Safe to Delete

Apple Messages Attachment Cache (~/Library/Messages/Attachments)

Space: 5 GB – 40 GB+ macos macOS
Quick Answer: The Messages Attachments folder stores local copies of all photos, videos, and voice notes received in iMessage. Deleting attachments is safe.

Bottom Line: It is 100% safe to delete ~/Library/Messages/Attachments. Every video clip, photo, and PDF received in iMessage is permanently saved locally to this folder.

What is Messages Attachments?

Located at ~/Library/Messages/Attachments, iMessage automatically downloads and stores media attachments. Over years of messaging, this folder frequently consumes 10 GB to 60 GB+.

Can You Delete iMessage Attachments?

✅ Yes, safe to delete.

  • iCloud Backup: If iCloud Messages is enabled, attachments remain accessible in the cloud.

How to Clean Up iMessage Attachments

rm -rf ~/Library/Messages/Attachments/*

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