Get back deleted Instagram content: A step-by-step guide
28 Feb 2025

Instagram's "Recently Deleted" function serves as a handy safety net for those who have mistakenly erased their cherished content.

Accessible on Android, this feature allows you to restore posts, stories, reels, IGTV videos, and photos within a 30-day window.

Stories that weren't archived can be retrieved for up to 24 hours.

Here is a step-by-step guide on how to navigate to this feature and utilize it.

Accessing your digital recycle bin
Access steps

To start the recovery process, launch the Instagram app on your Android device and make sure you're logged into your account.

Head to your profile by tapping your picture or username at the bottom right corner.

Next, tap the three horizontal lines at the top right corner of your profile page to open the menu.

Then, choose Settings to continue.

Recovering or deleting content permanently
Manage content

Go to "Settings," click on "Account" and locate "Recently Deleted."

Access content from the past 30 days. Each item displays the remaining time before it gets permanently deleted.

To recover, click on a post and select "Restore." This will reinstate it to your feed or stories.

To delete forever, select "Delete" from the options.

Ensuring account security during recovery
Security measure

Instagram takes user security seriously. So, when you try to restore or permanently delete content from the "Recently Deleted" folder, you may be asked to confirm that it's really you (i.e., verify your account identity).

This extra layer of security is there to make sure only you have the power to make changes to your content. It helps keep hackers who might try to sneak into your account at bay.

Tips for avoiding future regrets
Prevention tips

Instead of immediately deleting a post, try using Instagram's "Archive" feature as an alternative.

Archiving hides posts from public view without permanently deleting them, ensuring you can still access them later if you change your mind.

Plus, it's always a good idea to regularly back up any important content externally (like on Google Photos or iCloud) to avoid losing it forever.