💡 Ideas & Tips
✦
Feb 12, 2024
✦
6 min read
Instagram is one of the most used social media in the world with more than 2 billions active users monthly. Statista data shows users spent an average of 12 hours per month on Instagram in 2022.
While many of us use Instagram to chat with friends, follow celebrities, or even influencers, it's also a veritable advertising nest. According to Hootsuite, nearly 500 million users are exposed to targeted advertising every day, and over 44% of these users end up making a purchase. It's no wonder that the platform isn't willing to let us go! And it's using all the right means to do so. So, how can you resist and temporarily block Instagram?
3 Simple Ways to Block Instagram on iPhone
One effective way to handle addiction is to cut off the source. Blocking Instagram on your iPhone is an effective way to limit your time on the app. The methods below will help you limit your Instagram screen time and use it for more productive activities.
⏲️ Method 1: Set up 1 min Daily App Limit for Instagram on your iPhone.
You can use the Screen Time feature to block Instagram on your iPhone. The Screen Time feature tracks your app usage and lets you set limits for specific apps. If Instagram takes up too much of your time or negatively impacts your life, this tool is useful.
To set up app limits for Instagram, follow these steps:
1️⃣ Open the Settings on your iPhone
2️⃣ Scroll down and tap on Screen Time
3️⃣ Tap on "App Limits"
4️⃣ Tap on "Add Limit" and select Instagram (under "Social") from the list of app categories
5️⃣ Set a time limit for Instagram. The minimum is 1 min every day and that's what we choose to "block" Instagram using this Screen Time iPhone feature. Tap on Add and your time limit is complete.
When you set a time limit for Instagram through App Limits, you'll get a notification once that limit is reached. However, you can still use Instagram after this by selecting "Ignore Limit", that's why the 2nd method is way more effective if you feel you would be tempted to ignore the limit.
🔒 Method 2: Jomo (The Easiest and most Effective Way to Block Instagram)
Jomo is a straightforward yet powerful app blocker. This app aims to help you limit your phone usage, supporting healthy digital health. To use Jomo to disable Instagram on your iPhone, follow these 4 steps:
To use Jomo to block Instagram on your iPhone, follow these 4 steps:
1️⃣ Install Jomo app through the App Store and launch the app
2️⃣ Go in "Rules" and then tap on the "+" to select "Start blocking session"
3️⃣ Choose "App blocked" and select "Instagram" in "Social" to block Instagram
4️⃣ In "Timing" change "Scheduled" to "Always on"
5️⃣ Tap on Start to start blocking Instagram
Jomo also helps you analyze your usage pattern to understand better where most of the consumed time goes. It will also guide you in recognizing patterns that you can change to improve your screen-time habits. We recommend you use the Jomo app to effectively block Instagram on your iPhone. It's user-friendly and promotes digital health and well-being.
PS: In Jomo, you can also use the pre-made template "Conscious use" to block Instagram. This way, you can block Instagram by default and only unlock it when you REALLY need it.
🚨 Method 3: Instagram App Limit
During its development, Instagram added a feature to define a time limit. Here's how to activate this feature:
1️⃣ Open Instagram and go to "Profile"
2️⃣ Tap on the 3 bars icon, then open the "Settings and Privacy" of Instagram
3️⃣ Go to "Time Spent"
4️⃣ Define your daily screen time on Instagram and validate
This method can be effective for some very strong-minded people. But often, you'll simply ignore the reminder and keep continue scrolling.
On the other hand, if you want to ban Instagram completely from your Internet network, follow the bonus method below.
🛜 Method Bonus: Router
Blocking Instagram on a router level effectively restricts access to the app across all devices connected to your home network. This can be particularly useful for families with children or individuals who want to limit their Instagram usage.
Implementing a block at the router level is a lasting solution compared to just deleting the app from a device. The network-level block remains effective even if Instagram is reinstalled on any device. The specific steps involved will vary depending on your router model, but the general process is as follows:
1️⃣ Access Router Settings
Look for the IP address of the router. It is usually printed in a sticker affixed to the device. Open any web browser and enter your router’s IP address in the address bar to access the router’s admin page. Enter your router's login credentials.
2️⃣ Configure Parental Controls
Upon logging in, go to the Parental Controls page. Its exact location will depend on your router’s model but check for any available features like “Parental Controls”, or “Web Filtering,”.
Within the Parental Controls settings, create a new rule or entry. This rule will block specific domains and IP addresses associated with Instagram. In the rule's settings, enter the following Instagram domains and IP addresses:
.instagram.com
These domains and IP addresses cover various aspects of Instagram's infrastructure, ensuring comprehensive blocking. Save the rule and apply the changes. This will activate the blocking of Instagram for all devices connected to your router.
3️⃣ Verify Blocking
Connect your iPhone to the Wi-Fi network you just configured. Open the Instagram app on your device. If the blocking has been successful, the Instagram app will not load or display any content. When you try to access Instagram, you'll see an error message saying the connection is blocked.
Why is it Better to Limit Your Time On Instagram for Your Mental Health?
The constant flows of Reels and publications can significantly contribute to mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and social isolation. By reducing your Instagram usage, you can sidestep the detrimental effects of incessantly comparing yourself to others—a common problem on social media that can adversely affect self-esteem and body image.
Curtailing your time on Instagram allows you to break free from its ceaseless stimulation and distraction. This adjustment can heighten your focus on the present, enabling you to engage in more fulfilling activities and elevate your overall mood.
Moreover, spending less time on Instagram can foster more real-world interactions and fortify relationships. Increased engagement with friends, family, and loved ones can nurture community, provide support, and establish genuine connections, all of which are crucial for maintaining good mental health.
Take practical steps to block Instagram on your iPhone in order to manage your digital well-being and mental health. Excessive use of Instagram can have harmful consequences, so it's crucial to establish boundaries.
Steer clear of social media and concentrate on activities that bring you joy. Blocking Instagram on your iPhone will help strike a balance in your life, ensuring equilibrium between your interactions in the real world and on the internet. Remember, your mental well-being deserves attention and care.
