If you’ve ever sent a message by mistake or second-guessed what you wrote, Facebook Messenger allows you to take it back.
Whether you're using the mobile app or the desktop version, this feature makes it easy to remove messages within a short time after sending them.
However, there are a few important details you need to know about how it works.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to unsend a message, what limitations to consider, and everything else you need to make the most of this handy feature.
Let’s dive in!
Also Read: What Happens When You Cancel a Facebook Friend Request?
Can You Really Unsend a Message on Facebook?
Absolutely! Facebook Messenger lets you retract a sent message—be it a text, photo, or even a file.
This feature works across both mobile apps and the desktop version. However, there’s a catch: you only have a 10-minute window to unsend the message after it’s been sent.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Unsend a Message on Facebook
Here’s how you can take back your message like it never happened (well, almost):
On the Mobile App (Android/iOS):
To unsend a message on the Facebook Messenger mobile app (for both Android and iOS), start by opening the app and navigating to the conversation containing the message you want to remove.
Once you’ve found the message, tap and hold it until a menu appears. From this menu, select "Remove" and then choose "Unsend for Everyone."
This will delete the message from both your side and the recipient’s side of the conversation.
On the Desktop Website:
To unsend a message on the Facebook Messenger desktop website, start by logging into Facebook on your browser and clicking on the Messenger icon.
Once you’re in the chat that contains the message you want to remove, hover over the message until you see three dots (…) appear.
Click on these dots and select "Remove." Then, choose "Unsend for Everyone" to delete the message for all participants in the chat.
Things You Should Know Before Using the Unsend Feature
While the unsend feature on Facebook Messenger is incredibly useful, it’s important to understand its limitations before using it.
First, there’s a time limit: you can only unsend a message within 10 minutes of sending it. After that, the option disappears.
Then, if the recipient has already seen the message or received a notification, unsending it doesn’t erase their memory, though the content will no longer be visible in the chat.
When you unsend a message, Facebook replaces it with a note saying “You unsent a message,” which maintains transparency in the conversation.
Another key point is that even if a message is unsent, it can still be reported if it violates Facebook’s Community Standards, as Facebook retains unsent messages for up to 14 days for moderation purposes.
Finally, while the recipient will get a notification if you unsend a message, if they download their Facebook data, they’ll see that a message was removed, although the content won’t be accessible.
Pro Tips for Using Facebook Messenger's Unsend Feature
- Be Quick: The 10-minute window is shorter than you think. Act swiftly if you need to retract a message.
- Double-Check Before Sending: Prevention is better than cure. Take a moment to review your messages before hitting send.
- Use "Remove for You": If you only want to clear the message from your own view without alerting the other person, select “Remove for You” instead of “Unsend for Everyone.”
- Know Your Audience: If you’re in a group chat, remember that all participants will see the “unsent” note.
How to Unsend a Message on Facebook FAQs
Can You Unsend a Message Without Anyone Knowing?
Not entirely. While the message’s content is removed, the chat will display a note that says you unsent something. There’s no way to hide the fact that a message was removed.
What Happens When You Unsend a Message?
The message disappears for everyone in the chat, and a note replaces it. If the recipient has notifications enabled, they might still see a preview of the message before it’s unsent.
Can You Unsend Messages on Facebook Marketplace?
Yes! The process is the same as regular Messenger chats. You can tap and hold a message, then select “Remove” and “Unsend for Everyone.”
Is There a Way to Delete Messages After the 10-Minute Limit?
Unfortunately, no. Once the 10-minute window closes, the only option is to delete the message from your view by selecting “Remove for You.”
Does Unsending Work for All Message Types?
Yes! You can unsend texts, photos, videos, GIFs, and even files.
Why Use the Unsend Feature?
The unsend feature can save you from embarrassing situations, whether it’s an accidental message, a typo, or simply changing your mind. It’s also great for correcting errors in professional or personal chats.
Final Thoughts
Facebook Messenger’s unsend feature is a lifesaver for those “oops” moments, but it’s not foolproof.
Whether you’re messaging a friend, a colleague, or a Marketplace seller, the ability to unsend a message offers a safety net—but only if you act quickly.
So, the next time you’re unsure about a message, remember: you’ve got 10 minutes to make it right. Now go ahead and message with confidence!
Also Read: What Happens When You Cancel a Facebook Friend Request?
