To delete Threads permanently, users must select "Delete profile" in the app and verify their identity. The account remains disabled for 30 days, during which the deletion can be canceled by logging in. After that period, it vanishes forever. Deleting Threads doesn't affect the linked Instagram account. Users can't create another Threads account with the same Instagram credentials for 90 days. There's more to this digital disappearing act than meets the eye.

permanently delete threads account

Once there, users can select the "Delete profile" option. This initiates the actual deletion process. The app requires confirmation of the decision, followed by identity verification through login credentials.

Users must review the consequences of deletion and acknowledge that the process takes 30 days to complete. Not a quick fix, obviously. Similar to Instagram deletion process, the account remains disabled during this period.

During this 30-day window, the account remains in limbo. It's recoverable – simply logging in cancels the deletion request. After the 30-day period expires, the account vanishes permanently. Then there's another waiting game. Users must wait 90 days before creating a new Threads account with the same Instagram credentials. Bureaucracy at its finest.

It's essential to understand that deleting Threads doesn't affect the linked Instagram account. They're separate entities in Meta's ecosystem. Similar to how account unlinking works between Facebook and Instagram, Threads users can maintain their Instagram account while completely removing their Threads profile. This new deletion feature was announced by Mosseri in response to user feedback about account management. Once deleted, all Threads information disappears forever. No take-backs.

For those not ready for permanent deletion, alternatives exist. Deactivation offers a temporary break without the finality of deletion. Profiles and content remain hidden during deactivation, and posts can be set to private mode. Individual posts can also be deleted without nuking the entire account.

After deletion, users should consider removing the app from their devices, reviewing connected services, and updating social media links if necessary. Some might want to inform contacts about their digital disappearance.

The process isn't complicated, just tedious. Meta doesn't make escaping their platforms particularly convenient. But for those determined to leave Threads behind, permanent deletion remains an option – just with strings attached.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Recover My Threads Data After Deletion?

Recovery of Threads data depends on timing. Users have 30 days to change their minds—just log in and boom, deletion canceled.

After that? Tough luck. Data's gone permanently. Some bits might linger in anonymized form for analytics or legal requirements.

Meta keeps backups briefly, but they're not accessible to users. And no, contacting support won't help.

Third-party recovery tools? Pretty much useless for this situation.

Will Deleting Threads Affect My Instagram Account?

Deleting Threads won't touch Instagram. Period. The platforms are connected but separate—like conjoined twins with different personalities.

Instagram stays intact—followers, posts, login credentials—all preserved when Threads gets the axe.

Think of it as ditching your annoying cousin while keeping the rest of the family. Your Instagram profile remains untouched.

Meta made sure of that. Delete Threads freely. Instagram won't even notice the loss.

How Long Does the Deletion Process Take?

Deleting a Threads account isn't instant—shocker. The process takes a full 30 days to complete.

During this month-long limbo, the profile becomes invisible to others, but remains recoverable. Just log back in if you change your mind.

After the 30 days? Everything's wiped from Meta's servers. Posts, comments, likes—gone. The account vanishes permanently.

No takesies-backsies after that grace period expires.

Can I Download My Threads Data Before Deleting?

Yes, users can download their Threads data before deleting. The process is straightforward.

Access the profile icon, navigate to "Your Information and Permissions," and select "Download Your Information."

Choose desired data types—posts, comments, profile info, messages—and set a date range. Processing takes up to 14 days. An email notification arrives when ready, with the download link active for 4 days.

Data comes in HTML or JSON format as a ZIP file.

Is There a Way to Temporarily Deactivate Instead?

Yes. Temporary deactivation is available. Users can open Threads, tap the menu icon, select "Account," then "Deactivate profile." Simple.

Their profile and content instantly vanish from public view—but nothing's deleted. Data stays intact. Reactivation? Just log back in. Everything returns, exactly as before.

There's only one limitation: can't deactivate more than once weekly. Instagram account remains completely untouched throughout the process. Perfect for digital detoxing without commitment.