Mac storage basics · Developer tools
What is the hidden .cache folder in my home folder?
Short answer: Command-line and developer tools keep downloads there, such as AI model files and package caches. Check which tool owns each subfolder; deleting a cache is generally safe.
Many command-line and developer tools keep their downloads in a hidden .cache folder in your home folder — for example machine-learning model downloads, package managers and browser-automation tools. Downloaded AI models in particular can take many gigabytes.
Look inside (press Shift-Command-. in Finder to show hidden files) to see which tool owns each folder. Deleting a tool's cache is generally safe; it downloads again when needed.