How to Delete Wallpaper on iPhone

By Zygimantas 5 min read
How to Delete Wallpaper on iPhone

Stop searching! Yes, it’s not as easy as it once was to remove a wallpaper on your iPhone, BUT it’s easier than you think, and we’ll show you how! Follow this quick step-by-step guide to delete your existing wallpapers in just a few minutes. And if you're looking for a fresh new look, check out some of the best free wallpapers to upgrade your screen instantly.


What is a Wallpaper?

Think of a wallpaper as your phone’s style statement. It's the background that brings your iPhone's Lock Screen and Home Screen to life, showing off your vibe and personality. Whether it’s a bold graphic, a minimalist design, or a crisp iPhone wallpaper, it’s what sets the mood every time you unlock your device. But sometimes, a wallpaper can get old fast. Whether you want to ditch an old image, accidentally set the wrong one, need to delete that awkward selfie with your ex ASAP, or just crave a fresh start, removing a wallpaper is quick and easy.

In this guide, we’ll show you how to delete wallpaper on your iPhone step by step. Plus, if you’re ready for an upgrade, we’ve got a game-changer for you—Zedge, the ultimate app for the most epic wallpapers, including stunning 4K iPhone wallpapers for a next-level display.

How to delete a wallpaper on your iPhone: Step by Step Tutorial

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How to Delete a Wallpaper on iPhone: Step-by-Step Guide

Cleaning up your iPhone’s wallpaper gallery takes just a few taps. Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Lock Your iPhone

First things first, lock your phone. If it’s already locked, you’re good to go. If not, press the side button (on newer iPhones) or the top button (on older models) to lock it.

Step 1: Lock Your iPhone

Step 2: Long Press on the Lock Screen

Wake your iPhone by tapping the screen or pressing the side button. Then, press and hold on the Lock Screen to enter wallpaper selection mode. Unlock the wallpaper gallery using Face ID, Touch ID, or your passcode.

Step 2: Long Press on the Lock Screen

Step 3: Swipe Up on the Wallpaper You Want to Delete

A new screen will open with all of your different wallpapers. Find the wallpaper you no longer want and swipe up on it. A small trash can icon will appear at the top of the screen.

Step 3: Swipe Up on the Wallpaper You Want to Delete

Step 4: Tap the Trash Can Icon

Tap the trash can to remove the wallpaper from your collection. If you don’t see the trash icon, make sure you’re swiping up on an individual wallpaper and not a pair (like one linked to Focus mode).

🛠 Having trouble?

  • If the trash can isn’t appearing, double-check that you’re editing a wallpaper you added yourself—default iOS wallpapers can’t be removed.
  • If the swipe-up gesture isn’t working, try restarting your phone and attempting again.
  • Still stuck? Head to Settings > Wallpaper and manage wallpapers from there.
Step 4: Tap the Trash Can Icon

Step 5: Confirm Deletion

A confirmation pop-up will appear. Tap “Delete This Wallpaper” to finalize the removal. And that’s it! The wallpaper is gone for good.

Step 5: Confirm Deletion

Note: You can only delete additional wallpapers you’ve added. The default iPhone wallpapers that came with iOS cannot be removed, but you can always set a new one over them.


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Explore different wallpaper categories

Animals
ButterflyWolf
CatDog
Anime
KuromiCinnamoroll
ItachiLuffy gear 5
Bollywood
SrkHindi
BhootVijay hd
Brands
MsiRazer
StussyVersace
Cars & Vehicles
JdmHot wheels
Bmw 4kZx10r
Comics
CartoonStitchs
MarvelSteven universe
Designs
PreppyAesthetics
Pink aestheticMinimalist
Drawings
DragonMermaid
FairyWlop
Entertainment
LivelyPeppa pig
Wall-EPeppa pig house
Funny
Skibidi toiletMemes
BananaCrazy
Games
OverwatchLeague of legends
ValorantDoom
Holidays
HalloweenHappy birthday
Preppy halloweenNovember
Logos
Iphone logoTwitter
Mahindra logoAmiri logo
Love
Pink bowPink heart
Aesthetic heartCute love
Music
VinylLofi
Playboi cartiDd osama
Nature
Great wall of ChinaFall
FloralBing
News–Politics
Make America Great AgainObama
AmericaUsa flag
Other
CutesLive
CoolCute black
Pattern
BeigeBrick
Pink preppySilver
People
Nicole WallaceFreya jkt48
Baby photoYuta
Sayings
MotivationalQuotes
Dark motivationalAesthetic quotes
Space
DuneStar
Enigma portalBeautiful moon
Spiritual
JesusBible verse
Krishna photoHanuman hd
Sports
MessiSoccer
Lamine yamalLebron James
Technology
Mac osSamsung galaxy
14 pro maxUbuntu

FAQs

How do I remove wallpapers on iPhone?

Press and hold your Lock Screen, swipe up on the wallpaper you want to delete, tap the trash can, and confirm.

How do I delete wallpapers on iOS 17?

The process is the same as previous iOS versions: Long press on the Lock Screen, swipe up, tap the trash icon, and confirm.

How do I delete a Lock Screen wallpaper?

Just enter wallpaper selection mode by pressing and holding on the Lock Screen, then swipe up on the wallpaper you no longer want and tap delete.

Can I delete multiple wallpapers at once?

Currently, iOS only allows you to delete one wallpaper at a time through the Lock Screen. However, you can manage wallpapers by adding widgets or choosing from multiple photos in your Photos app.

Can I use my own photos as a new wallpaper?

Yes! When setting a new wallpaper, you can choose from your Photos app and customize your Home Screen and Lock Screen to your liking.