In July 2023, Meta launched Threads, a social media app designed to rival Twitter (now X). Powered by Instagram, it quickly gained traction due to its familiar interface and tight integration with Meta’s ecosystem. However, some users discovered that Threads may not be for them—either due to content preferences, privacy concerns, or the inability to manage yet another social app. If you’re among those considering signing off from Threads, you may be wondering: how do you actually delete your Threads account?
TL;DR (Too Long, Didn’t Read)
If you want to delete your Threads account, you must also delete your connected Instagram account due to how they are linked. However, you can deactivate your Threads profile without taking such a drastic step. Deactivation hides your profile and content without erasing your Instagram presence. Meta has promised future updates to allow more separation between platforms, but for now, complete deletion comes at a high cost.
Why Would You Want to Delete Threads?
Different reasons lead people to delete or step away from a social media platform. These might include:
- Privacy concerns: Threads collects a considerable amount of user data, including location, usage habits, and more.
- Overlapping platforms: With Instagram, Facebook, and Threads offering similar features, users may feel overwhelmed or see redundancy.
- Content and audience: Some people may find the content less engaging or too curated compared to other platforms.
- Mental health and digital detox: Taking breaks or quitting social media altogether is becoming more common for personal well-being.
Whatever your reason, it’s essential to understand what happens when you try to delete Threads—and what your options are.
The Threads-Instagram Connection Explained
Threads is not a standalone platform; it’s an extension of Instagram. When you create a Threads account, it uses your Instagram credentials and links the two profiles together. That’s why:
- You don’t need a separate login for Threads—it’s based on your Instagram account.
- Your username and bio are automatically pulled from Instagram (with some customization options).
- When you try to delete Threads, the app will tell you that doing so deletes your Instagram account too.
This linkage is at the heart of why users get frustrated when trying to leave Threads permanently. Meta has stated they’re working on decoupling the services, but for now, that’s how the system operates.
Option 1: Deactivate Your Threads Account
If you’re not ready to lose your Instagram account but want to take a break from Threads, deactivation is your best bet. Deactivating puts your Threads profile in sleep mode—it becomes invisible, but you can return whenever you’d like.
How to Deactivate Threads
- Open the Threads app on your device.
- Tap your profile icon in the bottom right.
- Tap the menu (three dots or lines) in the top right corner.
- Select Account from the settings menu.
- Choose Deactivate Profile.
- Confirm your decision when prompted.
This will remove your Threads posts, likes, and replies from public view, though nothing is permanently deleted. You can reactivate your profile later by simply logging back in.
Option 2: Delete Threads Permanently (And Instagram)
If you decide that a social media detox is in order and want to wipe everything—including Threads and Instagram—you can proceed with deletion. But be warned: everything associated with your Instagram account will also be deleted, including photos, DMs, followers, and likes across both platforms.
Steps to Delete Threads via Instagram
Since Threads can’t be deleted independently (as of now), here’s how to delete your entire Meta footprint:
- Open the Instagram app.
- Tap your profile picture in the bottom right.
- Enter the menu (three-line icon) in the top-right corner.
- Go to Settings & Privacy.
- Select Accounts Center → Personal Details.
- Tap Account Ownership and Control.
- Choose Deactivation or Deletion.
- Select the Instagram account linked to Threads.
- Choose Delete Account instead of Deactivate.
- Follow the final prompts and info screens to confirm deletion.
Reminder: Deleting your Instagram account also deletes your Threads profile—completely and permanently. Make sure to back up any data you want to save before proceeding.
Can You Just Delete the Threads App?
Yes, but this doesn’t affect your account. Deleting the app from your phone merely removes your access point. Your profile, posts, and data remain active on the platform. It’s similar to logging out—it’s not a permanent solution if your goal is deletion or deactivation.
How Data Is Handled Post-Deactivation or Deletion
Here’s what happens to your data depending on your approach:
- Deactivation: Your profile is hidden, but data remains stored on Meta’s servers. Nothing is erased.
- Deletion: Your data is permanently removed after a 30-day grace period. Meta holds on to your data during that window, in case you change your mind.
It’s also important to review your data privacy settings through your Meta account’s Privacy Center to make sure no unnecessary data is being shared or tracked in the meantime.
Is There a Way to Delete Threads Without Losing Instagram?
As of the latest updates, no, you cannot delete your Threads account without also deleting Instagram. Meta’s current platform design ties these two services tightly together. However, in late 2023, they acknowledged the issue and expressed intentions to give users more account control in future versions of the app. So this may change soon.
Alternative Steps If You’re Unsure About Deletion
If full deletion feels too extreme, consider these alternatives:
- Deactivate Threads only to take a break.
- Mute or unfollow accounts you don’t want to see.
- Set your Threads profile to private to control who interacts with you.
- Limit usage through screen time or focus settings on your device.
Sometimes, a break can be just as effective as a clean slate when you’re evaluating social media’s role in your life.
Final Thoughts
Threads may be a flashy new addition to the social media landscape, but it’s not ideal for everyone. Deactivation gives users a way to escape without sacrificing their broader digital identity, especially since deletion requires giving up your Instagram presence altogether. Until better separation tools roll out, it’s essential to weigh your options carefully and choose the path that best aligns with your personal needs and privacy values.
Whatever you decide, be informed and proactive. Managing your digital footprint is an empowering part of owning your online experience.
Stay tuned for updates from Meta—they might soon introduce a more flexible and user-friendly way to unlink Threads from Instagram without drastic consequences.
