Want to post an Instagram Reel without it appearing on your main profile grid? Maybe it’s a fun moment, a casual update, or some behind-the-scenes content that doesn’t quite fit your overall aesthetic. For many users—whether you’re a content creator, small business, or just someone who likes to keep their profile neat—maintaining a consistent feed is important. If you’re wondering how to share a Reel on Instagram Story without posting it to your main profile grid, you’re not alone. Here’s a simple workaround that gives you more control over what shows up on your profile while still getting your Reel in front of your audience.
How to Hide a Reel From Your Main Feed?
If you want to share a Reel without it appearing on your main profile grid, Instagram gives you the option to hide it during the posting process.
Start by creating and editing your Reel as usual in the Instagram app. When you reach the screen where you add your caption and hashtags, scroll down to find the Profile Display option.
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Tap Profile Display
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Then select Reels Grid Only
Once that’s set, tap Share to post your Reel.
Your Reel will now be visible in the Reels tab of your profile—marked by the Reels icon in the center of your profile page—but it won’t show up on your main grid.
How to Share a Reel to Your Instagram Story?
Whether it’s your own Reel or one from another public account, sharing it to your Story is simple.
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Tap the Share icon at the bottom of the Reel (or in the bottom right corner if you’re viewing it from the Explore page)
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Select Add to Story from the menu that pops up
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Edit the Story as you like, then tap the arrow in the bottom right to post
Keep in mind: Instagram Stories have a 60-second limit, while Reels can be up to 90 seconds. If your Reel exceeds the Story time limit, you may need to trim or crop it accordingly.
How to Archive an Instagram Reel?
Need to temporarily hide a Reel? Archiving works just like it does for regular posts.
To archive your own Reel:
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Tap the three dots in the bottom right corner of the Reel
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Select Manage
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Then tap Archive
This removes the Reel from both your profile grid and the Reels tab, saving it privately in your Archive.
How to Unarchive an Instagram Reel?
Changed your mind? Here’s how to bring a Reel back from your Archive:
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Tap the three lines in the top right corner of your profile
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Go to Archive
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From the top menu, select Posts Archive
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Find the Reel you want to restore, tap it, then tap the circular arrow icon above the three dots
Your Reel will reappear in the same location on your profile as it originally was, based on the date it was first posted. Keep in mind, archiving doesn’t allow you to reorder posts.
Last thoughts
And if you’re wondering how to share Reel on Instagram Story without posting it to your profile, now you’ve got the tools to do just that. With a little planning, you can stay active, creative, and connected with your audience—without disrupting the look and feel of your feed.
Frequently Asked Questions: Sharing Reel On Instagram Story Without Posting
Can I share someone else’s Reel to my Instagram Story without posting it to my profile?
Absolutely! Just open the Reel, tap the paper airplane icon, and select “Add Reel to Your Story.” This lets you share it directly to your Story without it appearing on your main profile grid.
Will people see that I shared a Reel to my Story if I don’t post it on my profile?
Yes, anyone who views your Story will be able to see the shared Reel. However, it won’t show up on your profile feed unless you choose to post it there separately.
Can I share a Reel privately with specific people instead of posting it publicly?
Yes, you can. Tap the paper airplane icon on the Reel, then choose the people you want to send it to via direct message. This way, it stays private and won’t appear in your feed or Story.
Is there a way to share a Reel to my Story without displaying the original creator’s username?
No, Instagram automatically includes the original creator’s username when you share their Reel to your Story. This ensures proper credit is given and cannot be removed.