The short answer
Yes. Rebuilt or re-downloaded automatically when needed.
What is it?
CocoaPods stores a downloaded copy of every pod version it installs in ~/Library/Caches/CocoaPods, so later pod install runs can copy pods locally instead of downloading them. Old versions are kept indefinitely, so it can reach several gigabytes.
What happens if you delete it?
Pods are downloaded again the next time pod install or pod update needs them. The Pods folder inside each project is separate and keeps working.
How to remove it properly
Run pod cache clean --all in Terminal, which is CocoaPods’ own command for emptying this cache, or move ~/Library/Caches/CocoaPods to the Trash.
Quit the app that uses it, then move it to the Trash. Empty the Trash when you’re sure.
How MoreRoom helps
MoreRoom recognises this item, shows its real size and when it was last used, and labels it “Safe to remove”. In the free version you can move it to the Trash in one click, with Undo; Pro collects every safe item at once.
Frequently asked questions
Is it safe to delete the CocoaPods cache?
Yes. Rebuilt or re-downloaded automatically when needed. Pods are downloaded again the next time pod install or pod update needs them. The Pods folder inside each project is separate and keeps working.
Will CocoaPods cache come back after I delete it?
Yes. Pods are downloaded again the next time pod install or pod update needs them. The Pods folder inside each project is separate and keeps working.
How do I remove CocoaPods cache properly?
Run pod cache clean --all in Terminal, which is CocoaPods’ own command for emptying this cache, or move ~/Library/Caches/CocoaPods to the Trash.