Instagram’s Vanish Mode feature allows users to send disappearing messages that automatically vanish once seen or when the chat is closed. While it’s a fun feature for sending temporary messages, some users may want to turn it off for various reasons—perhaps for privacy, to keep conversations saved, or simply because they prefer regular chat settings.
If you’re wondering how to disable Vanish Mode on Instagram, don’t worry. It’s a quick and simple process! In this guide, we’ll show you how to turn off Vanish Mode on Instagram, step by step.
What is Vanish Mode on Instagram?
Before diving into how to turn off Vanish Mode, let’s quickly review what it is. Vanish Mode is a feature on Instagram that allows users to send messages that disappear after they’ve been seen or once the conversation is closed. It’s a great way to send temporary messages, but it can also feel intrusive or uncomfortable for some.
Messages sent in Vanish Mode are not saved in your chat history, and they can’t be retrieved unless you take a screenshot (which will notify the other person). It’s also activated by a simple swipe, and you can turn it off just as easily.
How to Turn Off Vanish Mode on Instagram: Step-by-Step
If you’ve activated Vanish Mode on Instagram and want to turn it off, here’s what you need to do:
Step 1: Open the Instagram App
Start by opening the Instagram app on your smartphone or tablet.
Step 2: Go to Your Direct Messages
Once you’re logged in, tap the paper airplane icon in the top-right corner of your home screen to open your Direct Messages (DMs). This is where all your chats are stored, including any messages sent in Vanish Mode.
Step 3: Select the Chat with Vanish Mode Active
Next, find the conversation where Vanish Mode is enabled. You’ll know Vanish Mode is on because the screen will be darker, and you’ll see the message bubbles appear in a different color, usually white or grey.
Step 4: Swipe Up to Exit Vanish Mode
To turn off Vanish Mode, simply swipe up on your screen (the same swipe motion that activated Vanish Mode in the first place). This will exit the mode and return your chat to its regular settings, where messages are saved unless manually deleted.
Step 5: Confirm Vanish Mode is Disabled
After swiping up, you should see the regular chat interface again, where messages are no longer disappearing. If you don’t see this change, try sending a test message to check.
Once Vanish Mode is turned off, messages will stay visible in the chat, and you can continue your conversation like normal.
What Happens After You Turn Off Vanish Mode?
After turning off Vanish Mode, all your messages will revert to the standard chat format. This means:
- Messages will no longer disappear after being viewed.
- You’ll be able to scroll through and refer back to messages anytime you like.
- Vanish Mode will stay turned off unless you activate it again in the future.
The person you’re chatting with won’t be notified when you turn off Vanish Mode. It’s a discreet process that just changes the way your chats behave.
Can I Turn Off Vanish Mode Permanently?
While you can turn off Vanish Mode anytime you want, there’s no permanent option to disable it completely. The feature is built into Instagram’s messaging system, so it can always be reactivated by swiping up on a conversation.
However, you can simply avoid using it altogether by not swiping up during your chats, and your messages will continue to be the regular, saved kind.
Can I Turn Off Vanish Mode for Specific People?
Unfortunately, there isn’t an option to disable Vanish Mode for specific people on Instagram. If you want to avoid using Vanish Mode with certain contacts, the best approach is to not swipe up and activate it during those conversations. For users you don’t want to use Vanish Mode with, try sticking to regular chats.
What If I Want to Prevent Others from Using Vanish Mode with Me?
If you’re concerned about others accidentally or intentionally using Vanish Mode with you, you can block the feature entirely with a few simple steps:
- Go to Profile Settings: Tap your profile icon in the bottom-right corner of the app, then tap the three horizontal lines (hamburger menu) in the top-right corner. Select Settings.
- Navigate to Privacy: Under the settings menu, select Privacy.
- Message Controls: Here, you can choose who can send you messages and whether or not Vanish Mode is available for certain users. You can choose to block Vanish Mode for people you don’t want to interact with or for specific groups.
Conclusion
Turning off Vanish Mode on Instagram is quick and easy. Whether you’re ready to return to the standard chat format or simply want to avoid disappearing messages, the process involves swiping up on the conversation where Vanish Mode is active. You can disable Vanish Mode as many times as you like—whenever you want to have a chat without disappearing messages, just follow the simple steps!
By mastering these steps, you can take full control over your Instagram conversations and enjoy a more personalized, permanent messaging experience