~/Library/Application Support/MobileSync/Backup — Mac System Folder Guide
The ~/Library/Application Support/MobileSync/Backup location stores iPhone and iPad device backups. It can grow to 5 GB – 200 GB over time. Here's what's safe to remove, what to leave alone, and how OptiClear automates the safe cleanup.
~/Library/Application Support/MobileSync/BackupWhat This Folder Stores
iPhone and iPad device backups
What's Safe to Delete
Files older than 30 days in this folder are usually safe to remove — macOS recreates anything it still needs. Always quit running apps first and never delete the folder itself, only its contents.
Manual Cleanup Steps
- Quit the app completely (⌘+Q in the menu bar).
- Open Finder and press ⌘+Shift+G to open "Go to Folder".
- Paste this path and press Enter:
~/Library/Application Support/MobileSync/Backup - Select the files you no longer need and move them to Trash. Empty Trash to reclaim the space.
Manual cleanup is tedious and easy to get wrong. OptiClear scans your entire Mac in seconds, finds every related file, and removes them safely — files always go to Trash first, never permanent deletion.
Download OptiClear — Free for macOSOne-Click Cleanup with OptiClear
Manual cleanup is tedious and easy to get wrong. OptiClear scans your entire Mac in seconds, finds every related file, and removes them safely — files always go to Trash first, never permanent deletion.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to delete these files manually?
Yes — files in ~/Library/Application Support/MobileSync/Backup are app-generated and safe to remove after quitting the app. Risk level: Caution. macOS or the app will recreate anything still needed.
Will I lose my settings or data?
Manual removal of the support folder resets the app to defaults. To keep settings, back up the location first or use OptiClear's selective cleanup.