How to Delete Your Instagram Account Permanently

Instagram has grown into one of the world’s most popular social media platforms, with billions of users sharing photos, stories, and reels every day. While the app offers entertainment, social connection, and even career opportunities, not everyone wants to stay plugged into it forever. Some people worry about privacy, others want to reduce screen time, and many simply feel the need for a fresh start.

If you’re thinking about leaving Instagram behind, you have two choices: temporarily deactivate your account or permanently delete it. Deactivating hides your profile until you log back in, while deleting it wipes your profile, posts, followers, and messages permanently.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of deleting your Instagram account permanently in 2025, explain the consequences, and provide tips for preparing before you take the plunge.

Why People Delete Their Instagram Accounts

Before diving into the “how,” let’s briefly look at the “why.” Common reasons include:

Privacy concerns – Instagram collects and shares data with its parent company, Meta.
Mental health – Social media can contribute to anxiety, comparison, and reduced self-esteem.
Time management – Many users find themselves spending hours scrolling and want to reclaim that time.
Digital detox – Some prefer living without the constant buzz of social media notifications.
Security – Concerns about hacking, scams, and misuse of personal information.

Whatever your reason, knowing how to properly delete your account ensures your digital footprint is reduced and your information is not left floating online.

Step 1: Understand the Difference Between Deactivation and Deletion

Instagram offers two options if you want to leave the platform:

Deactivate (Temporary):
- Your profile, photos, and likes are hidden.
- You can reactivate by logging back in.
- Best if you’re not sure about leaving permanently.
Delete (Permanent):
- Your profile, photos, videos, comments, followers, and likes are permanently removed.
- You cannot recover the account once deleted.
- You’ll need to create a new account if you ever want to return.

If you’re 100% sure you want to say goodbye, proceed with deletion.

Step 2: Back Up Your Data

Once your Instagram account is deleted, all your photos, stories, reels, and messages are gone forever. If you want to keep a copy of your memories, download your data first.

Here’s how:

Open the Instagram app.
Go to your profile and tap the three-line menu (☰).
Select Settings and Privacy → Account Center → Your Information and Permissions.
Choose Download Your Information.
Request a copy of your data (you’ll get an email with a download link).

This may take up to 48 hours, so plan ahead before deleting.

Step 3: Log in Through a Browser

You can’t delete your Instagram account directly through the app. Instead, you must use a web browser (on your phone or computer).

Go to the Delete Your Account page.
Log in with your Instagram username and password.
If you manage multiple accounts, be sure you’re logged into the one you want to delete.

Step 4: Choose a Reason for Deletion

Instagram will ask why you want to delete your account. Options may include:

Too busy/too distracting
Privacy concerns
Trouble getting started
Want to remove something
Created a second account

You must select a reason to proceed. Once chosen, Instagram will prompt you to re-enter your password.

Step 5: Permanently Delete Your Account

After confirming, click Delete [Your Username].

Your account enters a 30-day grace period.
During this time, your profile and content are hidden but not yet deleted.
If you change your mind, you can log back in to cancel deletion.

After 30 days, your account and all its content will be permanently removed.

What Happens After Deletion?

Here’s what you should know once you’ve deleted your account:

All data is gone: Posts, followers, and messages are erased.
Username may become available: Someone else could eventually claim it.
Third-party logins stop working: If you used Instagram to log into apps or websites, update those login details first.
Messages remain for others: Direct messages you sent to others may remain in their inbox, even after deletion.

Alternative: Deactivate Your Account Instead

If you’re not ready to say goodbye forever, consider deactivation.

To deactivate your account:

Log in on a browser (not the app).
Go to Profile → Edit Profile.
Select Temporarily Disable My Account.
Choose a reason and re-enter your password.

Your profile disappears from Instagram until you log in again. This is a good option if you just want a break without losing everything.

Tips Before Deleting Your Account

Inform close contacts: If friends or followers rely on your DMs, let them know before disappearing.
Unlink apps: Disconnect any third-party apps or services tied to Instagram login.
Double-check accounts: Many users manage multiple Instagram profiles—make sure you delete the right one.
Consider a second account: If privacy is your concern, you might create a smaller, private account for trusted friends instead of quitting entirely.

Pros and Cons of Deleting Instagram

Pros

Greater privacy and data control.
Reduced screen time and mental health benefits.
Freedom from constant notifications.
Focus on real-life connections.

Cons

Losing your digital photo archive (unless you download it).
Cutting ties with online communities and friends.
Potential loss of business opportunities if you use Instagram professionally.

Life After Instagram

Many people who delete Instagram report:

Improved focus and productivity.
Better sleep without late-night scrolling.
Stronger real-world relationships.
Less comparison and pressure to present a “perfect” life.

Of course, it’s a personal choice—some find life better without social media, while others miss the connection. You can always test by deactivating before making it permanent.

Final Thoughts

Deleting your Instagram account permanently is a big decision, but for many, it brings a sense of freedom, privacy, and balance. By backing up your data, understanding the 30-day grace period, and weighing the pros and cons, you can make the choice that’s right for you.

Remember: Instagram is just one platform. If you choose to step away, countless other ways exist to connect, share, and build relationships online—or better yet, offline.

So, if you’re ready, follow the steps above, take control of your digital presence, and move forward with a fresh start.