Spotify makes it easy to create and customize playlists for any mood, activity, or genre. But if you’ve created too many or simply want to clean up your library, you may be wondering how to delete playlists on Spotify.
Whether you’re using the app on your phone, computer, or web browser, this guide walks you through every method to remove a playlist, hide it from your profile, or unfollow playlists you didn’t create.
Why You Might Want to Delete a Spotify Playlist
There are many reasons users choose to delete a playlist:
You created too many and want to declutter
Your music taste has changed
You no longer need a workout or travel mix
You want to rebrand or start a new playlist
You accidentally made a duplicate playlist
No matter your reason, Spotify makes it easy to manage and delete playlists on any device.
What Happens When You Delete a Spotify Playlist?
Before deleting, here’s what to know:
- You can only delete playlists you created
- Deleted playlists are removed from your library but not from followers’ libraries
- You can recover deleted playlists within 90 days using a web browser
- If you’re following a playlist made by someone else, you can only unfollow it—not delete it
Let’s go over all the options depending on your device.
How to Delete a Playlist on Spotify Mobile App (iPhone or Android)
To delete a playlist you created:
- Open the Spotify app
- Tap Your Library
- Select Playlists
- Find and open the playlist you want to delete
- Tap the three dots (•••) near the top
- Select Delete playlist
- Confirm when prompted
This removes the playlist from your account and devices.
To unfollow a playlist:
- Go to the playlist you want to remove
- Tap the three dots
- Tap Remove from your library
This works for public or shared playlists you didn’t create.
How to Delete a Playlist on Spotify Desktop App (Windows or Mac)
To delete a playlist you created:
- Open the Spotify desktop app
- Click Your Library
- Select Playlists and click on the one you want to delete
- Right-click the playlist name
- Select Delete
- Confirm when prompted
The playlist disappears from your sidebar and account.
To unfollow a playlist:
- Go to the playlist
- Click the green heart or “Following” button
- The playlist is now removed from your library
This does not affect the playlist for other users or the original creator.
How to Delete a Playlist on Spotify Web Player
Using a browser to manage your playlists is just as easy:
- Go to Spotify Web Player and log in
- Navigate to Your Library > Playlists
- Click the playlist you want to delete
- Click the three dots (•••)
- Select Delete
- Confirm deletion
To unfollow, follow the same steps and click Remove from your Library instead.
How to Recover a Deleted Playlist on Spotify
Accidentally deleted a playlist? No problem.
- Go to Spotify Account Overview in a web browser
- Log in to your Spotify account
- Click Recover playlists in the sidebar
- Find the playlist you want and click Restore
Your playlist will reappear in your library within minutes.
This option is only available on the web, not within the mobile or desktop apps.
How to Make a Spotify Playlist Private Instead of Deleting
If you just want to hide a playlist but not delete it:
- Open the playlist
- Tap or click the three dots (•••)
- Select Make private
Private playlists are only visible to you. You can also remove them from your profile without making them private.
To remove from profile only:
- Tap the three dots
- Select Remove from profile
This keeps the playlist in your library but hides it from public view.
Tips for Managing Spotify Playlists
- Group similar playlists by using folders (desktop only)
- Sort playlists alphabetically or by date added
- Use descriptive names and cover images for easy navigation
- Delete or archive old playlists periodically to stay organized
You can always start fresh by creating new playlists based on your updated preferences.
FAQs About Deleting Spotify Playlists
Can I delete a playlist I didn’t create?
No. You can only unfollow it to remove it from your library. The original creator still owns it.
Will deleting a playlist remove it from my followers’ accounts?
No. If others have saved or followed your playlist, it remains in their libraries unless they remove it manually.
How do I delete multiple playlists at once?
There is no official bulk delete feature. You must delete playlists one by one.
Can I recover a playlist after deleting it?
Yes. Use the Spotify web account dashboard to recover deleted playlists within 90 days.
Does deleting a playlist cancel my subscription?
No. Deleting playlists has no effect on your Spotify Premium or Free subscription status.