad in a few simple steps

You'll definitely want to know how to clear Safari browsing history on iPhone and iPad . Know how to delete browsing history is part of basic user operation on all your devices, and is especially if you share devices with others. 

Luckily, deleting browsing history on Safari is easy and can be done in just a few taps, and is the same on iOS and iPadOS, so whether you're using an iPhone 15 Pro or an iPad Air , these steps will apply.

Remember, though, that deleting your browsing history only stops your activity being visible on that device. Your Internet Service Provider (ISP) will still be able to see the webpages you have visited. If you want to stop that, for ultimate privacy, you'll need to use one of the best VPN services .

The following screenshots were taken on an iPhone running iOS 17 . If you aren't running the latest version of your device's OS, we can show you how to update an iPhone or how to update an iPad .

• In Safari, tap the book icon
• Go to the history tab (clock)
• Select how far back to clear

Read on to see full illustrated instructions.

1. In Safari, tap the book icon

Firstly, open Safari and tap the book icon in the bottom bar.

2. Select the history tab (clock icon) and tap Clear

Now select the history tab (clock icon) and tap Clear at the bottom.

3. Select how far back to clear and tap Delete

Now choose how far back you'd like to delete : last hour, today, today and yesterday, or all time.

If you like, you can toggle on Close All Tabs , which will close every open tab that isn't in a tab group (we can show you how to use tab groups if you aren't sure).

Finally, when you're happy, hit Delete .

As you can see in the screenshot above, if you now go back to the history tab, your history will have been deleted.

For more iPhone tutorials, check out our guides on how to transfer data from iPhone to iPhone , how to clear RAM on iPhone , how to delete multiple contacts on iPhone and how to rearrange the iOS 17 Messages '+' menu .

Sign up to get the BEST of Tom’s Guide direct to your inbox.

Upgrade your life with a daily dose of the biggest tech news, lifestyle hacks and our curated analysis. Be the first to know about cutting-edge gadgets and the hottest deals.

Peter is Reviews Editor at Tom's Guide. As a writer, he covers topics including tech, photography, gaming, hardware, motoring and food & drink. Outside of work, he's an avid photographer, specialising in architectural and portrait photography. When he's not snapping away on his beloved Fujifilm camera, he can usually be found telling everyone about his greyhounds, riding his motorcycle, squeezing as many FPS as possible out of PC games, and perfecting his espresso shots. 

iPhone 16 — 7 biggest rumored upgrades

iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro colors — here's what we could get

I’m sick of cheap phones that do this — it’s a total waste

Most Popular

• 2 I've been sleeping on an adjustable pillow for a month — here are 3 things to know before buying
• 3 I ditched Spotify for Apple Music for working out — here’s what happened
• 4 The one thing you need to do to prepare your grill for summer, according to experts
• 5 This 8-move mobility routine boosts hip mobility and reduces stiffness in just 16 minutes

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience.

How to clear browsing history on Safari on iPhone or Mac

You can clear your Safari browsing history on both iOS and Mac

As tracking goes, Safari keeping your browsing history is less about privacy-busting security and more about just being useful. It's your history that means Safari remembers where to go to when you choose forward and back within a site, for instance.

It's also how Safari is able to offer you a list of sites that you regularly go to, on account of how handy it is to be able to back to them with a click. History also does keep things you may not expect, though, such as a list of items you've downloaded.

If you don't want that, though, or you're just fed up of Safari going to site addresses you haven't looked at in years, you can wipe the whole browsing history.

On a Mac, you can also wipe, for instance, just the last hour's browsing history. So if you share Safari and it's someone's special birthday coming up, you can avoid them inadvertently finding out you plan to surprise them with dance lessons.

How to clear search history on Safari on Mac

• In Safari, choose the History menu
• Select Clear History from the very bottom of the menu
• In the dialog box that appears, choose from clearing the last hour , today , today and yesterday , or all history
• Click on Clear History

Alternatively, within Safari you can press Command-Y and the current page will be replaced by a history list. There's a Clear History... button toward the top right.

Clicking on that gives you exactly the same dialog about choosing how far back you want to clear your browsing history. But this page does also give you one extra option — the ability to delete one specific item.

How to clear one item from Safari search history on Mac

• In Safari, press Command-Y
• From the long list, click once on a history item to select it
• Right-click to bring up a menu, then choose Delete

Alternatively, if you select one, two, or more items in the history list, you can then press the Delete key to remove them all.

That kind of precision removal is only possible on your Mac, not on iOS . However, whether it's precision or wholesale clearing of your history, though, there is a way to replicate it on iOS.

If you have set iCloud to share your Safari history, then just doing this on your Mac also removes the history from your iPhone, and iPad.

Otherwise, you're stuck with going to your iOS device. And then with clearing the entire history.

How to clear search history on iPhone

• Go to Settings on your iOS device
• Tap on Safari
• Scroll down to Clear History and Website Data
• Tap that, then tap Clear History and Data to confirm

One important thing to note is that you can't selectively remove, say, today's browsing history on the iPhone or iPad . It's all or nothing, with iOS.

What you leave behind

Clearing your history like this does remove the list of sites and pages you've visited. It does mean you can't go back to that site you read last Tuesday, not without remembering what it was and going there yourself.

What it doesn't remove, though, is the information that gets used by something like AutoFill. If you have your address, for instance, and you're used to online forms being filled out with it, you've still got that feature.

You've also still got anything you downloaded. It's purely that Safari won't keep the list of downloads.

Keep up with AppleInsider by downloading the AppleInsider app for iOS, and follow us on YouTube , Twitter @appleinsider and Facebook for live, late-breaking coverage. You can also check out our official Instagram account for exclusive photos.

Sponsored Content

Clean junk files from your Mac with Intego Washing Machine X9

Top stories.

Apple's iOS 18 AI will be on-device preserving privacy, and not server-side

How iOS Web Distribution works in the EU in iOS 17.5

iPhone 16 Pro 256GB rumor makes sense, but is by a known falsifier

Apple is researching how to make the ultimate MagSafe wallet and iPhone carrying case

When to expect every Mac to get the AI-based M4 processor

Featured deals.

Lowest price: Apple's M3 MacBook Air 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD, 10C GPU drops to $1,349

Latest comparisons.

M3 15-inch MacBook Air vs M3 14-inch MacBook Pro — Ultimate buyer's guide

M3 MacBook Air vs M1 MacBook Air — Compared

M3 MacBook Air vs M2 MacBook Air — Compared

Latest news.

How to organize Safari tabs using tab groups in iPadOS 17

Safari tab groups have been in iPadOS for several years, and can really help you organize pages you've browsed. Here's how to use them in iPadOS 17.

Fear of Nintendo's wrath is keeping emulators off of the App Store

Despite Apple's recent rule change, it has been a bumpy few days for emulators on the App Store as small developers fear the wrath of Nintendo and others.

Jerusalem Flag autoprediction bug is fixed in iOS 17.5 developer beta

Apple's second iOS 17.5 developer beta has fixed a bug that showed the Palestinian flag in the predictive text system when users typed in "Jerusalem."

Apple rolls out second beta round, including EU Web Distribution in iOS 17.5

Apple has shifted onto the second round of developer betas, with the latest iteration of iOS 17.5 including Apple's Web Distribution system.

Second developer beta of visionOS 1.2 has arrived

Owners of the Apple Vision Pro can now test out the second developer build of the visionOS 1.2 operating system.

The new iOS 17.5 beta introduces app sideloading from websites in the EU and Apple has announced both what eligible developers have to do, and what users can expect to see.

Apple will reportedly update its entire Mac line to the M4 processor, beginning in late 2024 and concluding with the Mac Pro in the second half of 2025.

Future Apple Vision Pro could help the user get life-saving medical advice

Apple is developing technology for wearable devices like Apple Vision Pro that measure and monitor biometric data and location to provide tailored and potentially lifesaving advice.

Latest Videos

The best game controllers for iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple TV

How to get the best video capture possible on iPhone 15 Pro with ProRes

Latest reviews.

Ugreen DXP8800 Plus network attached storage review: Good hardware, beta software

Espresso 17 Pro review: Magnetic & modular portable Mac monitor

Journey Loc8 MagSafe Finder Wallet review: an all-in-one Find My wallet

{{ title }}

{{ summary }}

How to Clear Safari's Browsing History on an iPhone or Mac

Browsing data reveals your browsing habits, and can be accessed by sites you visit. If you're concerned about your privacy, you can manage and delete your browsing history.

Navigating the digital world creates a footprint similar to how our steps leave marks in real life. These digital traces, from sites visited to search queries, can pose privacy risks. So, it's essential to know how to clear your browsing history.

Whether you aim to clear search history on your iPhone or Mac, delete history from a specific timeframe in Safari, or fully clear your browsing history, Apple offers streamlined solutions. Let's take a look.

How to Delete Your Safari Browsing History on an iPhone or iPad

If you're looking to clear Safari's browsing history from within the Safari app on the iPhone or iPad, you're looking in the wrong place. Apple puts such options in the Settings app, and this is how to find them:

• Open the Settings app. Then, scroll down and tap on Safari .
• Scroll down to the Privacy & Security section and tap Clear History and Website Data .
• When a sub-window pops up, choose a timeframe and tap Clear History .

If you find yourself needing to delete your history in short timeframes, consider using private browsing (or incognito mode) in Safari instead of heading to the Settings app to do this often.

How to Clear Your Browsing History in Safari on a Mac

Unlike on an iPhone or iPad, you'll find all you need to clear Safari's history within the app. There's no need to open System Settings. Here's how to do it:

• Launch Safari using Spotlight search ( Command + Space ) or any other desired method.

There are still a few other things you would have to do if you want to reset Safari to default settings . But this method is all you need to delete your Safari browsing history on a Mac.

Safari Keeps Your History Private

Do not be worried if you suspect Apple is selling your browsing data; that is far from the truth. Apple has built a reputation for prioritizing privacy and security and even goes the extra mile to protect you from advertisers and third parties.

In fact, Safari might be safer to use than Google Chrome since Google doesn't offer the same commitment to privacy as Safari does. Use Private Browsing if necessary or delete your history if you still want to keep it from prying eyes.

• a. Send us an email
• b. Anonymous form
• Buyer's Guide
• Upcoming Products
• Tips / Contact Us
• Podcast Instagram Facebook Twitter Mastodon YouTube Notifications RSS Newsletter

How to Clear Safari Browsing History and Cache

Whenever you browse the web in Safari, the browser stores website data so that it doesn't have to download it again each time you revisit a site. In theory this should speed up your browsing experience, but there are some scenarios where you might want to clear the cache and start anew. Keep reading to learn how it's done on Mac, iPhone , and iPad .

If a site you regularly frequent has elements that have stopped working, or if a site has stopped loading completely, there may be a conflict between an older version of it that Safari has cached and a newer one.

Or perhaps you simply want to protect your privacy by wiping the slate clean and removing all the data associated with websites you've visited. Either way, here's how it's done on macOS and iOS.

How to Clear Safari's Cache on Mac

There are two ways to clear Safari's cache on a Mac. The first method outlined below deletes everything relating to a website you've visited, including not only the cached versions of the site, but also cookies and any other related data. The second method described offers a more targeted approach and clears only Safari's cache, but it does involve enabling a hidden menu.

• Launch Safari browser on your Mac.

How to Clear Safari's Cache on iPhone and iPad

Note that the following steps clear all history, cookies and website data on your device, regardless of when the sites were accessed.

• Launch the Settings app on your iOS device.
• Scroll down and select Safari .
• Scroll down and select Clear History and Website Data .
• Choose the timeframe to clear ( Last hour , Today , Today and yesterday , or All history ), choose the profile or select All Profiles , then tap Clear History .

For another way to protect your privacy while browsing the web, be sure to check out our guide on how to use Safari's Private Browsing Mode .

Get weekly top MacRumors stories in your inbox.

Popular Stories

iOS 18 Will Add These New Features to Your iPhone

Game Boy Emulator for iPhone Now Available in App Store Following Rule Change [Removed]

Apple removes game boy emulator igba from app store due to spam and copyright violations, apple's first ai features in ios 18 reportedly won't use cloud servers.

Best Buy Opens Up Sitewide Sale With Record Low Prices on M3 MacBook Air, iPad, and Much More

M4 Macs Are Expected to Launch in This Order Starting Later This Year

NES Emulator for iPhone and iPad Now Available on App Store [Removed]

Top Stories: M4 Mac Roadmap Leaked, New iPads in Second Week of May, and More

Next article.

Our comprehensive guide highlighting every major new addition in iOS 17, plus how-tos that walk you through using the new features.

App Store changes for the EU, new emoji, Podcasts transcripts, and more.

Get the most out your iPhone 15 with our complete guide to all the new features.

A deep dive into new features in macOS Sonoma, big and small.

Revamped models with OLED displays, M3 chip, and redesigned Magic Keyboard accessory.

Updated 10.9-inch model and new 12.9-inch model, M2 chip expected.

Apple's annual Worldwide Developers Conference will kick off with a keynote on June 10.

Expected to see new AI-focused features and more. Preview coming at WWDC in June with public release in September.

Other Stories

11 hours ago by MacRumors Staff

2 days ago by MacRumors Staff

5 days ago by MacRumors Staff

5 days ago by Tim Hardwick

How to view and clear your web browsing history in Safari on iPhone or iPad

Easily wipe your browsing history in Apple's Safari web browser in seconds.

How to find your web-browsing history

How to clear your web browsing history.

Clearing your browsing history on iPhone and iPad in Safari has been a straightforward affair for years now.

Sometimes, you may want a fresh start with your web browsing — perhaps to get rid of some history that may bring up a memory you'd rather forget as you type in a website URL in the address bar.

Apple makes this feature very easy to access on both the iPhone and iPad by offering two ways to clear your history. So with this in mind, here's how you can do just that and make a fresh start in Safari .

Viewing your web history in iOS 17 and iPadOS 17 is very easy to do — and it's all done from Safari.

• In Safari, tap the Bookmarks button in the toolbar that's below the address bar.
• Tap the History icon in the upper right corner. Here, you can view your entire web history.

• Use the History search bar to find previously viewed pages.

If the time calls to wipe most or all of your web browsing history in Safari, here's how to do it on both iPhone and iPad.

To note, the below steps will be the same if you attempt to wipe your web browsing history on an iPhone 15 Pro Max , and an iPad Mini 6 for example.

• In Safari, tap the Bookmarks button.
• Select the History icon in the upper right corner.
• Tap Clear and select how much history you'd like to clear: the last hour, the last day, 48 hours' worth, or all recorded history.

One more thing… A feature no one talks about

Privacy on the web matters more than ever in these modern times. Websites store the pages you click on, especially when you sign into a page that can contain personal information about you.

Master your iPhone in minutes

iMore offers spot-on advice and guidance from our team of experts, with decades of Apple device experience to lean on. Learn more with iMore!

It's great to have a feature like this in Safari — but it would be good to have this automated. To tell Apple's web browser to automatically clear history after 24 hours would be very useful, as you wouldn't leave a trail behind.

Regardless, it's still a good feature, and one you should use every week.

Daryl is iMore's Features Editor, overseeing long-form and in-depth articles and op-eds. Daryl loves using his experience as both a journalist and Apple fan to tell stories about Apple's products and its community, from the apps we use everyday to the products that have been long forgotten in the Cupertino archives.

Previously Software & Downloads Writer at TechRadar, and Deputy Editor at StealthOptional, he's also written a book, ' The Making of Tomb Raider ', which tells the story of the beginnings of Lara Croft and the series' early development. He's also written for many other publications including WIRED, MacFormat, Bloody Disgusting, VGC, GamesRadar, Nintendo Life, VRV Blog, The Loop Magazine, SUPER JUMP, Gizmodo, Film Stories, TopTenReviews, Miketendo64 and Daily Star.

• Bryan M Wolfe Staff Writer

You can now play Game Boy games on your iPhone after Apple's App Store changes

Apple Pencil might one day work with iPhone — but new battery-free patent design might disappoint pen power users

2024 "might be a turning point for Apple" — suppliers look elsewhere as Apple faces "frightening" question with no clear answer

Most Popular

• 2 Apple insider predicts company's M4 Mac lineup, and the Ultra is back
• 3 Apple doubles down on 8GB Macs despite calls to increase the base spec ahead of M4 devices
• 4 Apple's iOS 17.4 browser choice is under fire, despite increased adoption of third-party alternatives
• 5 Google is about to give iPhone owners a privacy and security headache as it prepares to shut down another key service

Clear the history, cache and cookies from Safari on your iPhone, iPad or iPod touch

Find out how to delete your history, cookies and cache in Settings.

Delete your history, cache and cookies

Clear your cookies and the cache, but keep your history

Delete a website from your history, block cookies, use content blockers, delete history, cache and cookies.

Go to Settings > Safari.

Tap Clear History and Website Data.

Clearing your history, cookies and browsing data from Safari won't change your AutoFill information.

When there’s no history or website data to be cleared, the button to clear it will turn grey. The button may also be grey if you have web content restrictions set up under Content & Privacy Restrictions in Screen Time .

To visit sites without leaving history, turn Private Browsing on .

Go to Settings > Safari > Advanced > Website Data.

Tap Remove All Website Data.

When there’s no website data to be cleared, the button to clear it will turn grey. The button may also be grey if you have web content restrictions set up under Content & Privacy Restrictions in Screen Time .

Open the Safari app.

Tap the Edit button, then select the website(s) that you want to delete from your history.

Tap the Delete button.

A cookie is a piece of data that a site puts on your device so that site can remember you when you visit again.

To block cookies:

Go to Settings > Safari > Advanced.

Turn on Block All Cookies.

If you block cookies, some web pages may not work. Here are some examples:

You'll likely not be able to sign in to a site even when using your correct user name and password.

You may see a message that cookies are required or that your browser's cookies are turned off.

Some features on a site may not work.

Content blockers are third-party apps and extensions that let Safari block cookies, images, resources, pop-ups and other content.

To get a content blocker:

Download a content blocking app from the App Store.

Tap Settings > Safari > Extensions.

Tap to turn on a listed content blocker.

You can use more than one content blocker. If you need help, contact the app developer .

Information about products not manufactured by Apple, or independent websites not controlled or tested by Apple, is provided without recommendation or endorsement. Apple assumes no responsibility with regard to the selection, performance or use of third-party websites or products. Apple makes no representations regarding third-party website accuracy or reliability. Contact the vendor for additional information.

Related topics

Contact Apple Support

Need more help? Save time by starting your support request online and we'll connect you to an expert.

How To Delete All History On Safari

• Software & Applications
• Browsers & Extensions

Introduction

When it comes to browsing the web, Safari stands out as one of the most popular and user-friendly web browsers for Apple devices. Whether you're using Safari on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac, your browsing history can accumulate over time, revealing a trail of websites you've visited. While this history can be useful for quickly revisiting previously viewed sites, there are times when you might want to clear it for privacy or performance reasons.

Clearing your browsing history in Safari can help protect your privacy by removing any record of the websites you've visited. Additionally, it can free up storage space and potentially improve the browser's performance. Whether you're looking to erase a specific site from your history or wipe the slate clean entirely, Safari provides the tools to accomplish this task with ease.

In this guide, we'll walk you through the step-by-step process of deleting your browsing history on Safari. Whether you're using a Mac, iPhone, or iPad, the steps are relatively similar, making it convenient to manage your browsing history across different Apple devices. By the end of this tutorial, you'll have a clear understanding of how to effectively clear your browsing history and website data on Safari, ensuring a clean and private browsing experience. Let's dive in and explore the simple yet essential steps to achieve this.

Step 1: Open Safari

To begin the process of clearing your browsing history on Safari, you first need to open the Safari browser on your Apple device. Whether you're using a Mac, iPhone, or iPad, the steps to open Safari are straightforward and consistent across different devices.

If you're using a Mac, you can easily open Safari by clicking on the Safari icon located in the Dock at the bottom of the screen. Alternatively, you can access Safari from the Applications folder in Finder. Simply navigate to the Applications folder, locate the Safari icon, and double-click to launch the browser.

On iPhone or iPad:

For iPhone or iPad users, opening Safari is as simple as tapping on the Safari icon on your home screen. The Safari icon typically features a compass design and is easily recognizable among your other apps. Once you tap the Safari icon, the browser will launch, and you'll be ready to proceed with the next steps to clear your browsing history.

Upon opening Safari, you'll be greeted by the familiar interface, featuring the address bar, bookmarks, and tabs. With Safari now open on your device, you're ready to move on to the next step in the process of clearing your browsing history and website data.

Opening Safari is the initial step in the process of managing your browsing history, and it sets the stage for the subsequent actions you'll take to ensure a clean and private browsing experience. With Safari launched on your device, you're now prepared to access your browsing history and take the necessary steps to clear it, thereby safeguarding your privacy and optimizing your browsing experience.

Step 2: Access the History

Accessing your browsing history in Safari is a fundamental step in the process of managing and clearing your browsing data. Whether you're looking to revisit a previously viewed website or delete specific entries from your history, Safari provides a seamless way to access this information across different Apple devices.

To access your browsing history in Safari on a Mac, you can utilize the browser's intuitive interface. At the top of the Safari window, you'll find the address bar, which also serves as a gateway to your browsing history. Simply click on the address bar, and a dropdown menu will appear, displaying your frequently visited sites and the option to view your full browsing history.

By selecting "Show All History" from the dropdown menu, a new window will open, presenting a comprehensive view of your browsing history. Here, you can browse through your visited sites, organized by date, and easily locate specific entries that you may want to remove. This accessibility allows for efficient management of your browsing history, empowering you to take control of your online privacy.

For users of Safari on iPhone or iPad, accessing the browsing history is equally straightforward. Upon launching Safari on your iOS device, you can tap the address bar at the top of the screen. This action will reveal your frequently visited sites, along with the option to "Show All History" at the bottom of the list.

Tapping on "Show All History" will present you with a chronological list of the websites you've visited, allowing you to scroll through and locate specific entries. This user-friendly approach to accessing browsing history on iOS devices ensures that you can easily manage and clear your history whenever the need arises.

By accessing your browsing history in Safari, you gain visibility into the sites you've visited, empowering you to make informed decisions about managing this data. Whether you're looking to revisit a past site or remove specific entries, Safari's accessible history feature puts the control in your hands, enabling you to maintain a clean and private browsing experience across your Apple devices.

Step 3: Clear History and Website Data

Once you've accessed your browsing history in Safari, the next crucial step is to clear this data, ensuring that your online activities remain private and secure. Safari provides a straightforward method to accomplish this, allowing you to remove your browsing history and website data with ease.

To clear your browsing history and website data on a Mac, you can utilize the intuitive options within Safari. With the history window open, navigate to the top menu and click on "History." A dropdown menu will appear, presenting various options, including "Clear History." Clicking on "Clear History" will prompt a dialog box to appear, allowing you to select the time range for which you want to clear your history. You can choose to clear the history from the last hour, today, today and yesterday, or all history. Once you've made your selection, click "Clear History" to confirm the deletion. Additionally, Safari provides the option to clear website data, which includes cookies and cached files. To do this, navigate to "Safari" in the top menu, select "Preferences," go to the "Privacy" tab, and click on "Manage Website Data." Here, you can remove specific website data or choose to clear all data, further enhancing your privacy and security.

For users of Safari on iPhone or iPad, the process of clearing history and website data is equally straightforward. After accessing your browsing history, tap the "Clear" button at the bottom of the history list. A dialog box will appear, allowing you to confirm the deletion of your browsing history. Additionally, you can clear website data by going to "Settings" on your iOS device, scrolling down to find "Safari," and selecting "Clear History and Website Data." This action will remove your browsing history, cookies, and other site data, ensuring a clean slate for your browsing activities.

By clearing your browsing history and website data in Safari, you take proactive steps to safeguard your privacy and maintain a clutter-free browsing experience. Whether you're using a Mac, iPhone, or iPad, the process is designed to be user-friendly and effective, empowering you to manage your online activities with confidence. With your history and website data cleared, you can enjoy a renewed sense of privacy and security as you continue to explore the web using Safari.

Step 4: Confirm Deletion

After initiating the process of clearing your browsing history and website data in Safari, it's essential to confirm the deletion to ensure that your desired actions are carried out effectively. This final step provides a crucial opportunity to review and verify the deletion of your browsing history, reaffirming your commitment to maintaining a private and secure browsing experience.

On a Mac, upon selecting the option to clear your browsing history, a dialog box will appear, prompting you to confirm the deletion. Within this dialog box, you'll have the opportunity to select the time range for which you want to clear your history, such as the last hour, today, today and yesterday, or all history. This additional confirmation step allows you to tailor the deletion based on your specific preferences, providing flexibility and control over the process.

For iPhone or iPad users, tapping the "Clear" button at the bottom of the history list initiates the deletion process. A dialog box will then appear, prompting you to confirm the deletion of your browsing history. This simple yet essential confirmation step ensures that you have the opportunity to review and validate the deletion before it takes place, adding an extra layer of assurance to the process.

By confirming the deletion of your browsing history and website data, you actively participate in maintaining the privacy and security of your online activities. This deliberate confirmation step empowers you to take ownership of your browsing history management, allowing you to proceed with confidence, knowing that your desired actions have been successfully executed.

With the deletion confirmed, you can proceed with peace of mind, knowing that your browsing history and website data have been effectively cleared from Safari. This proactive approach to managing your online privacy and security reflects your commitment to maintaining a clean and private browsing experience across your Apple devices.

In conclusion, managing your browsing history and website data on Safari is a fundamental aspect of maintaining a private and secure browsing experience across your Apple devices. By following the simple yet essential steps outlined in this guide, you can effectively clear your browsing history, safeguard your privacy, and optimize the performance of the Safari browser.

Clearing your browsing history in Safari empowers you to take control of your online privacy, ensuring that your web activities remain confidential. Whether you're using a Mac, iPhone, or iPad, the consistent and user-friendly approach to accessing and clearing your browsing history reflects Apple's commitment to providing a seamless and secure browsing experience for its users.

Furthermore, the ability to clear website data, including cookies and cached files, enhances your privacy and security while using Safari. By removing this stored data, you can enjoy a clutter-free browsing experience and mitigate the risk of unauthorized tracking or data collection.

The confirmation step in the deletion process adds an extra layer of assurance, allowing you to review and validate the deletion of your browsing history and website data. This deliberate confirmation empowers you to make informed decisions about managing your online activities, reinforcing your commitment to maintaining a clean and private browsing experience.

Overall, the process of clearing your browsing history on Safari is designed to be intuitive, accessible, and effective. Whether you're looking to remove specific entries from your history or clear your entire browsing history, Safari provides the tools to accomplish this task with ease.

By taking proactive steps to manage your browsing history and website data, you contribute to a safer and more secure online environment for yourself. As you continue to explore the web using Safari, the peace of mind that comes with knowing your browsing history is cleared and your privacy is protected enhances your overall browsing experience.

In essence, by following the steps outlined in this guide, you can confidently navigate the online landscape, knowing that your browsing history and website data remain under your control, ensuring a private and secure browsing experience on Safari.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Crowdfunding
• Cryptocurrency
• Digital Banking
• Digital Payments
• Investments
• Console Gaming
• Mobile Gaming
• VR/AR Gaming
• Gadget Usage
• Gaming Tips
• Online Safety
• Software Tutorials
• Tech Setup & Troubleshooting
• Buyer’s Guides
• Comparative Analysis
• Gadget Reviews
• Service Reviews
• Software Reviews
• Mobile Devices
• PCs & Laptops
• Smart Home Gadgets
• Content Creation Tools
• Digital Photography
• Video & Music Streaming
• Online Security
• Online Services
• Web Hosting
• WiFi & Ethernet
• Browsers & Extensions
• Communication Platforms
• Operating Systems
• Productivity Tools
• AI & Machine Learning
• Cybersecurity
• Emerging Tech
• IoT & Smart Devices
• Virtual & Augmented Reality
• Latest News
• AI Developments
• Fintech Updates
• Gaming News
• New Product Launches

• AI Writing How Its Changing the Way We Create Content
• How to Find the Best Midjourney Alternative in 2024 A Guide to AI Anime Generators

Related Post

Ai writing: how it’s changing the way we create content, unleashing young geniuses: how lingokids makes learning a blast, 10 best ai math solvers for instant homework solutions, 10 best ai homework helper tools to get instant homework help, 10 best ai humanizers to humanize ai text with ease, sla network: benefits, advantages, satisfaction of both parties to the contract, related posts.

How To Look At Deleted Safari History

How To Delete Private Browsing History On Safari

How To Delete Recently Closed Tabs In Safari

How To Delete Safari History

How To Delete Download History On IPhone

How To Delete ICloud Safari History

How To Delete Safari History On IPhone

How To Delete Your Search History On Safari

Recent stories.

How to Find the Best Midjourney Alternative in 2024: A Guide to AI Anime Generators

How to Know When it’s the Right Time to Buy Bitcoin

How to Sell Counter-Strike 2 Skins Instantly? A Comprehensive Guide

10 Proven Ways For Online Gamers To Avoid Cyber Attacks And Scams

• Privacy Overview
• Strictly Necessary Cookies

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.

Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings.

If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.

Why Can’t I Clear My History on Safari? Solutions and Answers

• Safari allows you to clear your history for a certain length of time, or you can clear the whole thing.
• You may just need to restart your device to clear your history.
• Remember that the steps for iPhone and iPad will be roughly the same. 

If you’re having issues because you can’t clear your Safari history, know that a solution isn’t too far behind. I love using Safari for a great browsing experience, but I was recently unable to clear my history, which was giving me some problems. Fortunately, I discovered a solution to my problem. Let’s take a look at some troubleshooting steps and solutions. 

Why Is My Clear History Button Grey?

If your Clear History button is grey, the most likely reason is that you do not have any History to clear. However, you may also be experiencing a grey Clear History button due to certain Content & Privacy Restrictions within Screen Time being enabled. You can check on iPhone via Settings > Screen Time > Content & Privacy Restrictions > Allowed Apps and ensure that Safari is enabled. Note, however, that this will require your password.

On Mac, you can disable Screen Time via System Settings > Screen Time>  Content & Privacy > Content Restrictions . Ensure Access to Web Content is set to  Unrestricted.  Of course, if you didn’t set up Screen Time in the first place, this likely isn’t your issue. Keep reading for further solutions.

How Do I Clear My Safari History and Cache?

1. how to clear your safari browser history.

If you need to clear your Safari history, you can check out our full guide here . However, note that on iOS, clearing your history is as easy as going to Settings >  Safari > Clear History and Website Data . For Mac, all you need to do is open Safari and select History > Clear History from the menu bar. With both Mac and iOS you are able to choose how much of your history you delete based on time. 

2. Disable iCloud Sync for Safari

If you’re still having issues clearing your Safari browsing history, it may just be that you need to disable iCloud sync for Safari. This default option shares your history and your reading lists across all your Apple devices. It may be the case that some history or content did not sync properly. 

Disable iCloud Sync iOS

Time needed:  2 minutes

If you need to disable iCloud Sync on iOS, follow these steps.

Disable iCloud Sync macOS

• From the Apple Menu, go to System Settings .
• Select [Your Name] .

3. Reset Network Settings (iOS Only)

If you are still looking for an effective solution to your clear history issue, you may want to consider resetting your network settings. 

• Go to the Settings app. 

4. Delete History Manually (Mac Only)

If you need to clear your Safari history on Mac and are having problems, remember you can delete your history manually. 

• While holding down the Command key, select the following items: History.db , History.db-lock , History.db.shm and History.db.wal . 

• Empty your Trash. 

Why Can’t I Clear History in Safari?

The most likely reason that you’re unable to clear your Safari history is that there is no history left to clear. However, if you’re having issues, look at basic things, such as restarting your Apple device or ensuring that Screen Time restrictions are not preventing you from clearing your history. You may also want to consider that iCloud Sync may prevent you from properly clearing your history. 

Being able to clear your entire history from Safari is incredibly useful. However, it’s only useful if it’s working correctly. Fortunately, solutions for your history clearing problems are rather easy, so there’s little to worry about. Not clearing your history can be a common issue for many users. However, a comprehensive solution is available.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

• Nick deCourville

• PRO Courses Guides New Tech Help Pro Expert Videos About wikiHow Pro Upgrade Sign In
• EDIT Edit this Article
• EXPLORE Tech Help Pro About Us Random Article Quizzes Request a New Article Community Dashboard This Or That Game Popular Categories Arts and Entertainment Artwork Books Movies Computers and Electronics Computers Phone Skills Technology Hacks Health Men's Health Mental Health Women's Health Relationships Dating Love Relationship Issues Hobbies and Crafts Crafts Drawing Games Education & Communication Communication Skills Personal Development Studying Personal Care and Style Fashion Hair Care Personal Hygiene Youth Personal Care School Stuff Dating All Categories Arts and Entertainment Finance and Business Home and Garden Relationship Quizzes Cars & Other Vehicles Food and Entertaining Personal Care and Style Sports and Fitness Computers and Electronics Health Pets and Animals Travel Education & Communication Hobbies and Crafts Philosophy and Religion Work World Family Life Holidays and Traditions Relationships Youth
• Browse Articles
• Learn Something New
• Quizzes Hot
• This Or That Game New
• Train Your Brain
• Explore More
• Support wikiHow
• About wikiHow
• Log in / Sign up
• Computers and Electronics
• Internet Browsers
• Safari Browser

2 Easy Ways to Check Your Safari Search History

Last Updated: January 17, 2024 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by wikiHow staff writer, Rain Kengly . Rain Kengly is a wikiHow Technology Writer. As a storytelling enthusiast with a penchant for technology, they hope to create long-lasting connections with readers from all around the globe. Rain graduated from San Francisco State University with a BA in Cinema. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 154,863 times. Learn more...

Do you need to check your Safari browser history? In a few simple steps, you can easily view all the websites you accessed in the past. You can also search for specific websites in your history and clear any website data you don't want. This wikiHow will teach you how to view and delete your Safari history on iPhone, iPad, and macOS.

Things You Should Know

• On iPhone and iPad, you can click the book icon, then the clock icon to find your Safari history.
• On macOS, you can click the "History" tab, then "Show History".
• You can search for specific websites and clear your history data.

Using iPhone and iPad

• If needed, you can change your General Settings .

• If you're signed in with the same Apple ID to you use to log into your Mac, your Mac's Safari history will appear in this list as well.

• You may have to swipe down on the History page to find it.
• The results will load as you type.

• Tap a time period to delete the history from just that time period. To delete the entire log, select All time .
• You can also swipe left on individual websites in your history, then click Delete .

Using macOS

• Be sure to update Safari.

• If you're logged into the computer with the same Apple ID you use on your iPhone or iPad, you'll also see sites you've visited on those devices.

• A list of matching results from your history will appear. Click a site to load it in Safari.

• Select a time frame from the drop-down menu, then click Clear History .
• You can also delete cookies from Safari .

Expert Q&A

You Might Also Like

• ↑ https://support.apple.com/guide/safari/search-your-browsing-history-ibrw1114/mac
• ↑ https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT201265

About This Article

iPhone/iPad: 1. Open Safari . 2. Tap the book icon. 3. Tap the clock button. macOS: 1. Open Safari . 2. Click History . 3. Click Show All History . Did this summary help you? Yes No

• Send fan mail to authors

Is this article up to date?

Featured Articles

Trending Articles

Watch Articles

• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy
• Do Not Sell or Share My Info
• Not Selling Info

Keep up with tech in just 5 minutes a week!

We explain and teach technology, solve tech problems and help you make gadget buying decisions.

Top 6 Ways to Fix Unable to Clear History in Safari for iPhone

Like any other browser, Safari gives you the option to clear your browsing history and start with a clean slate. This is helpful as it lets you to erase your online activities, free up space, and troubleshoot temporary browser-related issues. While clearing your browsing history in Safari is typically straightforward, there may be instances where you encounter difficulties along the way.

Temporary glitches, Screen Time restrictions, and persistent cookies are just a few of the reasons you may have trouble clearing your Safari history on your iPhone. Below, we share all the possible solutions for fixing the underlying issue. So, let’s take a look.

1. Restart Your iPhone

Often, temporary iOS glitches can result in Safari’s clear history option appearing grayed out on your iPhone. In most cases, you can fix such anomalies by simply restarting your iPhone. Hence, it’s the first thing you should try.

On iPhone X or newer models, press and hold the Sleep/Wake button with one of the volume buttons and then use the slider to power off your iPhone. On older iPhones, press and hold the Sleep/Wake button until the slider appears and use it to shut down your iPhone.

After your iPhone shuts down completely, press and hold the Sleep/Wake button until the Apple logo appears. When your iPhone restarts, try to clear your Safari browsing history again.

2. Disable Web Content Restrictions

The Screen Time feature on your iPhone lets you apply content restrictions to block inappropriate websites . If you’ve previously enabled this feature, you are likely to run into problems while clearing your Safari history. So, it’s best to remove any web content restrictions on your iPhone.

Step 1: Open the Settings app and tap on Screen Time.

Step 2: Tap ‘Content & Privacy Restrictions’ and select Content Restrictions from the following menu.

Step 3: Tap on Web Content and select the Unrestricted option.

3. Disable iCloud Sync for Safari

Enabling iCloud sync for Safari allows you to sync your browsing history, bookmarks, open tabs, and other data across all your Apple devices. This sync feature can sometimes cause conflicts with Safari and hinder your ability to clear your browsing history. You can temporarily disable iCloud sync for Safari to see if that fixes the issue.

Step 1: Open the Settings app, tap your Apple ID at the top, and select iCloud from the following menu.

Step 2: Under Apps Using iCloud, select the Show All option.

Step 3: Toggle off the switch next to Safari.

4. Clear Safari Reading List

Sometimes, webpages saved in the Safari Reading List may keep appearing in your history, even after you have cleared it. To fix this, you can try clearing your Safari Reading List by following the steps below.

Step 1: Open Safari on your iPhone.

Step 2: Tap the Book icon at the bottom.

Step 3: Tap the glasses icon to switch to the Reading List tab.

Step 4: Tap the Edit option in the bottom right corner, select all the entries, and then tap the Delete option.

After clearing Safari Reading List, check if you can clear your browsing history.

5. Temporarily Block Cookies in Safari

Safari saves cookies to remember your preferences, keep you logged in to websites, and improve your browsing experience. However, certain persistent cookies, specifically designed to remain on your device, may interfere with clearing your browsing data. To check for this possibility, you can temporarily block cookies in Safari .

Step 1: Open the Settings app and scroll down to tap on Safari.

Step 2: Under Privacy & Security, toggle on the switch next to Block All Cookies. Select Block All to confirm.

Try to clear Safari history again after this and check if the issue is still there.

6. Reset Your iPhone

If you still can’t clear your browsing history in Safari, you can try resetting your iPhone . That will restore your iPhone’s settings to default values without affecting your personal data. Here’s how you can go about it.

Step 1: Open the Settings app on your iPhone and tap on General.

Step 2: Scroll down to the bottom of the page and select ‘Transfer or Reset iPhone.’

Step 3: Tap on Reset and select Reset All Settings from the menu that appears.

Start With a Clean Slate

Clearing your browsing history in Safari is something you might do from time to time to maintain privacy. Occasionally, the process may not go smoothly for various reasons, but it’s nothing you can’t fix with the solutions mentioned above.

Was this helpful?

Last updated on 08 May, 2023

The above article may contain affiliate links which help support Guiding Tech. However, it does not affect our editorial integrity. The content remains unbiased and authentic.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

The article above may contain affiliate links which help support Guiding Tech. The content remains unbiased and authentic and will never affect our editorial integrity.

DID YOU KNOW

Pankil Shah

Pankil is a Civil Engineer turned freelance writer from Ahmedabad, India. Since his arrival at Guiding Tech in 2021, he delves into the world of how-tos, and troubleshooting guides on Android, iOS, Windows, and the Web at Guiding Tech. When time permits, he also writes at MakeUseOf and Techwiser. Besides his new-found love for mechanical keyboards, he's a disciplined footfall fan and continues to plan his international travels with his wife.

More in iOS

How to Add and Share PDFs in Apple Books on iPhone and iPad

How to Install Beta Apps on iPhone Using TestFlight

Join the newsletter.

Get Guiding Tech articles delivered to your inbox.

How-To Geek

How to clear your history in any browser.

Looking to delete your browsing history?

Read update

Quick links, clear browsing history in google chrome for desktop, clear google chrome browsing history on android, iphone, or ipad, clear browsing history in safari on iphone and ipad, clear browsing history in mozilla firefox, clear browsing history in microsoft edge, clear browsing history in safari on a mac, internet explorer, key takeaways.

Press Ctrl+Shift+Delete to clear your browsing history on a Windows PC, or press Command+Shift+Delete on a Mac. Check your browser's settings to find this option on a mobile device.

All web browsers remember a list of the web pages you've visited. You can delete this list at any time, clearing your browsing history and erasing the tracks stored on your computer, smartphone, or tablet. Each browser has its own separate history, so you'll need to clear the history in multiple places if you've used more than one browser.

In the future, you can use private browsing mode to browse sensitive websites without your browser saving any history. You won't have to clear your history afterward.

To clear your browsing history in Chrome , on Windows , Mac , or Linux , click the three-dot menu icon found in the top-right corner of the browser, hover your mouse cursor over "More Tools," and choose "Clear Browsing Data." You can also press Ctrl+Shift+Delete to open this screen on Windows, or press Command+Shift+Delete on a Mac.

On a Mac, the backspace key is labeled "Delete." Pressing the Delete key beside the Home and Edit keys doesn't work.

To delete your entire browsing history, select from "the beginning of time" in the drop-down box at the top of the screen and check the "Browsing history" option. You can also choose to clear other private data from here, including your download history, cookies, and browser cache.

Related: How to Clear History in Google Chrome

To clear your browsing history in Google Chrome on Android , iPhone , or iPad , tap the three-dot menu icon > Settings > Privacy and Security > Clear Browsing Data.

You'll need to choose a time range that you want to delete from the drop-down list at the top of the screen. Select from the "beginning of time" to clear everything.

Related: How to Clear Your Browser History on Android

Ensure the "Browsing history" option is checked here and tap the "Clear Data" or "Clear Browsing Data" button. You can also choose to clear other types of personal data from here, including cookies and cached files.

Related: How to Clear Your Browsing History in Chrome for iOS

To clear your browsing history on Safari on an iPhone or iPad , open the Settings app and then navigate to Safari > Clear History and Website Data. Tap the "Clear History and Data" option to confirm your choice.

This button will clear all sensitive browsing data, including your cookies and cache.

Related: How to Clear Your Browsing History in Safari for iOS

To clear your browsing history in Firefox  on the desktop, click the three-line menu icon in the top-right corner of the browser and then navigate to History > Clear Recent History. You can also press Ctrl+Shift+Delete to open this tool on Windows or press Command+Shift+Delete on a Mac.

To delete your entire browsing history, select "Everything" at the top of the window and check "Browsing & Download History" in the detailed list of items to clear. You can also choose to clear other types of private data from here, including your cookies, browser cache, offline website data, and website-specific preferences.

Related: How to Clear Your Browsing History in Firefox

To clear your browsing history in Microsoft Edge , click the Three-Dot Menu > History > Three-Dot Menu Button > Clear Browsing Data. You can also press Ctrl+Shift+Delete to open these options on Windows or Command+Shift+Delete on Mac.

Ensure the "Browsing History" box is checked and click "Clear." You can also choose to clear other types of private data from here, including your download history, cached data, cookies, and tabs you've set aside . Just check the type of data you want to delete and click the "Clear" button.

Related: How to Clear Your Browsing History in Microsoft Edge

To clear your browsing history in Safari on a Mac , click History > Clear History from the menu bar at the top of your screen. Select the time period you want to clear history from and click "Clear History." To clear everything, select "all history".

Safari will delete your browsing history as well as your cookies, cached files, and other browsing-related data.

Related: How to Clear Safari's Browsing History and Cookies on macOS

To clear your browsing history in Internet Explorer , click menu > Safety > Delete Browsing History or press Ctrl+Shift+Delete.

Ensure the "History" option is checked here and click "Delete". You can also choose to delete other types of private data from here, including your temporary Internet files, download history, and cookies.

Microsoft has removed Internet Explorer and urges everyone to switch to Edge. Internet Explorer has repeatedly been used by  hackers to attack Windows users.  We recommend you immediately stop using Internet Explorer if you're still able to launch it.

By default, Internet Explorer will keep cookies and temporary Internet files for websites you've saved as favorites. Uncheck "Preserve Favorites website data" here to ensure Internet Explorer deletes everything.

If you're using another browser, you should be able to easily find a "clear browsing history" option somewhere in its menus or on its settings screen. For example, in Opera, this option is at menu > More tools > Clear browsing data.

Related: How to Clear Your Internet Explorer Browsing History

How to Use Shortcut to Quickly Delete Safari Browsing History and Data

Here is how you can use Shortcuts app to quickly delete Safari Browsing History and Data on your iPhone and iPad.

Your iPhone does a great job of preventing online trackers from tracking you across websites and creating a digital profile. Still, websites save cache on your phone that can be used to track you online, and deleting Safari browsing history on iPhone and iPad takes several steps, which can be cumbersome. In this article, I will show you how you can create a shortcut that will let you delete Safari Browsing History and Data with just a tap.

How to delete Safari browsing history and data on iPhone and iPad

Before we begin creating our shortcut, let’s check out how you can manually delete Safari browsing history and data on your iPhone and iPad.

How to manually delete Safari browsing history and data on iPhone and iPad

Create siri shortcut to quickly delete safari browsing history and data.

• Launch the Settings app on your iPhone.

2. Scroll down to find Safari and tap on it.

3. Scroll down to find Clear History and Website Data settings, and tap on It.

4. On the splash screen, tap on the Clear History and Data option to confirm the action.

Now that you know how the manual steps work, let’s create a Siri shortcut that will help you delete Safari browsing history and data with just a tap.

In iOS and iPadOS, when a URL is run on Safari in a certain format, it executes the corresponding preference settings on the device. Thanks to OJISAN SEIUCHI , we know which URL to run to delete Safari browsing history and data. Here are the steps to create the shortcut.

• Launch the Shortcuts app on your iPhone and click on the + button at the top-right to start creating the shortcut.

2. Tap on the Add Action button and search for the URL action. Tap on the URL action to add to the shortcut.

3. In the URL section, copy and paste the below URL.

prefs:root=SAFARI&path=CLEAR_HISTORY_AND_DATA

4. If you see the Open URLs option in the Next Actions Suggestions tap on it. Otherwise, tap on the search bar at the bottom and search for the Open URLs action and tap to add it.

5. Tap on the top of the shortcut to give it a name. Let’s name it Clear Safari Data.

6. Your shortcut is now ready. If you want to add it to your Home Screen, tap on the settings menu at the top-right and then tap on Add to Home Screen. Tap on the App icon to set a custom icon if you want. Finally, tap on the Add button at the top.

7. To clear Safari history and data, either tap on the Home Screen icon for the shortcut or launch the app and tap on the shortcut. You can even ask Siri to Clear Safari Data (or whatever name you have given to your shortcut), and it will run the shortcut. Confirm to delete Safari History and Data.

Clear Safari history and data with Siri Shortcut

The easiest way to use this shortcut is to ask Siri to run the shortcut and then tap once to confirm the deletion of Safari browsing history and data. If you liked this shortcut, check out our list of best Siri Shortcuts , along with our shortcuts for announcing when the battery is fully charged , generating gradient wallpaper , combining images , and more. If you had issues following this tutorial or have any feedback for us, don’t forget to reach us on Twitter .

Best External SSD for Mac to Buy in 2024

Here are the best external SSD for Mac to buy in 2024. The list contacts affordable SSDs, high performance SSDs, rugged SSDs, and secure SSDs.

How to Ping iPhone from Apple Watch

Misplaced your iPhone and don't know how to find it? Here's how to ping iPhone from Apple Watch to locate it.

How to Convert Video into GIF on iPhone

GIFS are all the rage on social media and messaging. Here is how to convert video into GIF on iPhone for free using the Apple Shortcuts app.

How to Use Vertical Scrolling in Apple Books

Do you prefer to vertically scroll books when reading on iPhone? Here’s how to use vertical scrolling in Apple Books. 

iPhone 15: How to Clear Safari History Quickly and Easily

Clearing your Safari history on the iPhone 15 is a quick and straightforward process. Simply head to the Settings app, scroll down to Safari, tap on it, and then select “Clear History and Website Data.” Confirm the action, and voila, your browsing history is gone!

After you complete this action, all the records of your browsing history, cookies, and other website data on your iPhone will be erased. This means that anyone else who uses your phone won’t be able to see which websites you’ve visited.

You can also check out this video about how to clear Safari history on iPhone 15 for more information on this topic.

Introduction

The iPhone 15 is a remarkable gadget that’s become an integral part of our daily lives. From making calls to surfing the web, this device does it all. But have you ever thought about the digital footprints you leave behind while browsing the internet? Your browsing history can reveal a lot about your interests, preferences, and even your location. That’s why knowing how to clear your Safari history is crucial for maintaining your privacy.

You might be wondering why this is important. Well, if you’re someone who values your privacy or simply wants to keep your browsing habits to yourself, clearing your history is a must. It’s also relevant to those who share their devices with others and prefer to keep their internet activity private. Plus, it’s a good practice to clear your history regularly to keep your device running smoothly.

Related: Safari History iPhone: How to See It [2023 Guide]

Step by Step Tutorial on How to Clear Safari History

Before we dive into the steps, let’s understand what we’re trying to achieve here. Clearing your Safari history removes traces of the websites you’ve visited. This can help protect your privacy and also free up some storage space on your device.

Step 1: Open the Settings App

Start by opening the Settings app on your iPhone 15.

In the Settings app, you’ll have access to a variety of options. To clear your browsing history, you need to navigate to the Safari settings.

Step 2: Scroll Down and Tap on Safari

Scroll down until you find Safari and tap on it.

The Safari settings give you control over your web browsing experience, including privacy settings and history.

Step 3: Select “Clear History and Website Data”

Locate and select the “Clear History and Website Data” option.

By tapping on this, you’re just a step away from erasing your browsing history. This action cannot be undone, so make sure you’re ready to clear everything.

Step 4: Confirm the Action

Confirm your choice to clear the history and website data.

Once you confirm, your iPhone will remove all records of your browsing history, cookies, and other website data.

Video About Clearing History

Additional Information

When it comes to managing your digital privacy, clearing your Safari history on the iPhone 15 is just the tip of the iceberg. It’s also a good idea to regularly review your privacy settings and be mindful of the permissions you grant to apps and websites. Remember, the more proactive you are about your digital privacy, the less you’ll have to worry about your personal information being compromised.

Furthermore, consider using private browsing modes like Safari’s Private Browsing when you don’t want your history to be saved at all. This can be handy for one-off searches or when you’re using a shared device. And finally, keep your iPhone’s software up to date to benefit from the latest security features and fixes.

• Open the Settings app.
• Tap on Safari.
• Select “Clear History and Website Data.”
• Confirm the action to clear the history.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does clearing safari history also clear bookmarks.

No, clearing your Safari history will not delete your bookmarks.

Can I recover my browsing history after clearing it?

Once your history is cleared, it cannot be recovered.

Will clearing history log me out of websites?

Yes, you will be logged out from most websites after clearing history and website data.

Can I clear history for a specific time period?

No, clearing history on Safari removes all history; you can’t specify a time period.

Does clearing history affect other devices signed into the same iCloud account?

Yes, if Safari’s iCloud sync is enabled, clearing history will affect all devices signed into the same account.

Keeping your digital life private is crucial in today’s interconnected world, and clearing your Safari history on the iPhone 15 is a step towards that. Not only does this simple act protect your privacy, but it also helps your device run better.

So, whether you’re a privacy enthusiast or just someone who likes to keep things tidy, clearing your Safari history is a smart move. Remember, the digital footprints you leave behind can tell a story you might not want to share, so take control of your data and browse with confidence.

Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.

After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.

His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.

Read his full bio here.

Share this:

Join our free newsletter.

Featured guides and deals

You may opt out at any time. Read our Privacy Policy

Related posts:

• Safari History iPhone: How to See It [2023 Guide]
• 15 Ways to Fix Safari Not Working on iPhone in 2023
• How to Clear Cookies on iPhone
• How to Clear History in Firefox on iPhone: A Simple Guide
• iPhone 14 – How to Clear Browsing History
• How to Clear Safari History on iPhone 14: A Step-by-Step Guide
• How to Clear History in Chrome on iPhone: A Step-by-Step Guide
• How to Delete YouTube History on iPad
• iOS 17 – How to Clear Safari Cache: Quick Guide
• How Can I Remove Safari Cookies on an iPhone 14?: A Step-by-Step Guide
• How to Clear History on iPhone 14
• How to Delete History on iPhone 14: A Step-by-Step Guide
• iOS 17 – How to Clear Safari History
• 15 iPhone Settings You Might Want to Change
• Why Can’t I Create a Private Browsing Tab in Safari on My iPhone?
• iOS 17: How to Clear Cookies on iPhone in Simple Steps
• What is Edge on iPhone?
• Options for Clearing Cache on iPhone 13: A Step-by-Step Guide
• How to Clear Cache on iPhone 13
• How to Do Private Browsing on iPhone 15: A Step-by-Step Guide

• All about AI
• Google Bard
• Inflection AI Pi Chatbot
• Anthropic Claude
• Generative AI
• AI Image Generation
• AI Regulation
• AI Research
• Large Language Models (LLM)
• Surface Pro
• Surface Laptop
• Surface Book
• Surface Duo
• Surface Neo
• Surface Studio
• Surface Hub
• Surface Pen
• Surface Headphones
• Surface Earbuds
• About WinBuzzer
• Follow Us: PUSH, Feeds, Social
• Write for Us
• Cookie Policy and Privacy Policy
• Terms of Service

How to Clear Cookies, Cache, and Site Data for a Specific Site in Chrome, Edge or Firefox

We show you how to clear cookies for a specific site in Chrome, Firefox, and Microsoft Edge, as well as the cache and site data.

Table of Contents:

Experiencing issues with a website can often be resolved by a simple yet effective method: clearing your browser’s cache or cookies.   This tutorial will guide you through the process of deleting cookies and cache for a specific site in Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge, and Firefox.   By targeting only the problematic site, you avoid the inconvenience of logging out from other services across the web. This approach is not only practical but also enhances your browsing experience by resolving site-specific issues without broader impacts.

Google Chrome: Delete Specific Cookies, Cache, and Site Data

There are a couple of different ways you can utilize Chrome to delete cookies for a specific site. You can make use of its siteData page or delete cookies directly from the browser bar in the site you’re experiencing issues with.

Method 1: Use Chrome Settings

Method 2: Delete Cookies From a Specific Site via the Chrome Address Bar

Microsoft Edge: Clear Cache, Site Data, and Cookies for a Specific Site

As a browser built on the Chromium platform, Microsoft Edge shares similarities with Chrome in managing site data but adds its unique interface and steps.

Method 1:  Use Edge Settings

Method 2:  Use the Address Bar

Mozilla Firefox: Clear Cache, Site Data, and Cookies for a Specific Site

Firefox approaches the management of cookies and site data differently, offering a straightforward method to ensure your privacy and resolve site-specific issues.

Method 1: Use Firefox Settings

Method 1:  Use the Address Bar

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions About Clearing Cookies

How can i clear cookies for a specific site on safari.

In Safari, go to “Safari” > “Preferences” > “Privacy” tab, then click on “Manage Website Data.” A list of websites storing data on your device will appear. Use the search bar to find the specific site whose cookies you want to clear, select it, and press “Remove.” Remember, doing this may log you out of the site or reset website preferences.

Can I delete cache for a specific site in Opera?

Yes, Opera allows for the clearing of cache and cookies for specific sites. To do this, type `opera://settings/siteData` in the address bar and press Enter. You’ll see a list of all sites that have stored data. Use the search function to find the specific site and click on the trash icon beside it to clear its data. This will remove both cookies and cached content, potentially improving the site’s loading time on future visits.

How can I ensure a site’s cookies and site data are continuously blocked?

To continuously block cookies and site data for a specific site or all sites, access your browser’s privacy settings. For example, in Chrome, navigate to Settings > Privacy and security > Cookies and other site data . Here, you can block cookies entirely or enter specific websites to block or allow. This proactive approach can enhance your privacy but might also affect the functionality of some sites.

Can clearing cache and cookies improve browser performance?

Clearing cache and cookies can significantly improve browser performance. Over time, browsers accumulate a large amount of data, which can slow down website loading times and overall browser responsiveness. Regularly clearing this data helps maintain optimal performance. Moreover, it can resolve issues with websites that have been updated since your last visit, as cached data might conflict with the new content.

How often should I clear my browser’s cache and cookies?

There’s no strict rule, but a good practice is to clear cache and cookies every 2-3 months or when experiencing issues like slow browser speed, logging in problems, or outdated website content. Regularly clearing your cache and cookies can be particularly beneficial if you frequently visit a lot of websites or if you’re concerned about privacy and tracking.

What’s the difference between cache and cookies?

Cookies are small files stored by websites on your computer to remember your preferences or login state, enhancing your browsing experience on future visits. The cache, on the other hand, saves parts of web pages like images and scripts to speed up website loading times. While both improve your browsing, cookies focus on personalization and the cache on performance.

Can I selectively clear cookies and cache on mobile browsers?

Yes, most modern mobile browsers support selective clearing of cookies and cache for specific sites. For example, in Chrome for Android, you can navigate to Site Settings > All Sites , find the specific site, and clear its data. This feature offers a way to resolve issues with individual sites without affecting your experience on others, similar to desktop browsers.

What impact does clearing cookies and site data have on my login sessions?

Clearing cookies for a site logs you out because cookies are used to remember your login state. If you’re experiencing issues with a website, clearing its cookies can be a quick fix, but you’ll need to log in again afterward. This action won’t affect your login state on other websites unless you clear all cookies.

Is there a way to auto-clear cookies and cache when exiting the browser?

Most browsers allow you to set them to automatically clear cookies and cache upon closing. In Firefox, for example, this can be configured in Privacy & Security settings by selecting “Clear history when Firefox closes” and customizing what gets cleared. This feature can be useful for protecting privacy, especially on shared computers.

Can browser extensions help manage cookies and cache more effectively?

Browser extensions can offer more granular control over cookies and cache than built-in browser settings. Extensions like Cookie AutoDelete, uBlock Origin, and Clear Cache provide functionalities such as automatic cookie deletion after tab closure, blocking unwanted content and cookies, and easy cache clearing with a single click, enhancing privacy and user experience.

How do I troubleshoot if clearing cookies and cache doesn’t resolve a site issue?

If clearing cookies and cache doesn’t fix the problem, try other troubleshooting steps such as updating your browser to the latest version, disabling browser extensions to identify potential conflicts, or opening the site in incognito mode to bypass cache and cookies altogether. These steps can help identify if the issue is with the browser, an extension, or the website itself.

How can private browsing modes affect cookies and cache storage?

Private browsing modes, like Incognito in Chrome or Private Window in Firefox, don’t save browsing history, cookies, and site data after the window is closed. This means any cookies or cache generated during the private session are cleared immediately upon closing the window, offering a more secure and private browsing experience. However, files downloaded or bookmarks created in private mode will be saved.

Is it possible to clear local storage along with cookies in browsers?

Yes, when you clear site data through your browser’s settings, it often includes both cookies and local storage. Local storage is used by websites to store larger amounts of data than cookies, improving site functionality and speed. Clearing it along with cookies can resolve site issues but may also reset site preferences and login states.

How can I view cookies stored by a site in Firefox?

In Firefox, you can view cookies stored by a site by clicking the padlock icon in the address bar, selecting “Connection Secure,” then clicking “More Information” and going to the “Privacy & Security” tab. Here, you’ll find a “View Cookies” button that shows all cookies related to the website, allowing you to inspect or remove them as needed.

Can deleting cookies and cache solve all website-related issues?

While clearing cookies and cache can solve many common website issues related to performance, login errors, and outdated content, not all problems can be resolved this way. Other factors, such as internet connectivity issues, browser compatibility, or server-side problems, may also contribute to website problems. If clearing data doesn’t help, consider exploring these other potential causes.

Related: How to Clear Browsing History on Chrome, Edge, or Firefox

Related: how to delete google search bar history on chrome, edge and firefox.

Related: How to Change the Default Search Engine in Chrome, Edge, Safari, Opera, and Firefox

Related: How to Enable Caret Browsing in Chrome, Edge, and other Chromium browsers

• Clear Cookies
• Google Chrome
• Microsoft Edge
• Web Browsers

Recent News

Google’s Find My Device Now Locates Powered-Off Phones and Bluetooth-Tagged Items

Naver Unveils HyperCLOVA X: A Leap Forward in Multilingual AI Capabilities

Subscribe to WinBuzzer on Google News