Threads, like many social media platforms, can sometimes be overwhelming, whether due to negative content, privacy concerns, or simply the noise of constant updates. No longer want to be on Threads or take a break? Here’s how to deactivate or delete your Threads account to step away, whether temporarily or permanently.
Tip: If you’re quitting Threads out of boredom, here’s a simple guide on how to find and follow your Instagram friends on Threads.
Table of Contents
Deactivating vs Deleting Threads: Key Differences
Before you jump to the deactivation or deletion process, you should know the key difference between deactivating and deleting a Threads account. Here’s a table summarizing the info for you:
| Feature | Deactivating Account | Deleting Account |
|---|---|---|
| Account Recovery | Can be reactivated anytime by logging in. | Cannot be recovered after 30-day grace period. |
| Data Loss | No data loss; everything will return when you log in back. | Permanent data loss after 30 days. |
| Profile Visibility | Hidden until reactivated. | No profile; appears as “Deleted User.” |
| Impact on Followers | Followers are retained. | All followers are permanently lost. |
| Instagram Account | Unaffected. | Unaffected after the recent update. |
| Username Availability | Reserved for your use. | Available for others after 30 days. |
Backup and Download Threads Account’s Data Before Deletion
As we mentioned earlier, deleting the Threads account is an irreversible action and it will permanently delete all your data associated with your Threads account. Therefore, it is better to take a backup of your data in case of unforeseen circumstances. Here’s how to do it:
- Open the Threads app and tap your profile icon in the bottom-right corner.
- Tap the menu icon (two horizontal lines) in the top-right corner.
- Select Account and tap the Download your information link.
- It opens Download page on Instagram account settings, over here select Download or Transfer Information
- You now have two options — you can either download the complete copy of your profile or manually select the types of information you want to download. In this example, we are going with the Select types of information option.
- Select the information types you want to download and then tap Next.
- Then select Download to device, select the format, and click on Create files.
Meta will collect all the requested data and will provide you with the option to download. However, it can take hours to even days depending on the data you have. Once available, you will get a notification, tap on it and download the data.
Note 1: Since the Threads account is associated with your Instagram account, it will also back up your Instagram data.
Note 2: You will only have four days to download your backup file starting from the day you request it. After that, the file will be permanently deleted from their servers.
How to Deactivate or Delete Your Threads Account
Now that you know the implications, here’s how you can delete or deactivate your Threads profile:
- Open the Threads app and tap your profile icon in the bottom-right corner.
- Tap the menu icon (two horizontal lines) in the top-right corner.
- Select Account and select Deactivate or delete profile.
- There, you will find options to either Deactivate or Delete your profile.
- Follow the prompts and enter your password for confirmation.
How to Restore a Deactivated or Deleted Threads Account
If you have only deactivated your Threads account, you can easily restore it by just logging in with your Instagram account anytime.
However, if you have deleted it, you only have 30 days grace period to get back your account. In this grace period, you can login with your account and cancel the deletion process. But once the grace period is over, you cannot get back your account.
When Should You Deactivate or Delete Your Threads Account
There can be many reasons why you might want to deactivate or delete your Threads account:
- You’re feeling overwhelmed by social media.
- Too many social media accounts.
- It is negatively impacting your mental health.
- You want to focus on studies, career, or professional goals.
- You’re concerned about the privacy and security of your data.
- You’ve gotten bored with it and you no longer feel like staying on this platform.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed or just need a break, deactivating or deleting your Threads account can help you take back control. Remember, you can always come back later if you deactivate whereas it is not possible once you have deleted your account.
