This extension method is a solution for a memory leak problem with recyclerviews.

recyclerview-fix-leak-extension.kt

/**
 * Set the adapter and call [clearReference] extension function in one call.
 * Use this extension if the current Fragment is going to be REPLACED. (When using fragmentTransaction.add is not necessary) the back stack.
 */
fun <VH : RecyclerView.ViewHolder> RecyclerView.setNullableAdapter(
    adapter: RecyclerView.Adapter<VH>
) {
    this.adapter = adapter
    this.clearReference()
}

/**
 * Remove the adapter after the view has been detached from window in order to prevent memory leaks.
 */
internal fun RecyclerView.clearReference() {
    addOnAttachStateChangeListener(object : View.OnAttachStateChangeListener {
        override fun onViewAttachedToWindow(v: View?) {

        }

        override fun onViewDetachedFromWindow(v: View?) {
            [email protected] = null
        }
    })
}

// Usage in your fragment or activity ->

viewDataBinding.myRv.setNullableAdapter(adapter)