Have you ever posted something on Instagram and noticed that comments are missing? Or maybe you left a comment on someone's post and it just disappeared? You are not alone. This is a common problem that happens to many Instagram users.
In this guide, we will explain why Instagram comments might not show up and give you 12 simple ways to fix the problem.
Why Do Instagram Comments Disappear?
There are several reasons why comments might not appear on Instagram posts. Understanding these causes will help you find the right solution.
Spam and Content Filters
Instagram uses an algorithm that automatically filters comments. It looks for spam, offensive language, and bot-like behavior. If Instagram thinks a comment breaks the rules, it might hide it without telling you.
Privacy Settings
Strict privacy settings can limit who can comment on your posts. If you have restricted commenting to only certain people, others will not be able to leave comments that you can see.
Hidden Words Filter
Instagram has a Hidden Words feature that blocks comments containing certain words or phrases. If a comment includes any of your blocked terms, it gets hidden automatically.
Comments Turned Off
Sometimes commenting is simply disabled on a specific post. The post owner might have turned off comments intentionally or accidentally.
Comment Sorting
Instagram defaults to showing Most Relevant comments. This means newer or less popular comments might be hidden from view. Only the comments Instagram thinks are most important show up first.
Account Restrictions
If someone has blocked or restricted you, your comments will not show up on their posts. Similarly, if you have blocked someone, you will not see their comments.
Shadowban
A shadowban happens when Instagram limits your account for spam-like behavior. You can still post and comment, but other people might not see your activity.
12 Ways to Fix Instagram Comments Not Showing
Here are twelve solutions you can try to get your Instagram comments working again.
1. Check Your Internet Connection
A weak or unstable internet connection can prevent comments from loading. Make sure you have a strong WiFi signal or good mobile data connection. Try loading another app or website to test your connection.
2. Restart the Instagram App
Close Instagram completely and reopen it. This clears temporary glitches that might be causing the problem. On iPhone, swipe up from the bottom and swipe the app away. On Android, use the recent apps button and close Instagram.
3. Check Your Comment Settings
Go to your Instagram settings and find the Comments section. Make sure Allow Comments From is set to Everyone. If it is set to a smaller group, you will miss comments from people outside that group.
4. Review Your Hidden Words Filters
Check if you have custom blocked words in your Hidden Words settings. Some comments might be hiding because they contain words on your list. You can also tap View Hidden Comments to see filtered messages.
5. Turn Comments Back On
If comments are turned off on a specific post, you can turn them back on. Go to the post, tap the three dots in the corner, and select Turn On Commenting.
6. Switch to Most Recent View
Change how comments are sorted. Look for the option to view Most Recent comments instead of Most Relevant. This shows comments in order from newest to oldest, so you will not miss any.
7. Check Blocked and Restricted Accounts
Go to Settings and look at your blocked accounts list. Make sure you have not accidentally blocked someone whose comments you want to see. Also check your restricted accounts.
8. Clear Cache or Reinstall the App
On Android, you can clear the app cache in your phone settings. On iPhone, the best option is to delete Instagram and install it again. This removes any corrupted files that might cause problems.
9. Update Instagram to the Latest Version
Make sure you have the newest version of Instagram. Go to the App Store or Google Play Store and check for updates. Old versions can have bugs that cause comments to disappear.
10. Check If Instagram Is Down
Sometimes the problem is on Instagram's end. Visit Downdetector or a similar website to see if other users are reporting problems. If Instagram is having an outage, you just need to wait until they fix it.
11. Wait If You Are Shadowbanned
If you think you might be shadowbanned, stop commenting for 24 to 48 hours. Then start engaging again slowly with varied comments. Do not copy and paste the same comment on multiple posts.
12. Report the Problem to Instagram
If nothing else works, report the issue to Instagram. Go to Settings, then Help, and select Report a Problem. Describe what is happening and Instagram support will look into it.
How to Prevent Comment Problems
Follow these tips to avoid comment issues in the future.
- Keep Instagram updated to the latest version
- Use content filters carefully and do not make them too strict
- Do not post the same comment on many posts
- Engage with your audience regularly
- Check Instagram status when you notice problems
- Consider using management tools for business accounts
Frequently Asked Questions
Why can I see the comment count but not the actual comments?
This usually happens because of a loading issue or filtering. The count shows all comments, but some might be hidden by filters. Try refreshing the page or checking your filter settings.
Can I get deleted comments back?
No, once a comment is deleted it cannot be recovered. Instagram does not keep backup copies of deleted comments.
How long does a shadowban last?
For first-time offenses, a shadowban typically lasts 24 to 48 hours. If you continue spammy behavior, it can last longer.
What is the difference between blocking and restricting?
When you block someone, they cannot interact with you at all. When you restrict someone, they can still comment, but only they can see their own comments on your posts. Other people will not see the restricted persons comments.
Conclusion
Instagram comments not showing can be frustrating, but most of the time there is a simple fix. Start by checking your internet connection and restarting the app. Then look at your settings to make sure comments are enabled and filters are not too strict.
If the problem continues, clear your cache, update the app, or check if Instagram is having technical issues. With these 12 solutions, you should be able to get your comments working again.
