We’ve all been there. You open Instagram to check your DMs and BAM! You get hit with the annoying message: “Couldn’t load messages.” Ugh. So frustrating, right?
But no worries! That pesky little error can go away with a few simple tricks. Follow along and let’s get those messages flowing again!
Why does this happen?
There isn’t just one reason. It could be due to:
- Your internet is having a mood swing.
- Instagram’s servers are down.
- Your app is outdated.
- Cache is messing things up.
- Too many apps running at once.
Now let’s break down how to solve it—one easy step at a time.
1. Check your internet connection
This one sounds obvious, but it works more often than you think. Make sure you have a stable connection.
- Try switching between Wi-Fi and mobile data.
- Turn Airplane Mode on, then off.
- Restart your router if you’re using Wi-Fi.
If everything loads fine in your browser but not on Instagram, keep going.
2. Restart your app (or your phone!)
This easy trick can do wonders. Just follow these steps:
- Close the Instagram app completely. Swipe it away!
- Wait a few seconds.
- Open it again and check your messages.
- If that doesn’t help, restart your phone.
Still not working? Don’t worry. We’ve got more tricks.
3. Update Instagram
Using an old version of the app can mess things up. Here’s what to do:
- Go to the App Store or Google Play Store.
- Search for Instagram.
- If you see an Update button, tap it!
Once it’s updated, try opening your messages again. A fresh update often fixes bugs!
4. Clear that messy cache
Sometimes, your phone stores too much junk data. Clearing cache can clean things up.
For Android:
- Go to Settings > Apps > Instagram.
- Tap on “Storage”.
- Tap “Clear Cache.” (Don’t hit Clear Data!)
For iPhone:
- There’s no “clear cache” button like Android, sadly.
- Your best bet: Delete the app and reinstall it.
5. Log out and log back in
This is another quick fix that sometimes does the trick.
- Open Instagram and go to your profile.
- Tap the three lines > Settings and privacy > Log out.
- Wait a few seconds, then log back in.
- Check your messages again!
6. Use Instagram on a browser
If the app just isn’t cooperating, this is a great backup plan.
- Go to instagram.com in your browser.
- Log in with your username and password.
- Try your messages from there.
It’s not the fanciest way, but hey—it gets the job done!
7. Is Instagram down?
Sometimes it’s not you—it’s them. Check if Instagram is having a moment.
- Go to sites like DownDetector.com.
- Search “Instagram.”
- If others are reporting problems, then it’s a waiting game.
Grab a snack, refresh the app later, and see if it works again.
Still not working?
If none of the above helps, contact Instagram support:
- Go to your profile > Settings and privacy > Help > Report a problem.
- Tell them exactly what’s wrong.
- Add screenshots if you can!
Final thoughts
The “Couldn’t load messages” error can be caused by a lot of little glitches. But with the steps above, most people fix it fast.
Just stay calm, try each method, and don’t panic. You’ll be sliding back into DMs in no time!