How to Delete Your Instagram Account | Meta AI – A Step-by-Step Guide (2025)
Are you considering taking a break from social media or permanently removing your Instagram presence? Whether you’re looking to improve digital well-being or simply no longer use the platform, knowing how to delete your Instagram account is essential. In this step-by-step guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about deleting your Instagram account in 2025.
Why Delete Your Instagram Account?
There are many reasons people choose to delete their Instagram accounts:
- Privacy concerns
- Reducing screen time
- Avoiding distractions
- Data security
- Mental health awareness
- Whatever your reason, Instagram gives users two options: deactivating temporarily or deleting permanently.
Temporary Deactivation vs. Permanent Deletion
Before you proceed, it’s important to know the difference:
Temporarily Deactivate Instagram: Your profile, photos, likes, and comments will be hidden until you log in again. This is a good option if you’re planning to return in the future.
Permanently Delete Instagram: Your profile, posts, followers, messages, and all data will be erased forever with no recovery option.
Step-by-Step Guide to Delete Your Instagram Account Permanently
Follow these steps to permanently delete your Instagram account:
Step 1: Backup Your Instagram Data
Before deleting your account, you may want to save your photos, videos, and other data. To download your data:
1. Open the Instagram app or website.
2. Go to Settings > Your Activity > Download Your Information.
3. Enter your email and password.
4. Instagram will send a download link to your email within 48 hours.
Step 2: Visit the Instagram Account Deletion Page
You can’t delete your account from the app directly. Instead:
1. Visit the official Delete Your Account page from a browser (mobile or desktop).
2. Log in if you’re not already signed in.
Step 3: Choose a Reason for Leaving
Instagram will ask you to select a reason for deleting your account from a drop-down menu such as:
- Privacy concerns
- Too busy/distracted
- Created a second account
- Can’t find people to follow
- Other
- Select the reason and re-enter your password.
Step 4: Confirm Account Deletion
Once you confirm, your account will be scheduled for permanent deletion. Instagram usually gives a 30-day grace period. During this time, you can log back in if you change your mind.
After 30 days, your account and all associated content will be permanently removed.
Alternative: How to Temporarily Deactivate Your Instagram Account
If you’re unsure about deleting your account forever:
1. Visit Instagram on a browser.
2. Go to your profile and click Edit Profile.
3. Scroll down and click Temporarily disable my account.
4. Choose a reason and re-enter your password.
5. Click Temporarily Disable Account.
Use Meta AI for various AI features in Instagram too.