How to Remove Everyone from Close Friends on Instagram
Updated 2026-10-04 · ClosePush Team
Open your profile menu, tap "Close Friends", go to the list of people already added and untick them. Instagram does not notify anyone when you remove them. There is no official bulk option in every version of the app, so for a long list it can take a while.
Remove people from Close Friends, step by step
- Go to your profile and tap the menu (three lines, top right).
- Tap "Close Friends".
- Open the tab or section with the people already on your list.
- Untick the circle next to each person. Changes are saved instantly.
Some app versions show a "Clear all" or "Remove all" option at the top of the list. If you see it, it is the fastest way.
Do they get notified?
No. Instagram does not send a notification when you add or remove someone. They just stop seeing your green Close Friends stories. More on this in does Instagram notify Close Friends?
Alternative: just stop using the list
If you only want to stop sharing private stories, you do not need to empty the list. Post to "Your story" instead of "Close Friends". The list stays there, unused, until you need it again.
Starting again with a fresh list
Some creators clear their list, then rebuild it with all current followers to use Close Friends as a reach tool. Adding everyone again by hand is slow; ClosePush does it automatically. See how to add all your followers to Close Friends.
FAQ
Can I remove all Close Friends at once?
Only if your app version shows a "Clear all" option. Otherwise you need to untick people one by one.
Will removed people still see my old Close Friends stories?
No. Once removed, they cannot see your Close Friends stories, including ones still live.