Elementor is one of the most popular WordPress page builders. It creates CSS and JS files to speed up page loading. However, over time, these files can become outdated or corrupted. This can cause styling issues, slow performance, or updates not reflecting on your site. Clearing Elementor cache resolves these issues.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through why clearing Elementor cache is essential, step-by-step methods to do it, and best practices for cache management.
What is Elementor Cache?
Elementor cache stores dynamic CSS, JS, and other files generated when you design pages. It helps browsers load your site faster. However, this cache can sometimes conflict with updates or new designs. For example:
- You change a section color, but the live site still shows the old version.
- You update typography, but nothing changes visually.
- You switch themes, but the layout looks broken.
In these cases, clearing the cache helps Elementor regenerate files correctly.
How to Clear Elementor Cache (Step-by-Step)
Follow these proven methods to clear Elementor cache effectively:
1. Clear Cache from Elementor Settings
- In WordPress, go to Elementor > Tools.
- Click Clear Files & Data (earlier called Regenerate CSS & Data).
- Click Sync Library to update templates.
- Refresh your site to check changes.
This method targets Elementor’s internal cache files.
2. Clear Browser Cache
Browsers store site files to speed up access, but this can cause cache conflicts. Clear browser cache to view the latest design.
- In Chrome: Press Ctrl+Shift+Delete, select Cached images and files, and click Clear data.
- In Firefox: Press Ctrl+Shift+Delete, select Cache, and click OK.
- In Edge: Press Ctrl+Shift+Delete, select Cached images and files, and click Clear now.
This ensures your browser fetches the latest files.
3. Clear Cache Using Caching Plugins
Plugins like WP Rocket or W3 Total Cache manage site-wide cache. If Elementor changes aren’t visible:
- In WP Rocket: Go to WP Rocket > Dashboard, click Clear Cache and Purge OPCache.
- In W3 Total Cache: Go to Performance > Dashboard, click Empty All Caches.
This clears plugin-level cache that may override Elementor’s.
If The Issue Still Persists
1. Clear Server Cache via Hosting Panel
Some hosting providers use server-level caching, which can cause conflicts.
- Log in to your hosting control panel (e.g., SiteGround, Kinsta, Cloudways).
- Locate Cache Management or Performance Settings.
- Click Clear Cache or Purge All.
This clears cached content stored at the server level.
2. Clear CDN Cache (if used)
Some hosting providers use server-level caching, which can cause conflicts.
- Log in to your CDN dashboard.
- Navigate to Caching Settings.
- Click Purge Cache or Purge Everything.
This ensures global servers fetch the latest version of your site.
Common Issues After Clearing Cache (and How to Fix Them)
Sometimes, clearing cache reveals other issues. Here’s what to expect and how to resolve them:
Missing Styles or Broken Layouts:
Hard-refresh your browser (Ctrl+F5) to load updated files. If the issue persists, go to Elementor > Tools and click Regenerate CSS & Data. This clears any corrupted styling files. Also, check if other caching plugins are still holding onto old files.Design Updates Not Reflecting:
Clear cache across all layers—Elementor, browser, caching plugins, server-level caching, and CDN (if used). Outdated files can get stuck in any of these layers. Start by clearing Elementor’s cache, then move to plugins, hosting, and CDN. Check each layer systematically to ensure the latest version of your site appears.Slow Page Load After Cache Clear:
After clearing cache, your site may load slower initially as it rebuilds cache files from scratch. This is normal. Monitor the site over the next few hours. If performance doesn’t improve, check for conflicts with caching plugins or hosting configurations. Use tools like Google PageSpeed Insights or GTmetrix to identify specific bottlenecks.
Why Clearing Elementor Cache Matters
Elementor cache can cause styling errors and slow loading. Clearing it ensures your changes show instantly. It fixes broken designs and improves site speed.
Updates apply correctly across all devices. It prevents plugin conflicts. Clearing cache gives visitors a seamless experience. It also helps search engines index your updated content.
Conclusion
Clearing Elementor cache keeps your site fresh and fast. It fixes errors, updates styles, and improves performance. Use Elementor Tools, browser cache clearing, plugin and server purges. Automate the process for ease.
This ensures a seamless user experience and smooth updates. Stay ahead with regular cache management to maintain a fast, optimized website.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Elementor cache?
Elementor cache stores CSS, JS, and other files to load pages faster. However, it can cause issues when outdated. Clearing it ensures updated styles and content display correctly.
How do I clear Elementor cache?
Clear cache from Elementor > Tools by regenerating CSS. Also clear browser, plugin, server, and CDN caches for complete updates. Regularly clearing cache ensures smooth performance.
Why is my site slow after clearing Elementor cache?
Clearing cache rebuilds files, temporarily slowing load times. Monitor performance with tools like GTmetrix or PageSpeed Insights. Issues resolve as cache rebuilds and content optimizes for speed.
Can I automate Elementor cache clearing?
Yes, plugins like WP Rocket or AI-powered add-ons automate cache clearing. They monitor changes and auto-purge outdated cache. Automation saves time and ensures your site stays updated.
How often should I clear Elementor cache?
Clear cache during development, after updates, or when issues arise. Avoid unnecessary clearing on stable sites. Automation helps maintain performance without manual checks every time.
