DeviantArt deletion is permanent and cannot be undone once completed
When you delete a DeviantArt account, the site removes your profile, all uploaded artwork, comments, messages, and account history. DeviantArt does not keep a backup or recovery option after deletion is final. If you change your mind later, you cannot restore the account or any of its contents—you would need to create a new account from scratch.
Deletion is different from deactivation. A deactivated account hides your profile temporarily but keeps your data on DeviantArt's servers. You can reactivate a deactivated account at any time. Deletion removes everything permanently.
Key Takeaways
- DeviantArt account deletion is permanent and irreversible; all artwork, comments, and messages are removed.
- You must log in to your account and navigate to Settings to start the deletion process yourself.
- DeviantArt will ask you to confirm your password and reason for leaving before processing the deletion.
- The deletion takes effect immediately, though it may take a few days for cached versions of your profile to disappear from search engines.
- If you own a DeviantArt shop or have active commissions, settle those obligations before deleting.
Steps to delete your account through Settings
Log into your DeviantArt account. Go to the menu in the top right corner and select Settings. On the Settings page, scroll to the bottom and look for the section labeled Deactivate or Delete Account. Click the option to delete your account permanently.
DeviantArt will display a warning that explains deletion is permanent. Read this carefully. The site will then ask you to enter your password to confirm your identity. Type your password and click the button to proceed.
You may see a field asking why you are leaving. This is optional, but filling it out helps DeviantArt understand user feedback. After you confirm, the deletion request is submitted and your account is removed from the site.
What happens to your artwork and comments after deletion
All artwork you uploaded to DeviantArt is deleted from the platform. If you shared your work elsewhere—on your own website, social media, or in other portfolios—those copies remain where you posted them. DeviantArt only removes what was stored on its servers.
Comments you left on other users' artwork are also removed. If someone replies to your comment after deletion, they will see that the comment no longer exists. Your username will no longer appear in the comment thread.
Messages you sent to other users are deleted from your account, but the recipients may still see those messages in their inboxes. DeviantArt does not retroactively remove messages from other people's accounts.
Timing: how long deletion takes to complete
Your account is removed from DeviantArt immediately after you confirm the deletion. You will not be able to log in or access your profile right away.
Search engines like Google may still show a cached version of your DeviantArt profile in search results for a few days or weeks. This is not because your account still exists—it is because Google's cache has not yet refreshed. You can request removal from Google Search Console if you want to speed this up, but the account itself is already gone from DeviantArt.
Before you delete: back up your work if you want to keep it
If you have artwork you want to preserve, download it before you delete your account. DeviantArt does not provide a bulk download tool, so you will need to save files individually. Open each artwork page, right-click on the image, and select Save image as to download it to your computer.
For high-resolution versions, check whether the artist (you) uploaded a downloadable file. Some DeviantArt users enable downloads so viewers can get the full-quality version. If you set this up, the download link will be visible on the artwork page.
If you have a large portfolio, this process takes time. Plan to spend an hour or more depending on how many pieces you have. Do this before you start the deletion process, because once deletion is complete, you cannot access your account to retrieve anything.
Settling obligations before deletion
If you run a DeviantArt shop or have active commissions, complete or cancel those orders before deleting your account. Buyers will not be able to contact you after deletion, and unfinished work creates disputes.
If you have received payment for work you have not completed, refund the buyer or deliver the finished product. Document the transaction so there is a record if the buyer contacts DeviantArt support later.
If you have subscribed to other users' content or memberships, those subscriptions will end when your account is deleted. You will not be charged further, but you will lose access to any exclusive content you were receiving.
If you want to leave but keep your account active
Deactivation is an option if you want to step away from DeviantArt without losing your account permanently. A deactivated account is hidden from public view—your profile does not appear in searches, and other users cannot visit it. However, your data remains on DeviantArt's servers.
You can reactivate a deactivated account at any time by logging back in. This restores your profile, artwork, and all account history. Deactivation is useful if you think you might return to DeviantArt later.
To deactivate instead of delete, go to Settings and select the deactivation option. The process is similar to deletion, but your account can be brought back.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I delete my DeviantArt account if I forgot my password?
No. DeviantArt requires you to log in and confirm your password before deletion. If you cannot log in, use the password reset link on the login page. Enter your email address, and DeviantArt will send you a link to reset your password. Once you have reset it, log in and proceed with deletion.
Will DeviantArt delete my account if I ask customer support?
DeviantArt support cannot delete your account for you. You must do it yourself through Settings. This is a security measure to prevent unauthorized deletion. If you cannot access your account, contact DeviantArt support to regain access, then delete it yourself.
What if I delete my account and then want it back?
Deletion is permanent and cannot be reversed. You cannot recover a deleted account or its contents. If you want to return to DeviantArt, you must create a new account. Your old username may become available for others to use after a period of time.
Does deleting my account remove my username so no one else can use it?
No. After deletion, your username eventually becomes available for other users to claim. DeviantArt does not reserve deleted usernames. If your username is important to you, consider deactivating instead of deleting.
Will my DeviantArt deletion affect other accounts I have on different websites?
No. Deleting your DeviantArt account only affects DeviantArt. If you have accounts on other art sites, social media, or services, those remain active and unaffected. You would need to delete those accounts separately if you want to remove them.