Instagram is one of the most popular social media platforms in the world, giving users the power to share photos, videos, and Stories with just a few taps. But with all the benefits of connection and creativity, sometimes unwanted or negative comments can spoil the experience.
Whether you’re a business, content creator, or just someone who prefers a quieter space online, learning how to turn off the comments on Instagram can help you take back control of your content.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through step-by-step instructions to disable comments on posts, Reels, Stories, and even before you publish something new. We’ll also cover why turning off comments might be a smart move—and how you can do it without hurting engagement.
Why You Might Want to Turn Off Comments on Instagram
There are many reasons people choose to turn off Instagram comments, including:
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Reducing negativity: To avoid spam, trolling, or hurtful feedback.
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Staying focused: Less distraction from your main message or creative vision.
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Privacy: Keeping your personal life less exposed to the public.
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Brand protection: For businesses, turning off comments on sensitive posts can protect reputation.
Whatever your reason, Instagram makes it simple to manage your comment settings—if you know where to look.
How to Turn Off Comments on Instagram (Step-by-Step)
1. Turn Off Comments Before Posting
If you’re about to share a photo or video and want to disable comments right from the start, follow these steps:
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Open Instagram and start creating your post as usual.
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Before tapping “Share,” scroll down and tap Advanced Settings (near the bottom).
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Toggle on Turn Off Commenting.
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Now tap Share to post your content with comments already disabled.
This is especially helpful for posts where you want to make an announcement or share something sensitive.
2. Turn Off Comments on an Existing Post
Already posted something and now want to stop people from commenting? No problem.
Here’s how to disable comments after a post is live:
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Go to your Instagram profile and find the post.
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Tap the three dots (⋯) in the top-right corner of the post.
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Select Turn Off Commenting from the menu.
That’s it—comments will be hidden, and no one (including you) will be able to comment on that post anymore.
To turn them back on, just follow the same steps and tap Turn On Commenting.
3. How to Turn Off Comments on Instagram Reels
Instagram Reels are great for short, engaging content—but they’re also public by default and can attract all kinds of comments.
To turn off comments on a Reel:
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Open your profile and go to the Reel.
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Tap the three dots (⋯) in the bottom-right corner.
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Choose Manage > Turn Off Commenting.
You can also do this while posting a new Reel by going to Advanced Settings before sharing it.
4. How to Turn Off Comments on Instagram Stories
Stories don’t have public comments like posts or Reels, but people can reply with messages unless you turn that off.
To disable replies on Stories:
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Go to your Instagram profile and tap the menu icon (≡).
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Tap Settings and Privacy > Messages and Story Replies.
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Tap Story Replies.
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Choose Off or People You Follow (depending on your preference).
This gives you more control over who can respond to your Stories—and helps prevent unwanted messages in your inbox.
Extra Tips for Managing Comments
Disabling comments isn’t the only option. If you still want some interaction but want to keep it safe and positive, here are a few other tools Instagram offers:
1. Restrict Certain Users
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Go to the profile of the person you want to restrict.
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Tap the three dots and select Restrict.
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Their comments will only be visible to them unless you approve them.
2. Filter Out Offensive Comments
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Go to Settings and Privacy > Hidden Words.
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Turn on Hide Offensive Comments and even add your custom keywords.
3. Block or Report Abusive Accounts
If someone is constantly leaving inappropriate comments, don’t hesitate to block or report them. Instagram takes abuse seriously.
Pros and Cons of Turning Off Instagram Comments
Like any feature, turning off comments has its ups and downs.
Pros:
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Peace of mind
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Less spam or hate
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More control over your content
Cons:
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Reduced engagement or feedback
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Fewer chances to connect with your audience
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Might look like you’re avoiding discussion
It’s all about balance. You don’t need to turn off comments on every post—just on the ones where it makes sense.
Final Thoughts
Learning how to turn off the comments on Instagram is a smart way to take control of your social media experience. Whether you’re dealing with trolls, avoiding controversy, or just want a break from the noise, it’s your account—and you get to choose how people interact with it.
Ready to clean up your comment section or create a more peaceful space online? Follow the steps in this guide, and take control today.