Understanding Website Cache and Why It Matters
Website cache is a temporary storage mechanism that helps your webpages load faster for repeated visitors. Browsers, servers, and CDNs store cached versions of images, scripts, and layout files so users don’t have to download them again. While cache improves loading time and user experience, it can sometimes cause outdated information to show up. That is exactly why knowing when to clear cache and how to do it the right way is essential for website performance.
At Siddha Infotech, we manage websites across WordPress, Shopify, Elementor, Divi, WP Bakery, and custom platforms. One of the most common issues our clients face is:
“Why is my website not showing the latest changes?”
Most of the time, the answer is simple — the cache hasn’t been cleared.
When Should You Clear Website Cache?
Cache should not be cleared randomly because it helps maintain speed and a smooth browsing experience. However, certain situations demand a complete cache refresh:
1. After Making Website Design Changes
If you update sections such as banners, menu items, layouts, or typography and the changes don’t show up, clearing cache ensures the latest version appears for visitors.
2. After Updating Plugins, Themes, or WordPress Core
Major updates can break layouts or conflict with old cached files. Clearing cache helps your website load fresh, stable files.
3. When Website Feels Slow or Unresponsive
Old cached scripts sometimes slow down performance. A fresh cache reset improves loading speed and fixes broken elements.
4. When You Add New Pages, Products, or Blog Posts
If new content isn’t visible instantly, cache might still be serving old versions.
5. When You Fix Any Bug or Error
If you troubleshoot issues like 404 errors, CSS glitches, or menu alignment problems, clearing cache helps the corrections take effect.
How to Clear Website Cache (Step-by-Step)
Browser Cache
- Open browser settings → Privacy & Security
- Select Clear Browsing Data
- Check “Cached images and files”
- Clear data
WordPress Plugin Cache
If you use WP Rocket, LiteSpeed, W3 Total Cache, etc.:
- Login to WordPress Admin
- Go to Settings / Performance / Caching Plugin
- Click Clear Cache or Purge All
Server Cache
- Login to your hosting panel
- Look for Cache Manager / Performance / Speed Tools
- Click Purge / Flush Cache
Cloudflare CDN Cache
-
Login to Cloudflare
-
Go to Caching
-
Click Purge Everything
Key Features
- Clear cache after design updates for instant visual changes
- Use hosting and plugin tools to purge server and browser cache
- Improves loading speed and fixes broken page layouts
- Ensures new products, posts, and pages appear immediately
- Prevents outdated scripts from causing performance issues