Sometimes, a social media break is exactly what you need. If you’ve decided that stepping away from Instagram for good is the right move for your mental space or digital well-being, knowing how to properly close your account is the first step. It can feel like a big decision, but the process itself is straightforward once you know where to look.
Taking a Break vs. Saying Goodbye
Before you proceed, it’s helpful to know that Instagram gives you two options. You can either temporarily disable your account or permanently delete it. Temporarily disabling your account is like putting your profile on pause. People can’t see your profile, photos, or comments, but you can reactivate everything by simply logging back in. Permanently deleting your account, however, removes your profile, photos, videos, comments, and followers for good. This action cannot be reversed.
How to Permanently Delete Your Instagram Account
You can’t delete your account from within the Instagram app itself. You need to visit Instagram’s dedicated account deletion page from a mobile browser or a computer. Once you’re on the correct page, you’ll be asked to log in. You’ll then see a dropdown menu asking for your reason for leaving. After selecting a reason, you’ll need to re-enter your password. The final step is clicking the button that says “Permanently delete my account.” Remember, Instagram will not delete your account immediately; it may take up to 30 days for all your data to be fully removed from their systems.
A Few Things to Consider First
Before you click that final button, take a moment. If you use your Instagram account to log into other apps, like Spotify or certain games, you may lose access to those services. It’s a good idea to update your login method for those apps first. You might also want to download a copy of your photos and data if you have any cherished memories stored there. You can do this from your Instagram settings under “Privacy and Security.”
Closing your Instagram account is a personal choice that can feel incredibly freeing. By following these steps, you can ensure the process is smooth and final, giving you the clean break you’re looking for.
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