If you’re ready to step away from social media and delete your Instagram account, it’s important to make sure you don’t lose any precious memories or data beforehand. Deleting Instagram is a big decision, but we’ve got you covered with simple steps and helpful tools to ensure a smooth transition.
Step-by-Step: How to Delete Your Instagram Account
- Log into Instagram on a browser, as account deletion cannot be done via the app.
- Visit the Instagram Account Deletion page and select your reason for leaving.
- After selecting a reason, enter your password and click ‘Permanently delete my account’.
- Done! Your Instagram account will be gone, but make sure to back up all your data first!
Backup Your Photos & Videos Before Deleting
Before you take the plunge, make sure to download all your media. Fortunately, Instagram allows you to request a copy of your data, which can take up to 48 hours to process. Here’s how:
- Go to Settings > Security > Download Data.
- Once you receive the data, consider using an external storage device to keep these memories safe.
External Storage Solutions:
- Seagate Portable 1TB External Hard Drive – A reliable and affordable option for securely storing your photos and videos.
SanDisk 128GB Ultra Dual Drive – Portable and easy to use for transferring files directly from your phone or tablet.
- WD 4TB My Passport Portable External Hard Drive – Ideal for those with large media libraries who need ample storage space.
Cloud Storage Options:
- Amazon Photos – Offers 5 GB of free storage, perfect for saving your Instagram photos and videos.
Additional Tips for Social Media Detox
Deleting Instagram frees up your time and allows you to focus on other areas of life. Here are a few ways to fill the gap left by social media:
- Focus on self-care: Try journaling, reading, or spending more time outdoors to unwind.
- The Great Book of Journaling: How Journal Writing Can Support a Life of Wellness, Creativity, Meaning and Purpose Kindle Edition
- Track your screen time: Use apps to monitor and control how much time you spend online.
- Replace Instagram with something productive: Start a new hobby or sign up for an online course to use your newfound free time more effectively.
- Mix and Match Modern Crochet Blankets: 100 patterned and textured strips for 1000s of unique throws
- ROKR 3D Wooden Puzzle for Adults Mechanical Car Model-DIY Building Vehicle Kits-Brain Teaser Toys-Gift for Men Women Kids on Birthday/Christmas Day (Steam Train Model with Carriage)
Recommended Tools for Backing Up Your Data (Affiliate Links)
If you’re planning to delete your Instagram account, you might want to ensure your photos and videos are safely stored. Here are a few tools that can help:
- Dropbox – Easily store all your photos and documents in one secure place.
- Google Photos – Back up unlimited photos and videos in high quality.
- External Hard Drive – For those who prefer offline storage, consider getting a reliable external drive like this one.
Final Thoughts
Deciding to delete or deactivate your Instagram account is a personal choice that can benefit your mental health, productivity, and privacy. Whether you decide to leave temporarily or permanently, following the steps above will help you take control of your social media usage.
Watch the Video Version 🎥
For a visual guide, check out the step-by-step video on our YouTube channel, where we walk through the process of deleting or deactivating your Instagram account.
Affiliate Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. If you click on these and make a purchase, I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting the site!