Selling your iPad? Here’s how to erase all its data

Over time, even the most reliable iPads can start feeling overloaded with old apps you rarely use, settings, and files you no longer need. Restoring your iPad to factory settings wipes everything and takes it back to its original condition. You can do this right from the iPad’s settings or by connecting it to a computer using Finder or iTunes. Just remember to back up anything important first, since once the reset is done, it permanently deletes all data. With that sorted, here’s a step-by-step guide on how to restore your iPad to factory settings.

How to restore your iPad to factory settings

Restoring your iPad to factory settings can make it feel brand new again, removing unnecessary files, clearing glitches, and wiping all your data in one step. 

However, before you restore your iPad, always back up anything important first, because the process permanently deletes everything. Once you’re ready, here’s how to restore your iPad to factory settings.

Restore from your iPad settings

Step 1: Open Settings and head to General. Scroll down and tap Transfer or Reset iPad.

Step 2: Choose Erase All Content and Settings.

Step 3: Enter your passcode or Apple ID password if asked.

Step 4: Tap confirm, and the iPad will erase everything and restart.

Restore using a PC or laptop

Step 1: Connect your iPad to a Mac (using Finder) or a Windows PC (using iTunes).

Step 2: Put your iPad into Recovery Mode. If your iPad has a Home button, hold the Home and Top buttons together until the Recovery screen appears. If it doesn’t have a Home button, quickly press Volume Up, then Volume Down, and finally hold the Power button until you see the Recovery screen.

Step 3: On your computer, select Restore and follow the on-screen instructions.

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Once the process finishes, your iPad will restart and show the setup screen, just like it did when it was brand new.