Step-by-step infographic showing how to delete Instagram account on iPhone, Android, and PC with backup tips – 2026 SMMEuro Guide

How to Delete Instagram Account (2026 Guide) – Step-by-Step for iPhone, Android & PC

Updated: January 2026

Instagram is one of the most popular social platforms worldwide — but not everyone wants to stay connected forever.
Whether you’re taking a digital break, protecting your privacy, or closing a business account, deleting your Instagram account in 2026 is simple.

This comprehensive guide by SMMEuro explains how to delete or deactivate your Instagram account permanently or temporarily — with step-by-step instructions for iPhone, Android, and desktop users.

Before You Delete – Back Up Your Instagram Data

Before deleting your account, it’s important to save your photos, messages, and insights — especially if you manage a brand or business page.

Follow these quick steps to download your Instagram data:

Go to your profile and tap the three lines in the top right.

  1. Select “Your Activity.”
  2. Scroll down and tap “Download Your Information.”
  3. Enter your email address and confirm with your password.
  4. Tap “Done” — Instagram will email your data file within 24 hours.

💡 Pro tip from SMMEuro: Always back up analytics, followers list, and campaign metrics before deleting a business account.

How to Permanently Delete Your Instagram Account

On iPhone (iOS)

Open the Instagram app on your iPhone.

  1. Go to your profile → tap the menu icon (☰) → Settings.
  2. Select Account → Delete Account.
  3. Choose Delete Account Permanently.
  4. Answer the question “Why are you deleting your account?”
  5. Re-enter your password and tap Delete.

🤖 On Android

Unlike iOS, the Android Instagram app doesn’t offer a direct delete option.
You’ll need to use your browser instead.

Open Chrome or your mobile browser.

  1. Go to: instagram.com/accounts/remove/request/permanent/
  2. Log in and choose a reason for deletion.
  3. Re-enter your password.
  4. Tap Delete Account.

💻 On Desktop or Laptop

Go to Instagram.com.

  1. Click your profile icon → Settings.
  2. Choose See More in Accounts Center.
  3. Under Account Ownership and Control, click Deactivation or Deletion.
  4. Select the account → Delete Account Permanently.
  5. Confirm your reason and password, then delete.

⏸️ How to Temporarily Deactivate Your Instagram Account

If you just need a break from social media, you can deactivate instead of deleting.
When deactivated, your profile, posts, and followers stay hidden until you log back in.

📱On Mobile

Open Instagram app → Profile → ☰ Menu → Settings and Privacy.

  1. Tap Account Ownership and Control.
  2. Select the account you want to deactivate.
  3. Choose Deactivate Account → Enter your password → Confirm.

💻 On Desktop

Go to Instagram.com.

  1. Click your profile picture → Settings.
  2. Choose See More in Accounts Center.
  3. Click Account Ownership and Control.
  4. Choose Deactivate Account, select duration (temporary), and confirm.

💡 Note: You can reactivate anytime by logging back in.

💬 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

❓ Does disabling my Instagram account delete my data?

No. When you disable your account temporarily, Instagram keeps your data safe.
Your photos and messages return once you log in again.

❓ Can I recover a permanently deleted account?

Flat text:
No. Once deleted, your data and username are permanently removed and cannot be restored.

❓ How long does it take for deletion to complete?

Flat text:
Instagram holds your deletion request for 30 days, during which your account remains invisible. After that, all data is permanently erased.

❓ Can I delete a business or creator account the same way?

Flat text:
Yes. The process is identical, but always back up analytics and campaign data before deletion.

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