How to Delete Your Instagram [Easy Guide]

By jrumberger@hubspot.com (Jana Rumberger)

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Instagram isn’t for everybody. If the latest changes to Instagram aren’t what you’re looking for, this step-by-step process for how to delete your Instagram account is for you.

Once you click that button, your profile, photos, videos, comments, likes, and followers will all be permanently removed from the app.

Before you go ahead, keep in mind that deleting your account can’t be undone. Be sure to back up your account data, write personal notes to engaged followers, and update your analytics. If you’re deleting a business Instagram account, you may want to make an archive for the SEC or FINRA, just in case.

Now, if you’re ready, start following these simple instructions, or jump to the section you’re looking for below:

How to Delete Your Instagram on an iPhone
How to Delete Instagram Permanently on Android
How to Delete Your Instagram Profile on a Desktop Computer
How to Deactivate Your Instagram

1. Log on to your Instagram app on your iPhone.

2. Go to your account, then tap the menu in the upper left-hand corner of your profile.

3. Head to ‘Settings’ > ‘Account.’

4. Scroll down the list of options, and select ‘Delete account.’

5. This section includes two choices from Instagram. First, you can deactivate your account. If you deactivate, Instagram will hide your account but you can reactivate it whenever you wish. More on this below.

If you still want to delete your Instagram account, scroll past the ‘Deactivate account’ button and click ‘Delete account.’

6. A pop-up will appear, giving you a deadline for how long you have to reactivate your account if you change your mind after deletion. Click ‘Continue deleting account.’

7. This section starts with a drop-down menu for ‘Why do you want to delete your account?’ Select the best option.

Once you choose, Instagram will offer other recommendations related to your choice. For example, if your choice is ‘Too busy/too distracting,’ instructions to temporarily remove the app from your phone will appear.

8. Keep scrolling, then re-enter your password.

9. Click the ‘Delete’ button.

Once you complete this step, your account will no longer be available on Instagram. You have 30 days to reactivate it if you change your mind. After that, your account is permanently deleted.