How to Remove Instagram Account?

Instagram might be fun and engaging, but there comes a time when you just want to cut ties—maybe it’s for digital detox, privacy concerns, or simply moving on. Whatever your reason, deleting or deactivating your Instagram account isn’t as straightforward as you might think. Meta (Instagram’s parent company) has strategically buried this option deep within settings. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with this ultimate guide.

We’ll walk you through how to remove an Instagram account permanently or temporarily, explore the implications of both options, and answer common questions users often have.

Understanding the Difference: Delete vs. Deactivate Your Instagram Account

Before proceeding, it’s essential to know the difference between permanently deleting and temporarily deactivating your Instagram account:

• Deleting Your Instagram Account: This permanently erases all your data—photos, videos, followers, likes, messages—everything. You won’t be able to recover your account after deletion.
• Deactivating Your Instagram Account: This temporarily hides your profile, but your data remains intact. You can log back in anytime to restore your account.

Now, let’s dive into the step-by-step process for both options.

How to Deactivate Instagram Account (Temporary Removal)

If you want to take a break from Instagram but don’t want to lose everything permanently, follow these steps:

Step 1: Log Into Instagram on a Browser

You can’t deactivate your account from the Instagram app. You need to use a web browser (desktop or mobile) to proceed.

1. Open Instagram.com and log into your account.
2. Click on your profile picture (top-right corner) and select Profile.
3. Click on Edit Profile.

Step 2: Find the ‘Temporarily Disable My Account’ Option

1. Scroll down and look for the option ‘Temporarily disable my account’ (bottom-right corner).
2. Instagram will ask why you’re deactivating—choose an option from the dropdown menu.
3. Re-enter your password to confirm.
4. Click ‘Temporarily Disable Account’.

Done! Your profile will now be hidden until you log back in.

For more details, you can also check Instagram’s Help Center.

How to Delete Instagram Account Permanently

If you’re sure you want to permanently remove your Instagram account, follow these steps carefully. Once deleted, there’s no going back.

Step 1: Go to the Instagram Account Deletion Page

This option isn’t available directly in the app, so you’ll need a browser.

1. Visit the Instagram Account Deletion Page.
2. Log into your account if you haven’t already.

Step 2: Select a Reason for Deletion

1. Instagram will ask you why you’re deleting your account.
2. Select an appropriate reason from the dropdown list.
3. Re-enter your password to verify your identity.

Step 3: Permanently Delete the Account

1. Click ‘Delete Account’.
2. Instagram will notify you that your data will be erased permanently after 30 days (in case you change your mind).

Your account is now scheduled for deletion.

Pro Tip: If you want to remove your Instagram presence completely, delete the app from your phone after submitting your request.

For further details on data privacy and deletion policies, check Meta’s Privacy Policy.

What Happens After Deleting Instagram?

• Your profile, photos, and videos will be permanently removed.
• You won’t be able to recover anything once the 30-day grace period ends.
• Your username will become available for others to claim (after a certain period).
• Any linked services (e.g., Facebook, WhatsApp) won’t be affected.
• All third-party apps connected to your Instagram will also lose access.

How to Remove an Instagram Account from a Device (Without Deleting It)

If you only want to remove an Instagram account from your phone without deleting it, follow these steps:

On Android & iPhone:

1. Open the Instagram app.
2. Tap your profile picture (bottom-right corner).
3. Tap the three-line menu (top-right corner) > Settings & Privacy.
4. Scroll down and tap Log out.

If you have multiple accounts linked, select the one you want to remove and confirm logout.

FAQs About Removing an Instagram Account

1. Can I recover my account after deleting it?

No, once the 30-day period passes, your account is gone forever.

2. How long does Instagram keep my data after deletion?

Instagram retains data for 30 days before permanent deletion.

3. Can I delete my account without logging in?

No, you must log in to delete your Instagram account.

4. What happens to my DMs when I delete my account?

Your messages disappear, but copies may remain with the recipients.

5. Will my followers be notified if I delete my Instagram account?

No, Instagram does not send notifications when an account is deleted.

6. Can I use the same username after deletion?

Possibly, but Instagram doesn’t guarantee that usernames become available immediately.

7. Can I delete someone else’s Instagram account?

No, unless you have legal authority (e.g., in case of a deceased relative).

8. What if I forgot my password?

Use the ‘Forgot password?’ option on the login page to reset it before deleting.