Can you disable youtube shorts
Last updated: April 1, 2026
Key Facts
- YouTube Settings on both web and mobile app allow you to adjust Shorts visibility and recommendations in your feed
- Browser extensions like "Return YouTube Dislike" and custom ad blockers can block Shorts feeds on desktop
- Parental controls and restricted mode in YouTube settings can prevent access to Shorts for accounts you manage
- Clearing YouTube history and watch preferences influences Shorts recommendations, though it doesn't completely disable the feature
- YouTube Shorts functionality differs across devices—web browsers offer more control options than mobile apps
Why Users Want to Disable Shorts
YouTube Shorts is Google's response to TikTok and Instagram Reels, featuring short vertical videos. While popular with many users, others find Shorts distracting, addictive, or unsuitable for their needs. Parents want to restrict Shorts for children, educators prefer long-form content, and some users simply prefer traditional YouTube videos. Understanding your options can help you customize your YouTube experience.
Desktop Browser Settings
On YouTube's web interface, you have several options. Access Settings through your account menu and adjust "Shorts" in the Playback section. You can limit Shorts appearance in your feed and recommendations. However, YouTube does not offer a complete disable option on the web platform. Browser extensions provide additional control—extensions designed for YouTube privacy and content filtering can block Shorts feeds entirely by hiding them from your interface.
Mobile App Adjustments
The YouTube mobile app includes "Settings" options accessible through your account menu. Navigate to "Content Preferences" and adjust recommendation settings. While mobile app control is more limited than desktop, you can manage notifications and adjust your search and watch history to influence recommendations. Clearing your history and marking videos as "Not Interested" trains the algorithm to reduce Shorts suggestions.
Parental Controls and Restricted Mode
If you're managing accounts for children or want strict content control, YouTube's Restricted Mode limits access to potentially mature content, including many Shorts. Family Link, Google's parental control service, offers comprehensive restrictions including disabling Shorts entirely for linked child accounts. These tools require account setup but provide the most complete control available.
Third-Party Browser Extensions
Several extensions modify YouTube's interface to hide Shorts. Extensions like "YouTube Nonstop" or general ad blockers with custom filters can remove Shorts feeds. Extensions also prevent autoplay and provide additional customization. Install extensions only from reputable sources, and review their privacy policies before granting permissions.
Related Questions
Does YouTube have a setting to stop recommending videos I don't like?
Yes, you can click 'Don't recommend channel' or 'Not interested' on any video's menu. You can also clear your watch history, which resets recommendations and reduces algorithmic personalization.
How do I prevent YouTube from autoplaying videos?
In YouTube Settings under 'Autoplay,' you can disable autoplay on your home page, watch page, or both. This setting works across devices where you're signed into your account.
Can I filter YouTube content by video length?
YouTube doesn't have a native length filter, but you can filter by upload date and duration using search operators. The 'Filter' button in search results offers limited length options.
Sources
- Google Support - Manage your YouTube settings Fair Use
- Wikipedia - YouTube Shorts CC-BY-SA-4.0