How to delete or deactivate an Instagram account: Step-by-step guide

In the modern digital era, managing our online presence is important, but sometimes, parting ways with a social media platform becomes a necessity. Instagram stands out as one of the most widely used social media platforms, drawing countless users into the world of Reels.

If you’ve decided to say goodbye to your Instagram account, don’t worry—it’s easier than you think. Deleting your Instagram account can be done in a few easy steps. This step-by-step guide will show you exactly how to delete or deactivate your Instagram account.

Deleting or deactivating your account requires careful consideration. However, it’s a good choice when you want to take a break and prioritize your well-being. Without wasting any time, let’s delve into the step-by-step guide on how to delete or deactivate an Instagram account.

How to delete or deactivate an Instagram account

How to delete or deactivate an Instagram account from mobile app

Step 1: Open the Instagram app on your Android or iOS device.

Step 2: Tap your profile picture present at the bottom right to go to your profile.

Step 3: Now, tap the three horizontal lines present at the top right corner.

Step 4: Select the Settings and privacy option.

Step 5: Choose the Accounts Centre option.

Step 6. Tap Personal details.

Step 7: Select the Account ownership and control option.

Step 8: Tap Deactivation or deletion.

Step 9: Now, you have to select the account you’d like to permanently delete or temporarily deactivate.

Step 10. Now choose what you want to do with your account– Delete or Deactivate– and tap Continue.

Also read: Instagram now lets you download Reels from public accounts: Here’s how

How to delete or deactivate an Instagram account from computer

Step 1: Open Instagram on any web browser. Or click here.

Step 2: Login into your Instagram account.

Step 3: Once your account is opened, click on the three horizontal lines present at the bottom left corner.

Step 3: Click on Settings.

Step 4: Click Accounts Centre, then select the Personal details option.

Step 5: Click Account ownership and control.

Step 6: Select Deactivation or deletion.

Step 7: Select the account you want to delete or deactivate.

Step 8: Now choose what you want to do with your account– Delete or Deactivate– and tap Continue.

Also read: Instagram reveals India Gen Z’s 5 trends for 2024: From memes to fintech

Consequences of deleting or deactivating an Instagram account

Consequences of deactivating an Instagram account

When you temporarily deactivate your Instagram account, your profile, photos, comments, and likes will be hidden until you reactivate it by logging back in.

Consequences of deleting an Instagram account

After your account is deleted, you can sign up again with the same username or add that username to another account as long as it hasn’t been taken by a new person on Instagram.

However, it’s important to note that when you delete your Instagram account, your profile, photos, videos, comments, likes and followers will also be permanently deleted. Even if you create a new Instagram account with the same username in the future, you won’t have the previous followers count, photos, likes, etc.

If you just want to take a break from Instagram, it is advised to deactivate your account instead of permanently deleting it.

Timeline for permanent deletion of Instagram Accounts

If you regret your decision to permanently delete your account, Instagram allows you to cancel the deletion process at any time within 30 days. This can be done through the Accounts Centre or by simply logging back into your Instagram account. 

After the 30-day duration, your account and all its data will be irreversibly deleted from Instagram.