How to Permanently Delete Your Instagram Account
Sometimes you need to **delete an Instagram account** — for privacy, digital detox, or simply to start fresh with a new profile. Deletion can be **permanent or temporary**, with the option to reactivate your account later if you change your mind.
Before permanently deleting, prepare properly: **back up your photos, videos and important data**. Once the account is gone, that information cannot be recovered. This guide walks you through each step to delete an Instagram account without mistakes.
Key takeaways
- You can delete an Instagram account permanently or deactivate it temporarily.
- Back up your data before deletion — photos, videos and profile information cannot be recovered afterwards.
- Follow each step carefully to avoid mistakes or complications.
Preparations before deleting an Instagram account
Before deleting anything, take time to back up your data and consider temporary deactivation if you are still unsure.
Backing up your data
Before deleting your Instagram account, download a copy of your data: photos, videos and personal information you want to keep. Instagram offers a data download tool to export and save your information on your device. Once the account is deleted, this data cannot be recovered.
Consider temporarily deactivating your account
If you might return to Instagram later, temporary deactivation may be a better choice: your account is paused and can be reactivated. Log in on the website, open Settings, go to Settings and privacy > Accounts Center, choose Deactivate account, select a reason, enter your password and confirm. Backing up and deactivating keeps options open if you change your mind.
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Log in to your Instagram account on the website.
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Go to your profile and tap the gear icon to open Settings.
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Open Settings and privacy.
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Tap Accounts Center, then choose Download your information.
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Enter your email address and password, then tap Request download.
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For temporary deactivation: same path to Accounts Center, then Deactivate account.
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Select a reason, enter your password and confirm with Deactivate account.
Steps to permanently delete an Instagram account
To permanently delete an Instagram account from a computer, follow the steps below. Note: this action is irreversible — photos, videos, comments and followers will be lost.
Via a web browser
Permanent deletion is done through a web browser (desktop or mobile). The Instagram app alone is not enough for this procedure.
Using the Instagram mobile app
On Android and iOS, the mobile app does not let you delete an account directly. Use a mobile web browser and follow the steps below.
What to do after deleting your account
After permanent deletion: remove the mobile app from your phone or tablet, let your contacts know if needed, and create a new account with a different email if you want to return. Note: a deleted account cannot be reactivated. For more details, see Instagram's official help centre.
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Log in to your Instagram account in a web browser.
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Open the Delete your account page.
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Select the reason you want to delete your account.
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Enter your password to verify your identity.
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Click Permanently delete my account.
Keep your Instagram messages by printing them with MonLivreSMS
Want to go further? You can download your Instagram photos — and your private chats with someone close. To download your Instagram messages, start here. Once exported, why not turn them into a beautiful printed book? That is what MonLivreSMS offers: turn chats from Instagram, WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, Snapchat, Telegram and more into a custom keepsake book. A unique, original gift!
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Frequently asked questions
How do I permanently delete my Instagram account from a phone?
Open Instagram, go to Settings and privacy > Accounts Center > Personal information > Account ownership and control > Account deletion, then follow the on-screen steps. Deleting via a web browser remains the most reliable method.
What are the steps to delete an Instagram account from a computer?
Log in at instagram.com, open the Delete your account page, select a reason, enter your password and confirm. This action is irreversible.
Can I delete an Instagram account from an iPhone?
Yes — the process is the same on iPhone and Android via Settings > Accounts Center. You can also use a mobile browser to reach the permanent deletion page.
How do I temporarily deactivate my account without deleting it?
Log in from a web browser (not the app), open Settings and privacy > Accounts Center > Deactivate account, choose a reason and confirm with your password. Reactivate by logging back in.
Why am I having trouble deleting my account and how can I fix it?
Make sure you use an up-to-date browser, clear cache and cookies, or try another browser or device. Confirm you are logged into the correct account.
How do I delete one account when I manage several Instagram profiles?
Log into the account you want to remove, then follow the deletion procedure. Repeat for each account — you must sign in to each profile individually.
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