Snapchat’s fun features like disappearing Snaps, filters, and Bitmoji have kept users hooked for years. However the platform has been in the middle of a number of controversies surrounding many data leaks. While Snapchat is essentially safe to use in 2025, it targets a very specific demographic of younger users. So, it’s very normal to want to get off this platform once the magic has worn off.
So, whether you’ve decided to say goodbye to Snapchat because of security concerns or digital detox, we’re here to help.
What’s the difference between Deactivating and Deleting Snapchat?
First, let’s clear up the confusion between deactivating and deleting your Snapchat account.
Deactivation: Think of this as a trial run. Deactivating your account temporarily removes you from Snapchat. Your friends can’t contact you, but your data is still there for 30 days. If you change your mind, just log back in, and it’s like you never left.
Deletion: This is the point of no return. Once your account is deleted, your Snaps, chats, stories, and everything tied to it are gone forever. Snapchat gives you 30 days of deactivation before your account is deleted permanently.
How to Delete or Deactivate Your Snapchat Account
On Android:
Snapchat doesn’t make it easy to delete your account directly from the app. Instead, you’ll need to access the web portal through your browser.
- Open the Snapchat app.
- Tap on your Bitmoji/Avatar in the top-left corner.
- Navigate to the gear icon (Settings) in the top-right corner.
- Scroll to “Support and Feedback” and tap on “Help Center.”
- Type in “Delete My Account” on the search bar and go to the support page
- Tap on “Snapchat accounts portal”
- You’ll be redirected to Snapchat’s account management page in your browser. Log in if prompted.
- Confirm your decision, and your account will enter the 30-day deactivation phase.
On iOS:
The account deletion process on Snapchat iOS app is a bit different from Android.
- Open the Snapchat app.
- Tap on your Bitmoji/Avatar in the top-left corner.
- Navigate to the gear icon (Settings) in the top-right corner.
- Scroll down to “Account Actions” and tap on “Delete Account”
- Log in to the Snapchat accounts portal
- Tap ‘Delete my account’ and input password when prompted
- Tap ‘Continue’ to confirm
On Desktop:
- Visit the Snapchat Account Portal.
- Log in with your credentials.
- Select “Delete My Account” and follow the prompts.
How to Temporarily Deactivate Snapchat?
The process to delete and deactivate Snapchat is the same. This means if you delete your account it will remain deactivated for 30 days before permanant deletion. Snapchat does not have a separate option for indefinite deactivation. So if you ever want to temporarily deactivate your account, make sure to reactivate before 30 days to avoid losing your account forever
How to Reactivate Snapchat?
If you have deactivated or scheduled your Snapchat account for deletion, you can reactivate it simply by logging back in. This works on Android, iOS, and Desktop, through a web browser.
How to Uninstall or Remove Snapchat from Your Device
Maybe you’re not ready to delete your account but want to remove the app from your device. Here’s how:
On Android:
- Go to your device’s Settings.
- Tap on “Apps” or “Application Manager”. (varies by OEM)
- Find Snapchat in the list and tap on it.
- Select Uninstall and confirm.
Alternatively:
- Long-press the Snapchat icon on your home screen.
- Drag it to the Uninstall or Trash bin at the top of the screen.
- Confirm the removal.
On iOS:
- Press and hold the Snapchat app icon until it starts wiggling.
- Tap the small “X” in the top corner.
- Confirm by selecting “Delete.”
Things to keep in mind before deleting Snapchat
Before you delete, you need to consider a few things.
Download your data: Once deleted, all your data, such as snaps, chats, and memories, will be permanently erased. Download important content from Snapchat’s Account Portal before taking the plunge.
Subscriptions and Streaks: If you’ve invested time in subscriptions or maintaining Snapstreaks, remember that they’re tied to your account. Deleting Snapchat means losing access to these, too.
Connected Accounts: Check if your Snapchat account is linked to other platforms, apps, or services. Disconnect them to avoid complications.
I used to have a Bitstrips account, which Snapchat acquired in 2016 and renamed to Bitmoji. So, I made Snapchat my primary method of logging into Bitmoji. Later, when I deleted my Snapchat account, I forgot about Bitmoji and lost access to it too. However, these services are now well integrated, so there’s not much point in using one without the other. However, this was a good learning opportunity. So please don’t make the same mistake I did.
Wrapping Up
Moving away from a platform like Snapchat can be a big step. However, a digital detox may be what you need at times. Hopefully, this guide will help you do that properly while avoiding any added complications.