How do I free up iCloud storage occupied by deleted messages?

It doesn't make any difference to storage used unless you permanently delete them --> Delete messages and attachments in Messages on iPhone - Apple Support

- "Deleted messages and attachments remain in your Recently Deleted folder for up to 30 days, and you can recover them." If you want to free up the storage immediately, permanently delete them. Until the 30 days are up the messages are still in iCloud, just in a special area until they are removed automatically after 30 days. This is so you can recover them should you so wish.

Permanently remove recently deleted messages and attachments

Deleted messages and attachments remain in the Recently Deleted folder for 30 days, but you can permanently remove them before that.

1. Go to the Messages app on your iPhone.
2. Tap  at the top of the conversation list, then tap Recently Deleted.
3. Select the conversations whose messages you want to delete permanently, tap , then tap Delete.
4. Important: This can’t be undone.

“How do I free up iCloud storage occupied by deleted messages?: I'm trying to manage iCloud storage; I have the standard 5GB and according to iCloud about 4.97GB is used. It indicates that 94% is messages. Is that possible? I have deleted many messages and it does not seem to have made any difference. Does anyone have any ideas?“

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Deleting your Messages in iCloud:

1. Go to: Settings
2. Tap: [your name] (top item)
3. Tap: iCloud
4. Tap: Messages
5. Tap: Manage Storage
6. Tap: Turn Off and Delete from iCloud
7. Proceed from There.

The other factor is that to get 5GB of messages, unless you have many millions of texts. they must have photo or video attachments. Theres a good chance they save to Photos anyway so you may be doubled up.

Don't select Keep messages "Forever" unless you really have to. Try keep for "1 year" for a quick clean out.

Just like Whatsapp, if you don't clear them out and move to Photos app you will easily lose control of your storage.

Limnos wrote:

I agree it is preference and management style. The OP was trying to use a more targeted method of reducing their storage issue and I wished to note that it is still possible to use devices with Apple's free iCloud space. You simply need to be familiar with some of the details of how iCloud works such as iCloud continuing to store deleted items (not just messages) until 30 days have passed. Then too, while it is a good idea to back up photos and other information, it does not have to be done using iCloud.

I understand how iCloud works, so I'm not sure I need it explained to me. I simply offered a different perspective, which for me is to not have to micromanage iCloud and ensure there's enough space at all times, which frees up my time to do other things in my life. It doesn't cost much and it makes life simpler. Everyone can do what makes the most sense to them.

5GB is simply not enough space. Most people run out of space relatively quickly. For $1 per month, you can go from 5GB to 50GB of iCloud Storage. You can continue to struggle to stay within the free 5GB of storage, which is honestly frustrating. Or for the cost of about 2 Starbucks premium drinks increase your storage option.

See this --> Buy iCloud+ or upgrade your current storage plan - Apple Support

I agree it is preference and management style. The OP was trying to use a more targeted method of reducing their storage issue and I wished to note that it is still possible to use devices with Apple's free iCloud space. You simply need to be familiar with some of the details of how iCloud works such as iCloud continuing to store deleted items (not just messages) until 30 days have passed. Then too, while it is a good idea to back up photos and other information, it does not have to be done using iCloud.

lobsterghost1 wrote:

5GB is simply not enough space.

It really depends upon how you use iCloud. I have a computer and an iPhone using iCloud and the last time I looked I was using about 3.5GB. It's about time that I removed all but 2 or 3 of my photos and put them on archive drives. Then I'd be back to two-something GB used. I have only once had Apple email me about low iCloud space. I discovered that an app I use was using an inexplicable 2GB data storage. I think the app is buggy but unfortunately it is unique and I need it so I just have to keep an eye on it. Now I delete and reload the app once every few weeks and that clears a GB or so. Since then I typically am only using a few GB. And yes, I do have my iPhone backing up to iCloud.

Everyone should have their own way. Me personally, I'd rather pay for more space and never have to worry about managing my data as I now have more than enough space.

This may help -->

Ptwigg wrote:

Thank you!

Youre welcome.

You're welcome.