How to delete all messages in a WhatsApp chat?

How to delete all messages in a WhatsApp chat - briefly?

To delete all messages in a WhatsApp chat, follow these steps:

1. Open the chat you want to clear.
2. Tap on the three dots (⋮) at the top right corner of your screen and select "More" > "Delete Chat".

How to delete all messages in a WhatsApp chat - in detail?

Deleting all messages in a WhatsApp chat can be a necessary task for various reasons, such as freeing up storage space or maintaining privacy. Here’s a detailed guide on how to achieve this:

1. Backup Your Chat:

   Before you proceed with deleting messages, it is crucial to back up your chat history. WhatsApp allows you to create a backup of your chats, which can be restored later if needed. To do this:

   • Go to the WhatsApp settings by tapping on the three dots in the top right corner (Android) or the Settings tab at the bottom right (iPhone).
   • Navigate to Chats > Chat Backup.
   • Tap on "Backup" to create a backup of your messages.

2. Delete Messages Manually:

   WhatsApp does not provide a direct option to delete all messages in a chat at once. However, you can manually delete messages one by one or use the 'Clear Chat' feature, which deletes all messages except for starred ones. Here’s how:

   • Open the chat from which you want to delete messages.
   • Tap on the three dots in the top right corner (Android) or the contact name at the top (iPhone).
   • Select "More" and then tap on "Clear Chat."
   • Confirm by tapping "Clear" again. This will delete all messages except for starred ones.

3. Delete Starred Messages:

   If you want to delete even the starred messages, you’ll need to do it manually:

   • Long press on a message until a checkmark appears next to it.
   • Select additional messages by tapping on them.
   • Tap on the trash can icon at the top of the screen to delete the selected messages.

4. Using Third-Party Apps:

   While not officially endorsed by WhatsApp, some third-party applications claim to help in mass deletion of messages. However, be cautious when using such apps as they might compromise your privacy or security. Always ensure the app is from a trusted source.

5. Archiving Chats:

   If you prefer not to delete but rather hide certain chats, you can archive them:

   • Long press on the chat you wish to archive.
   • Tap on the archive icon at the top (it looks like a folder with a downward arrow).

By following these steps, you can effectively manage and delete messages in your WhatsApp chats. Always remember to back up important conversations before deleting them to avoid any data loss.