How to Delete Backups on iCloud on iPhone/Computer

iCloud has traditionally served as a comprehensive solution for iPhone backup and data security. However, as data needs continue to rise, the limited free 5GB iCloud storage allocation can quickly become insufficient. Picture this: you're using an Apple device with 128 or 256 GB of space, and your 5GB of free iCloud storage is gobbled up in no time.

The good news is, that you're not stuck with the old backups cluttering your iCloud. You have the flexibility to delete iCloud backups and make room for new ones. If you're wondering how to delete backups on iCloud to effectively manage iCloud space, this guide has you covered.

We've compiled all the methods you need to efficiently clear out the old backups from your iCloud account, so you can begin with a clean slate. Let's dive in.

Warm tip: When can you delete old backups on iCloud?
You'd better have another full iPhone backup saved locally in addition to your iCloud backup. Or you may end up losing your important data. We have offered you a quick way to make it in the Bonus part.

Part 1. How to delete backup from iCloud on iPhone

It is a straightforward process to delete backup from iCloud on iPhone. Here’s the step-by-step guide on deleting iPhone backups from iPhone directly.

Step 1. Go to the Settings app on your iPhone > Tap [your name] > Tap on the iCloud > Tap Manage Storage.

Step 2. Tap Backup > Choose the device whose backup you want to delete > Scroll down to the bottom to tap Delete Backup.

Step 3. When a window prompts, tap Turn Off & Delete to confirm the deletion.

Part 2. How to delete backup from iCloud on PC

If you prefer a larger screen to check and delete backup from iCloud, you can try the tools introduced in this part. Whether deleting old backup with iCloud for Windows or deleting unwanted files one by one using FoneTool, you can save much iCloud storage space after deletion.

Option 1. Via iCloud for Windows

If you’d like to delete backup from iCloud on PC, you can rely on the iCloud for Windows software. Make sure you have downloaded and installed the latest version of iCloud for Windows on your computer, and follow the simple steps below to learn how to delete backups on iCloud via iCloud for Windows.

Open iCloud for Windows on your PC > Click Storage > Click Backups to select the backup you’d like to delete > Click Delete to confirm.

Note: When you delete old backups on iCloud, the iCloud backup will be turned off on your iPhone, you can turn it on again from the Settings app on your iPhone.

Option 2. Via FoneTool

FoneTool stands out as a professional data management tool for iOS devices, enabling you to check and delete unwanted files from iCloud backup directly and effortlessly. It allows delete notes, videos, photos, contacts from iCloud, as well as files saved in your iCloud Drive. Free download the tool to your computer, and learn how to delete backup from iCloud using FoneTool.

? If you just want to delete files from iCloud but keep them on devices, please ensure you have disabled iCloud sync functions on all your connected devices before going through the steps below. 

Step 1. Launch FoneTool > Choose My iCloud from its left pane > Sign in with your iCloud account, and enter the verification code to confirm.

Step 2. Click Manage iCloud > Click each icon to preview and choose the files you'd like to delete from iCloud > Click Delete to confirm.

Part 3. How to delete backup on iCloud - Mac

If you are using a Mac, you can delete iCloud backups directly from your Mac like what you can do on Windows PC. Here’s how to delete backups on iCloud on Mac.

Step 1. Click on the Apple icon and go to System Preferences on your Mac.

Step 2. Click on your Apple ID > Choose iCloud option > Click on Manage to delete old backups.

Step 3. Click Backups and select any backup that you wish to delete > Click Delete to confirm your operation.

Bonus: Fully backup iPhone to PC locally

Wondering how to backup your iPhone to a PC? For a seamless experience, we highly recommend utilizing FoneTool to backup your iPhone's data to your PC before taking the step of deleting old backups from iCloud.

The best part? With just a few simple clicks, you can backup everything, including contacts, images, videos, call history, voice memos, music, apps, and much more from iPhone to PC. It's a convenient and comprehensive solution for safeguarding your data.

Step 1. Connect your iPhone to computer via USB. Launch FoneTool and choose Phone Backup > Click Get Started icon under Full Backup to continue.

Step 2. If needed, enable Backup Encryption to protect your privacy > Choose a backup storage path > Click Start Backup and wait until it finishes.

Having a local backup on your PC provides you with a copy of your iPhone's data that you can access even without an internet connection. It can be a lifesaver in case your device is lost, damaged, or if you encounter any issues with your iCloud backups.

Conclusion

In conclusion, managing your iCloud storage is crucial to ensure that your backups remain efficient and that you don't run out of space. By following the methods outlined in this article, you have known how to delete backups on iCloud on your iPhone, PC, and Mac. Additionally, creating a local backup of your iPhone on your PC adds an extra layer of security and accessibility for your valuable data.