How to Delete or Deactivate Your Instagram Account

This guide explains how to delete or deactivate your Instagram account, depending on whether you want a permanent break or a temporary one.

Deleting vs. Deactivating

• Deleting: This permanently removes your account and all its content (photos, videos, likes, comments, etc.). You cannot recover it after 30 days.
• Deactivating: This temporarily hides your account. You can reactivate it anytime within 30 days by logging back in.

Deleting Your Instagram Account

Mobile (Android or iOS):

1. Open the Instagram app and go to your profile.
2. Tap the hamburger menu (three lines) and navigate to Account Center > Personal Details.
3. Select Account Ownership and Control > Deactivation or Deletion.
4. Choose the account you want to delete and tap Delete Account > Continue.
5. Select a reason for deletion, enter your password, and follow on-screen instructions.

PC or Laptop:

Method 1:

1. Go to https://help.instagram.com/370452623149242 in your browser.
2. Choose a reason from the menu and re-enter your password.
3. Click Delete to permanently remove your account.

Method 2:

1. Go to instagram.com and log in to your account.
2. Click the profile picture icon (bottom right) and select Accounts Center.
3. Navigate to Personal Details > Account Ownership and Control > Deactivation or Deletion.
4. Select the account and tap Delete Account on the next screen.
5. Enter your password and follow prompts to delete.

Deactivating Your Instagram Account

Mobile (Android or iOS):

1. Open the Instagram app and go to your profile.
2. Tap the hamburger menu and navigate to Account Center > Personal Details.
3. Select Account Ownership and Control > Deactivation or Deletion.
4. Choose the account you want to deactivate and tap Deactivate Account.
5. Enter your password and follow on-screen instructions.

PC or Laptop:

1. Go to instagram.com and log in to your account.
2. Click the profile picture icon (bottom right) and select Accounts Center.
3. Navigate to Personal Details > Account Ownership and Control > Deactivation or Deletion.
4. Select the account and click Deactivate Account.
5. Enter your password and follow prompts to deactivate.

Reactivating Your Instagram Account

If you change your mind within 30 days of deleting or deactivating your account, simply log in to the Instagram app with your username and password. Your account will be reactivated.