How to Fix the Instagram Couldn’t Refresh Feed Problem

Instagram’s “Couldn’t Refresh Feed” error is one of the most common issues users face. Whether you’re casually scrolling or checking updates for work, this error can pop up anytime. The good news is that it’s usually not permanent—simple steps can fix it immediately, though sometimes it may take a little longer depending on the cause.

The error mostly comes from four sources: mobile app glitches, outdated versions, internet or device issues, and sometimes Instagram’s own servers.

As a content creator, I’ve faced this problem more times than I can count. It can be frustrating, especially when you’re relying on Instagram for content or business. That’s why I researched and tested different fixes. In this blog, I’ll share the exact solutions that worked for me—so you can get your feed running smoothly again.

Why Does Instagram Say “Couldn’t Refresh Feed”?

There are several reasons why this error shows up:

• Poor or unstable internet connection – If your network is weak, Instagram can’t properly connect to its servers, which leads to the “Couldn’t Refresh Feed” message.
• Temporary Instagram glitches or downtime – Sometimes Instagram itself faces temporary issues or downtime. These are not permanent and usually resolve on their own.
• Phone storage or cache issues – A corrupted cache or low storage space can interrupt how the app functions. Clearing cache or freeing up storage often fixes this.
• Outdated Instagram app – If you’re running an older version of Instagram, bugs from that version might trigger this error. Updating to the latest version usually helps.
• Server crashes or outages – Occasionally, Instagram’s servers crash in certain regions, causing feeds not to refresh until the service is restored.
• API or account disconnection (for websites) – If you’ve embedded Instagram feeds on a website, API errors or account disconnections can also trigger this issue.

Quick Fixes for Instagram App Users

If you’re facing the “Couldn’t Refresh Feed” error on the Instagram app, here are some quick fixes you can try right away:

• Check your internet connection – Make sure your Wi-Fi or mobile data is stable and properly connected. Switch between Wi-Fi and mobile data to see if it works better.
• Restart the app or your phone – Sometimes a quick restart solves temporary glitches instantly.
• Log out and log back in – Signing out of Instagram and then logging back in often resets the session and fixes the error.
• Clear Instagram cache – A corrupted cache may block proper loading. Here’s how:
  - On Android: Go to Settings → Apps → Instagram → Storage → Clear Cache.
  - On iPhone: iOS doesn’t allow direct cache clearing. So, instead of clearing, you have to uninstall and then reinstall the app to reset the cache.
• Free up phone storage – Instagram needs enough space to function properly. Delete unnecessary files, photos, or unused apps to clear some space.

Advanced Fixes for Persistent Issues

If the quick fixes didn’t solve your “Couldn’t Refresh Feed” problem, try these additional solutions:

• Check if Instagram servers are down – Sometimes the issue isn’t on your end. Visit websites like DownDetector or check Instagram’s official status page to confirm if their servers are experiencing downtime.
• Report a problem inside Instagram – If the issue continues, you can report it directly within the app. Here’s how:
  - On Android / iPhone:
  Go to Instagram App → Profile (bottom-right) → Menu (☰ top-right) → Settings & Privacy → Help → Report a Problem → Something Isn’t Working.
  
  Describe the error (“Couldn’t Refresh Feed”) and submit the report.
  
  
• Switch between Wi-Fi and mobile data – Sometimes your network provider may cause temporary disruptions. If you’re on Wi-Fi, try switching to mobile data, or vice versa, and check if the feed loads.
• Reset network settings – If none of the above works, resetting your network can refresh all internet configurations on your phone.
  - On Android: Settings → System → Reset Options → Reset Wi-Fi, Mobile & Bluetooth.
  - On iPhone: Settings → General → Transfer or Reset iPhone → Reset → Reset Network Settings.
  

Want to Know:  Embed Instagram Reel On website

Fixing “Instagram Couldn’t Refresh Feed” on Websites

If your Instagram feed widget on your website stops updating, here are some possible reasons and fixes:

• Why Instagram feed widgets stop updating – Sometimes the issue happens due to outdated API tokens, expired connections, or technical glitches with the plugin or widget you’re using.
• Reconnect your Instagram account – Go to your website plugin or widget dashboard, disconnect your Instagram account, and reconnect it again. This refreshes the token and usually fixes update issues.
• Upgrade your widget/plugin plan – Some plugins allow only limited updates or feeds in their free or trial versions. If your feed isn’t refreshing, upgrading to a paid plan may resolve the issue.
• Switch to a Business or Creator account for API access – Instagram’s newer API works best with Business or Creator accounts. Switching ensures more stable updates and fewer refresh errors.
• Contact support if using a third-party plugin – If you rely on a plugin or external tool, reach out to their support team for troubleshooting. They often provide specific fixes for refresh or sync issues.

How to Prevent the Error in the Future

Fixing the error once is great, but preventing it from coming back is even better. Here are some proactive steps you can take:

• Keep Instagram updated – Always use the latest version of the Instagram app. Updates fix bugs, improve performance, and reduce chances of feed errors.
• Regularly clear cache and storage – Overloaded cache or low storage can cause issues. Cleaning them up keeps the app running smoothly.
• Maintain a stable internet connection – Whether it’s Wi-Fi or mobile data, make sure your internet is strong and consistent, especially during important tasks like posting or going live.
• Avoid outdated plugins for website embedding – Old or unsupported plugins often fail to sync with Instagram’s latest API. Instead, use trusted solutions like ReelUp, which allows you to embed Reels seamlessly without slowing down your site.
• Ensure your account is linked with Meta (Facebook Business Suite) – A properly linked account integrates better with Instagram’s systems and helps avoid sudden disconnections or sync problems.

Myths Busted: Clearing Common Misconceptions

• It doesn’t always mean you’re shadowbanned – Seeing the “Couldn’t Refresh Feed” error doesn’t automatically mean Instagram shadowbanned you. It’s usually a technical or network hiccup.
• Hashtags don’t directly cause this issue – Using trending or repeated hashtags won’t trigger this error. Hashtags affect reach, not feed refreshing.
• Using a VPN ≠ instant error – VPNs can sometimes slow down or interrupt your connection, which may lead to this error, but the VPN itself isn’t the root cause.
• It’s not always your phone’s fault – Storage, cache, or outdated apps can play a role, but many times the issue lies with Instagram’s own servers.
• The error is not permanent – “Couldn’t Refresh Feed” is usually temporary. With a stable internet connection, cache cleared, or after a quick app update, it goes away on its own.

What Not to Do When Facing the Error

• Don’t keep reinstalling the app repeatedly – Reinstalling once can help, but doing it again and again is just a waste of time. It won’t magically solve the issue.
• Don’t use unsafe third-party apps to “fix” Instagram – Stick to authorized apps only. Before trying any tool, check Shopify reviews, browse Reddit threads, or read trusted blogs to be sure it’s legit.
• Don’t reset your phone unless absolutely necessary – Resetting should be your last resort. Most of the time, the problem is either with the app or Instagram’s servers, not your entire phone.

Preventive Maintenance Checklist

• ✅ Keep your app updated – Always install the latest version of Instagram to avoid bugs.
• ✅ Clear cache weekly – Regularly clear Instagram’s cache to keep it running smooth.
• ✅ Maintain storage space – Don’t let your phone run out of memory; free up space when needed.
• ✅ Stay calm, don’t panic – “Couldn’t refresh feed” is common and mostly temporary.
• ✅ Avoid overloading your phone with too many apps – Too many apps slow down performance and cause conflicts.
• ✅ Check internet stability often – Make sure your Wi-Fi or mobile data is steady, especially during important tasks.
• ✅ Recheck account linking – Ensure your account stays properly connected with Meta/Instagram servers.

Conclusion

The “Instagram Couldn’t Refresh Feed” error might feel annoying, but in most cases, it’s temporary and easy to fix. Whether it’s a weak internet connection, a corrupted cache, or Instagram itself facing downtime, the solutions we discussed above usually get things running smoothly again.

The key is to start simple—check your internet, restart the app, and clear the cache. If those don’t work, move on to advanced fixes like resetting your network or updating the app. And if you’re managing an Instagram feed on your website, reconnecting your account or upgrading your plugin plan usually solves the issue.

Remember: this error doesn’t mean your account is banned or lost. It’s just a technical hiccup that can be resolved with a few smart steps. By keeping your app updated, maintaining enough phone storage, and ensuring stable internet, you can prevent the error from coming back.

So, the next time you see “Couldn’t Refresh Feed,” don’t panic—follow these steps, and you’ll be back to scrolling, posting, and engaging in no time.

FAQs on “Instagram Couldn’t Refresh Feed”

1. Why does Instagram keep saying “Couldn’t Refresh Feed”?
Ans.This error usually happens because of poor internet, a corrupted cache, an outdated app, or Instagram’s servers being down. Sometimes, if you’re using Instagram on a website, expired API tokens or disconnected accounts can also trigger it.

2. Does this error mean my account is banned or shadowbanned?
Ans.No. This is a technical error, not a ban. Shadowbans affect visibility and reach, but they don’t block your feed from refreshing.

3. Will clearing cache delete my photos, saved posts, or drafts?
Ans. No, clearing cache won’t delete your photos, saved posts, or drafts. It only removes temporary files stored by the app. On iPhone, reinstalling the app may log you out, but your account data is safe.

4. Why does the error happen only on one account but not others?
Ans. Sometimes one account session becomes corrupted. Logging out and back in usually fixes this. In rare cases, if Instagram detects suspicious login activity, it may temporarily block refreshes for that account.

5. Can VPNs or proxies cause the “Couldn’t Refresh Feed” issue?
Ans. Yes. VPNs and proxies sometimes slow down or block Instagram servers from connecting. If you’re using one, try disabling it and check if your feed refreshes normally.

6. Why does my Instagram work on mobile data but not Wi-Fi (or vice versa)?
Ans. This usually happens if your Wi-Fi router has DNS or firewall issues. Restart your router, reset network settings, or switch between Wi-Fi and mobile data to fix it.

7. How do I know if Instagram’s servers are down?
Ans. Check websites like DownDetector or Instagram’s official status page. If many users in your region are reporting the same error, it’s likely a server-side issue.

8. Does reinstalling Instagram always fix the error?
Ans. Reinstalling often helps because it resets cache, permissions, and background settings. However, if the issue is due to server outages or poor internet, reinstalling won’t make a difference.

9. How do I fix “Couldn’t Refresh Feed” on my website’s Instagram widget?
Ans. Reconnect your Instagram account in the widget settings, make sure you’re using a Business or Creator account, and upgrade your plugin plan if you’ve hit feed or view limits.

10. Can outdated phones or OS versions cause this error?
Ans. Yes. If your device runs an older operating system, the latest Instagram updates may not work properly. Keeping your phone updated helps avoid compatibility issues.