How To Delete Instagram Account

How To Delete Instagram Account (Step-by-Step Guide 2025)

If you’ve decided to take a break from social media or want to permanently leave Instagram, you might be wondering how to delete your Instagram account. Whether you’re doing it for privacy reasons, to reduce screen time, or simply for a fresh start, this guide will walk you through how to delete your Instagram account permanently or temporarily deactivate it.

1. Knowing the Distinction Between Deactivating and Deleting an Instagram Account

It’s crucial to understand the distinction between deactivating and deleting your Instagram account before moving forward:

Deactivate Instagram Account: You can use this option to temporarily stop using your account. Until you log back in, your profile, pictures, likes, and comments will be hidden.

Delete Instagram Account: This option erases all of your information, including messages, followers, and photographs, permanently. You cannot get your username or account back once it has been erased.

2. How To Delete an Instagram Account Permanently

Follow these simple steps to delete your Instagram account:

Step 1: Log in to Instagram

You can’t delete your account from the Instagram app directly. Go to the Instagram Delete Your Account page

from a web browser on your phone or computer.

Step 2: Choose a Reason for Deleting

Instagram will ask you to select a reason why you want to delete your account. Pick an option from the dropdown list.

Step 3: Re-enter Your Password

Enter your password again to verify your identity.

Step 4: Click “Delete Account”

Once confirmed, click Delete [Username]. Your Instagram account will be scheduled for permanent deletion.

🕒 Note: Instagram usually keeps your data for 30 days before it’s permanently deleted. If you change your mind, you can log back in during this time to cancel the deletion.

3. How to Deactivate Your Instagram Account Temporarily

Instead of canceling your account, you can deactivate it if you only need a little break.

Step 1: Use a browser to log into Instagram.
Step 2: Click Edit Profile after accessing your profile.
Step 3: Click Temporarily disable my account after scrolling down.
Step 4: Enter your password and select a reason.
Click “Temporarily Disable Account” in step five.

Until you log back in, your profile will be hidden.

4. How to Get Rid of a Mobile Instagram Account

When using the Instagram app:

Launch Instagram and navigate to your profile.

1. In the upper right corner, tap the menu (☰).

2. 1. Go to Settings and Privacy → Accounts Center → Personal Details → Account Ownership and Control.

   2. Select Deactivation or Deletion.

   3. Choose the account you want to delete, select Delete Account, and confirm

   5. Important Things To Do Before Deleting Your Account

   Before deleting your Instagram permanently, make sure to:

   • Download your data: Go to Settings → Privacy and Security → Data Download to request a copy of your photos, posts, and messages.

   • Inform followers or clients: If you use Instagram for business, let people know how to reach you elsewhere.

   • Unlink third-party apps: Remove any apps connected to your Instagram for security.