Instagram Following Limits: Guidelines and Best Practices for Managing Your Account
Instagram does not post the exact formula for its following limits, but it is clear that once you follow too many accounts in a short period of time, your account will be temporarily blocked. This block forces you to wait until the next day before attempting to follow more people.
Daily Following Limit
Instagram has set a general daily limit for following accounts. Typically, you can follow up to around 200 accounts per day. However, this limit may vary depending on the age of your account, your activity level, and any previous policy violations. More established accounts may enjoy slightly less strict limits compared to newer ones.
Hourly Limit
Instagram also enforces an hourly limit to prevent spamming. It is advised to follow no more than 30 to 40 accounts per hour. This helps maintain a consistent and natural pace that aligns with the platform's guidelines.
Factors Influencing Following Limits
Account Age
Newer accounts often have stricter limits as Instagram closely monitors them for any signs of spam-like activity. As your account ages, your limits may gradually increase if you continue to engage naturally and consistently.
Account Activity
Accounts that exhibit consistent and authentic activity, such as regular posting, interaction, and engagement, are less likely to face strict following limitations. Conversely, accounts that show signs of spamming or suspicious behavior may be subject to more stringent rules.
Previous Violations
Accounts that have previously violated Instagram's community guidelines or terms of use may face stricter limits. If your account has been flagged for spamming or other violations, you should expect a higher following limit tolerance.
Risks of Exceeding Limits
Temporary Blocks
If you exceed the following limits, Instagram may temporarily block you from following any more accounts. The block period can vary from a few hours to a few days and is designed to prevent abusive behavior.
Account Flags
Consistently exceeding the limits or engaging in suspicious activity can lead to your account being flagged by Instagram, which can result in longer-term restrictions or even account suspension.
Shadowbanning
Excessive and aggressive following behavior can contribute to shadowbanning. During this status, your content may become less visible in hashtags and search results, making it harder for your audience to discover your posts.
Best Practices for Following Accounts
Natural Growth
Instead of flooding your account with new follows, focus on gradually expanding your network. Ensure that the accounts you follow are relevant to your interests or community. This approach fosters a more authentic connection and helps maintain a healthy following count.
Engage Authentically
Whether you're new or established, engage with your followers authentically. Like and comment on posts from new accounts to build genuine connections. Authentic engagement goes a long way in fostering a supportive and engaged community.
Avoid Automation
Do not use bots or automation tools to follow accounts. While these tools might seem convenient, they violate Instagram's terms of service and can result in account suspension. Instead, follow accounts organically, and your efforts will be rewarded.
Monitor Limits
Keep an eye on the number of accounts you follow daily. Staying well within the limit helps avoid triggering Instagram's spam detection. Regularly checking your activity can also help you adjust your following pace and ensure compliance with community guidelines.
Conclusion
To ensure your account remains in good standing and to build a meaningful community on Instagram, follow the guidelines and maintain a balanced and authentic approach to following accounts. Prioritize quality interactions over quantity to enhance your social media experience and grow your following sustainably.