How to Delete Instagram Account 2025 – Step-by-Step Complete Guide
In 2025, Instagram remains one of the most popular social media platforms globally, but sometimes users decide to step away — whether for privacy reasons, digital detox, or a complete shift away from social media. Deleting your Instagram account is not as complicated as it may seem, but it requires careful steps. In this comprehensive 2025 guide, we explain how to delete Instagram account permanently, how to temporarily deactivate it, and what happens to your data afterward.
Why You Might Want to Delete Instagram Account
Before we get into the detailed steps, let’s understand why millions of users are choosing to delete or deactivate Instagram accounts in 2025.
- Privacy Concerns: With increased data tracking and AI-driven advertising, users are more aware of how much personal information Instagram holds.
- Mental Health: Social media burnout, anxiety, and constant comparison are key reasons people take a digital detox.
- Distraction-Free Life: Many professionals delete their accounts to improve focus and productivity.
- Multiple Accounts Management: Users managing multiple accounts may prefer to delete old or inactive ones.
Whatever your reason, follow this complete guide to ensure your account is deleted safely and permanently.
How to Delete Instagram Account Permanently (2025 Updated Method)
Deleting your Instagram account permanently means all your photos, videos, comments, followers, and likes will be removed forever. Once deleted, you cannot recover the data or username. Here’s how to do it:
Step 1: Go to Instagram’s Account Deletion Page
You cannot delete your Instagram account directly from the mobile app.
Instead, visit the official Delete Instagram Account page through a web browser (mobile or desktop).
Step 2: Log in to Your Account
Enter your username and password to access your account.
If you have two-factor authentication enabled, complete the verification.
Step 3: Choose a Reason for Deleting
Instagram will ask “Why do you want to delete your account?”
Select one of the options from the drop-down list such as:
- Too busy/too distracting
- Privacy concerns
- Want to remove something
- Created a second account
After selecting a reason, re-enter your password.
Step 4: Confirm and Delete
Click on the “Delete [Username]” button.
Your account will be deactivated for 30 days before permanent deletion.
If you change your mind, simply log back in within those 30 days to restore it.
After that, your account and data are permanently deleted.
How to Temporarily Disable Instagram Account in 2025
If you’re not ready to delete your account forever, you can temporarily disable it. This hides your profile, photos, comments, and likes until you reactivate it by logging back in.
Steps to Temporarily Disable Your Account:
- Open Instagram in a browser and log into your account.
- Click your profile picture → go to Profile → select Edit Profile.
- Scroll down and click “Temporarily disable my account.”
- Choose a reason and re-enter your password.
- Click Temporarily Disable Account.
Your profile will be hidden until you decide to log back in. This is a great option for users who need a short social media break.
What Happens When You Delete Your Instagram Account
When you delete your Instagram account, here’s what happens:
- All photos, videos, and stories are permanently deleted.
- Comments, followers, and messages are erased.
- You lose your username, and it may not be available again.
- If your Instagram was linked to Facebook or Meta Accounts Center, those connections are also removed.
- Your direct messages will disappear for both you and the recipient.
Instagram gives a 30-day grace period after you initiate deletion. After that, the process is irreversible.
How to Download Your Instagram Data Before Deletion
Before deleting your account, you may want to save your photos, videos, and chat history. Here’s how to download your data safely:
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Open the Instagram app or browser and go to your profile.
- Tap the three lines (☰) → Select Your Activity → Download Your Information.
- Enter your email address and request download.
- Instagram will email you a link to download your data (it may take up to 48 hours).
This ensures you keep a personal backup before permanent deletion.
Deleting Instagram Account from the Mobile App (2025 Update)
Previously, deleting an Instagram account was only possible via browser, but in 2025, the mobile app now supports direct deletion through the Accounts Center.
Steps to Delete from Mobile App:
- Open the Instagram app.
- Go to Profile → Settings → Accounts Center.
- Select Personal Details → Account Ownership and Control.
- Tap Deactivation or Deletion.
- Choose your Instagram account and select Delete Account.
- Confirm deletion and enter your password.
Your account will follow the same 30-day waiting period before permanent deletion.
Can You Recover a Deleted Instagram Account in 2025?
Unfortunately, no. Once the 30-day deletion period ends, Instagram permanently erases all your data, and there is no official recovery method.
If you accidentally deleted your account and want to use Instagram again, you’ll need to create a new account with a different email or username.
Tips Before Deleting Your Instagram Account
Before you proceed, consider these important tips:
- Backup your media: Download photos, reels, and DMs.
- Notify followers: Inform close contacts before deleting your account.
- Check linked services: Remove Instagram links from third-party apps.
- Reconsider temporary deactivation: If unsure, disabling might be better than deleting.
Deleting your Instagram account is a big decision, so think through your options carefully.
FAQs – Delete Instagram Account 2025
1. Can I delete my Instagram without password?
No, you must log in using your username and password. If you forgot your password, use Forgot Password on the login screen.
2. How long does Instagram take to delete my account?
Instagram waits 30 days after your deletion request. After that, your data is permanently deleted.
3. Can I delete Instagram from Facebook Account Center?
Yes. If your Instagram is connected to Facebook’s Accounts Center, you can delete it directly from there.
4. What happens to my messages after deletion?
All direct messages are permanently removed and will no longer be visible to recipients.
5. Can I use the same email for a new account?
Yes, after deletion is complete, your email becomes free to use for a new Instagram account.
Conclusion
Deleting your Instagram account in 2025 is simple yet final. Whether you choose to permanently delete or temporarily disable your account, Instagram gives you full control over your digital presence. Remember to download your data and consider your options carefully before proceeding.
If you value your privacy and mental well-being, taking this step might be the best digital decision you make this year.