How to Reset the Instagram Algorithm?
Instagram is one of the most powerful social media platforms in the world, with billions of users scrolling through their feeds every day. What many people don’t realize is that the posts, stories, and reels they see are not random. Everything is controlled by Instagram’s algorithm, a complex system designed to show users content that is most relevant to them.
Sometimes, however, the algorithm may feel “stuck.” Maybe you keep seeing posts from accounts you don’t care about, or your Explore page is filled with irrelevant videos. In such cases, many users wonder: Can you reset the Instagram algorithm? The answer is yes—you can’t press a single reset button, but you can retrain the algorithm to better understand your interests.
In this article, we’ll explore what the Instagram algorithm is, why it matters, and step-by-step methods to reset it for a fresh experience.
What Is the Instagram Algorithm?
The Instagram algorithm is a set of rules and machine-leaing models that decide what content appears on your feed, Explore page, Reels, and even Stories. It takes into account factors such as:
Your activity – What posts you like, comment on, save, or share.
Your relationships – Which accounts you interact with the most.
Content relevance – Whether a photo, reel, or story matches your past behavior.
Recency – Newer content is prioritized.
Engagement signals – How much engagement a post is getting from others.
This means if you spend a lot of time watching dog videos, Instagram will show you more dogs. If you engage with cooking content, your feed will soon be filled with recipes.
Why Reset the Instagram Algorithm?
You may want to reset the algorithm for several reasons:
Your Explore page feels irrelevant – You’re stuck seeing content you no longer like.
Too many ads – The algorithm may be targeting you inaccurately.
Personal growth – You’ve changed your interests, but Instagram hasn’t caught up.
Content creators – You want to test how your engagement changes with new behaviors.
Resetting the algorithm essentially means re-training it by feeding it new engagement pattes.
Step-by-Step Guide to Resetting the Instagram Algorithm
Here’s how you can refresh your Instagram experience:
1. Clear Your Search History
Your search history influences what Instagram thinks you like.
Go to your profile.
Tap the three lines in the top-right coer.
Select Settings & Privacy > Search History.
Clear all searches.
This prevents Instagram from suggesting accounts or topics you’ve lost interest in.
2. Unfollow Irrelevant Accounts
If your feed is full of content you don’t care about, it’s time to clean up your following list.
Go through your following list.
Unfollow accounts that no longer interest you.
Keep only accounts you truly want to see.
This directly signals to Instagram that those users are not part of your priority circle.
3. Mute or Restrict Accounts You Can’t Unfollow
Sometimes, you may not want to unfollow someone (like a family member or friend), but you don’t want to see their posts either.
Tap on their profile.
Select Following > Mute.
Mute their posts and stories.
This helps declutter your feed without social consequences.
4. Remove Old Engagements
Posts you liked or commented on years ago may still affect your recommendations.
Go to Settings & Privacy > Your Activity.
Review your likes and comments.
Unlike posts that don’t match your current interests.
This helps Instagram recalibrate.
5. Engage With New Content
Once you’ve cleaned up, start training the algorithm:
Search hashtags related to your new interests.
Follow accounts in those niches.
Like, save, and comment on posts you genuinely enjoy.
Watch Reels from those categories all the way through.
Instagram’s algorithm leas quickly—within days, your feed and Explore page will start changing.
6. Use the “Not Interested” Option
When you see irrelevant posts, tap the three dots (…) on the top right of the post and select Not Interested. This is a powerful way to signal your preferences.
7. Limit Time on the Explore Page
If your Explore page is filled with irrelevant content, avoid scrolling for too long. The more you interact with it, the more data Instagram collects. Instead, use direct searches and hashtags to guide the algorithm.
8. Reset Suggested Reels
Reels are a big part of the Instagram experience, and they are algorithm-heavy. If you don’t like what you’re seeing:
Tap Not Interested on Reels you dislike.
Engage more with Reels in your preferred category.
Does Deleting the App Help?
Some users wonder if uninstalling and reinstalling Instagram resets the algorithm. The answer is no. Your data is stored in Instagram’s servers, not on your device. Deleting the app won’t erase your algorithmic history.
How Long Does It Take to Reset the Algorithm?
The reset isn’t instant. It usually takes a few days to a couple of weeks of consistent new engagement for Instagram to adjust. Patience and consistent interaction with desired content are key.
Final Tips
Be intentional with every like and comment.
Regularly unfollow and mute accounts.
Use hashtags to explore new communities.
Report or mark irrelevant content as Not Interested.
By following these steps, you can successfully reset your Instagram algorithm and take control of what you see. This makes your experience more enjoyable and aligned with your true interests.
Conclusion
Instagram’s algorithm can feel overwhelming, but it’s ultimately designed to serve you. By understanding how it works and taking active steps to reset it, you can tu your feed into a curated experience that reflects your current passions. Instead of being controlled by random suggestions, you’ll regain control over your social media jouey.
A reset is not just about cleaning your feed—it’s about reclaiming your attention and focus in a world full of distractions.
