How to Leave a Note on Instagram Reels?
Instagram is constantly evolving, and one of the latest features that users are discovering is the ability to leave notes. Traditionally, Instagram allowed likes, comments, and shares on Reels, but the platform has expanded interaction options to make content more engaging. Leaving a note on Reels is not the same as leaving a comment. Instead, Instagram’s Notes feature is designed to give you a lightweight, quick way to express your thoughts, reactions, or reminders to close friends or followers.
If you are confused about what Instagram Notes are, how they work, and specifically how to use them in connection with Reels, this article will walk you through everything step by step. By the end of this guide, you’ll understand how to leave a note, who can see it, and how this tool can enhance your Instagram experience.
What Are Instagram Notes?
Instagram Notes are short text updates (up to 60 characters) that appear at the top of your Direct Messages (DM) inbox. Think of them like a digital sticky note or a status update. Unlike a comment, which is tied directly to a post or Reel, Notes are more general and designed to be shared with either your “Close Friends” list or with all followers you follow back.
So if you want to leave a quick message related to a Reel you just watched, instead of posting a public comment, you can create a Note in your DMs that your chosen audience will see. This makes Notes more personal and less permanent compared to traditional comments.
Can You Leave Notes Directly on Reels?
Currently, Instagram does not allow you to attach Notes directly on top of a Reel like you would with a comment. However, you can leave a Note about a Reel, share that Reel in your DM inbox, and then add a Note that your friends will notice. In practice, this works as an indirect way of leaving a “note on a Reel.”
For example:
You watch a funny Reel.
You share it to your DM inbox.
You create a Note with a short reaction like “This Reel made my day 😂.”
Your friends see the Reel along with your Note.
This gives the impression of leaving a Note about the Reel while still using Instagram’s built-in Notes feature.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Leave a Note on Instagram Reels
Here’s a practical walkthrough you can follow:
Step 1: Update Instagram
Make sure you have the latest version of Instagram installed. Notes is a relatively new feature, so older versions may not support it.
Step 2: Watch a Reel
Go to your Reels feed and watch the Reel you want to leave a note about.
Step 3: Share the Reel to DMs
Click on the “paper airplane” icon (share button) under the Reel. Send it either to your Close Friends list or to a friend group.
Step 4: Open Your Direct Messages
Go back to your DM inbox. At the top, you will see your profile picture with a “+” button for Notes.
Step 5: Add a Note
Click the “+” button, type your short message (up to 60 characters), and post it. For example:
“This Reel is pure gold 🔥”
“Totally me 😂”
“Weekend vibes 🌴”
Step 6: Choose Audience
You can select “Close Friends” if you only want a limited group to see your Note, or choose “Followers you follow back” for a wider audience.
Step 7: Post the Note
Once posted, your Note will appear at the top of their inbox. If they’ve just received the Reel you shared, they’ll understand your Note is about that Reel.
Why Use Notes Instead of Comments?
You might wonder why you should leave a Note instead of just commenting on a Reel. Here are a few reasons:
Privacy: Notes are less public than comments. Only your chosen audience sees them.
Personalization: Great for inside jokes, private reactions, or sharing feelings that don’t need to be public.
Temporary Nature: Notes disappear after 24 hours, making them casual and low-pressure.
Engagement: They can spark conversations in DMs, leading to more meaningful interactions.
Creative Ideas for Notes on Reels
React to funny Reels with emojis: “😂🤣😂”
Express excitement: “Best Reel I’ve seen today!”
Send support: “This creator deserves more love â¤ï¸”
Use them as reminders: “Try this recipe tomorrow”
Create curiosity: “Wait until you see the ending 👀”
Limitations of Instagram Notes
Notes are text-only; you can’t add images, GIFs, or videos.
Maximum character limit is 60.
Notes aren’t attached directly to Reels, so you need to share a Reel to give context.
Only available in DMs, not on the main feed or comments section.
Future of Notes on Instagram Reels
Instagram is known for experimenting with features. In the future, it’s possible that the platform will allow users to leave Notes directly on Reels as a quick reaction system, similar to Twitter replies or Snapchat notes. For now, however, using Notes in combination with shared Reels in DMs is the best way to replicate this.
Final Thoughts
Leaving a Note on Instagram Reels is not as straightforward as leaving a comment, but it’s still a fun and creative way to interact with your friends. By combining Reel sharing with Instagram Notes, you can create personalized, temporary messages that feel more intimate and engaging.
If you want to stand out on Instagram, try using Notes strategically—share Reels, leave a funny or insightful Note, and encourage your friends to respond. It’s a small feature, but when used correctly, it can make your social interactions more lively and authentic.
