There are times when blocking someone on WhatsApp feels too harsh. At the same time, nonstop messages and alerts can get annoying. This often happens with very active group chats or contacts who message frequently. In situations like these, muting the chat is the smartest option.
Muting helps you silence notifications from a person or group while keeping the conversation open. You stay connected, but without constant interruptions. Below is a clear and beginner-friendly guide on how muting works and how you can use it on Android and iPhone.
Also read: How to Secure WhatsApp Using Face ID or Fingerprint on iPhone and Android
What Muting a WhatsApp Chat Actually Does
When you mute a chat on WhatsApp, a few simple things happen:
- Message notifications are silenced
- No pop-up alerts appear on your screen
- The other person is not informed
- You can still read and reply to messages anytime
Muting is private and subtle. The other person has no way of knowing you’ve done it.
How to Mute a Contact on WhatsApp (Android)
If you’re using an Android phone, follow these steps:
- Open WhatsApp
- Find the chat you want to silence
- Press and hold the chat
- Tap the mute icon at the top
- Choose how long you want to mute it
You’ll see three options:
- 8 hours
- 1 week
- Always
Pick one and tap OK. That’s it.
How to Mute a Contact on WhatsApp (iPhone)
On iPhone, the process looks a little different:
- Open WhatsApp
- Open the chat you want to mute
- Tap the contact or group name at the top
- Select Mute
- Choose the time duration
The same options are available: 8 hours, 1 week, or Always.
Muting a WhatsApp Group
Muting a group works the same way as muting an individual chat. It’s especially helpful when:
- A group is very active
- Messages keep coming all day
- You only need to check it once in a while
This lets you stay in the group without getting disturbed.
How to Know If a Chat Is Muted
Muted chats usually show a small mute icon next to the conversation. Even though notifications are off, you can still open the chat and read messages normally.
How to Unmute a Chat on WhatsApp
If you decide you want notifications again, unmuting is easy.
On Android:
- Long press the muted chat
- Tap the unmute icon
On iPhone:
- Open the chat
- Tap the contact name
- Select Unmute
Notifications will start right away.
Mute vs Block: What’s the Difference?
Mute
- Silences notifications
- Keeps messages flowing
- Does not limit contact
Block
- Stops messages and calls
- Restricts profile visibility
- Ends communication completely
If you just want fewer alerts and no drama, muting is the better choice.
When Should You Use the Mute Feature?
Muting is useful when:
- Someone sends too many messages
- You need time to focus
- You want fewer distractions
- Blocking feels unnecessary
It’s a calm and respectful way to manage your chats.
Also read: How to Export a WhatsApp Chat With or Without Media
Final Words
Muting someone on WhatsApp is a simple and official way to control your notifications without cutting off contact. It helps you stay focused, avoid stress, and keep conversations open on your terms.
If your WhatsApp feels too noisy, using the mute option can make your experience much more peaceful.
I am a passionate Tech Writer with strong industry experience. I enjoy exploring the latest technological innovations and sharing clear, helpful insights with my audience.”