How to Get docker-compose to Always Re-create Containers from Fresh Images

TLDR

To make docker-compose always re-create containers from fresh images, use docker-compose pull to get the latest images, then run docker-compose up --force-recreate --build. This ensures containers are rebuilt or replaced, not reused from cache.

Why Containers Might Not Be Re-created

By default, docker-compose up reuses existing containers if they already exist, even if the image has changed. This can lead to running old code or missing updates, especially in development or CI.

The Solution: Use the Right Flags

• --force-recreate: Forces docker-compose to remove and re-create containers, even if nothing changed in the config.
• --build: Builds images before starting containers (useful if you have local Dockerfiles).
• --pull: Always attempt to pull newer images before building (Compose V2 only, or use docker-compose pull first).

Recommended workflow:

docker-compose pull           # Get the latest images from the registry
docker-compose up --build --force-recreate

Or, with Compose V2 (Docker CLI):

docker compose up --build --force-recreate --pull always

Example

Suppose you updated your app image in a registry. To make sure your containers use the new image:

docker-compose pull app
# Then:
docker-compose up --build --force-recreate app

This will:

• Pull the latest image for app
• Build any local images if needed
• Remove and re-create the app container

Cleaning Up Old Containers and Images

If you want to remove stopped containers and unused images:

docker-compose down --rmi all --volumes

• --rmi all: Remove all images used by services
• --volumes: Remove named volumes declared in the volumes section

Best Practices

• Use --force-recreate in development to avoid stale containers
• Use --pull or docker-compose pull to always get the latest images
• For CI/CD, script these steps to ensure clean deploys
• Document your workflow for your team

Conclusion

To always get fresh containers from the latest images, combine docker-compose pull with docker-compose up --build --force-recreate. This keeps your environment up to date and avoids surprises from cached or outdated containers.