Sometimes, your iPhone slows down all of a sudden. Maybe its storage is already full that's why factory resetting could be your emergency solution.

This is vital when trying to troubleshoot issues, sell your device, or start fresh. Here's how to securely delete your iPhone and restore it to factory settings.

Why Factory Reset Your iPhone?

How to Completely Reset Your iPhone

When you factory reset your device, you should know that it's a farewell message to your files, data, settings, and any content sucking your iPhone's energy. Just be prepared for this. However, it's also good to do if you want to restart your phone, value your privacy, prepare your device for sale, or just erase long-term problems along the way.

Step 1: Back Up Your iPhone

Before you reset your iPhone, always back up your data. That way, you can easily restore your contacts, photos, apps, and settings later.

How to Back Up Your iPhone

iCloud Backup

1. Go to Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud > iCloud Backup.
2. Tap Back Up Now and wait for the process to complete.

Mac or PC Backup

1. Connect your iPhone to your computer using a USB or USB-C cable.
2. Use Finder (macOS Catalina and later) or iTunes (macOS Mojave and earlier/Windows) to create a backup.

Step 2: Erase Your iPhone Using Settings

1. Open the Settings app.
2. Navigate to General > Transfer or Reset iPhone.
3. Tap Erase All Content and Settings.
4. Enter your passcode or Apple ID password if prompted.
5. Choose to erase your eSIM (if applicable) or keep it.
6. Important Note on eSIM
7. Deactivate your cellular plan by deleting your eSIM. Reach out to your carrier to turn it back on if you want to.

Step 3: Erase Your iPhone with a Computer

You can erase your iPhone if you can't get into its settings. Use a Mac or Windows computer to erase your device.

Connect iPhone

1. Use a USB or USB-C cable to connect your iPhone to your computer. Open Finder or iTunes to access the device.
2. On a Mac running macOS Catalina or later, open Finder.
3. On older macOS versions or Windows, open iTunes.

Restore Your iPhone

1. Click the iPhone icon in the Finder sidebar or iTunes.
2. Select Restore iPhone under the General tab and confirm your choice.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Forgotten Passcode or Disabled iPhone

If your iPhone is disabled or you've forgotten your passcode:

Use Recovery Mode on your computer to erase and restore your device.
Refer to the Apple Support guide for the recovery process.

Screen Time Passcode Reset

Forgot your Screen Time passcode? Reset it using Apple Support or disable Screen Time in Settings if available.

Final Steps: Restore Your Data

Once you've finished the reset, you can restore your backup. Follow the setup steps on your iPhone.

1. Restore from iCloud Backup or Restore from Mac/PC Backup.
2. Wait for the process to complete and your device is ready for use.

Safeguard Your Privacy

Before selling or recycling your device, you want to make sure your data is thoroughly erased from the iPhone. This way, when you do reset to factory settings, your personal data won't be present to leak.

In our latest how-to guides, you will also learn how to organize your Reminders app on your iPhone. It's often overlooked, but this is important if you are listing food on a shopping list or planning things for your holiday vacation.