How to safely empty your iPad
Your iPad is full. Packed with memories, work files, and apps you used long ago. Maybe you want to sell it or pass it on to someone else. Or just recapture that quick, energetic feeling of the past with a fresh start. But the thought of losing important data or your personal information falling into the wrong hands is holding you back. However, wiping your refurbished iPad doesn't have to be a headache. With the right preparation and a structured approach, you can securely erase your iPad and back up all your important data in under an hour. Whether you're upgrading to a new refurbished iPhone or just want a clean slate, we'll guide you step by step through the process so you can move forward worry-free.
Useful links
- View our refurbished iPads
- Or upgrade to a refurbished iPhone
- Sell your old iPad
Why You Might Want to Reset Your iPad
There are several reasons to reset your iPad to factory settings:
- You want to sell or give away your iPad
- Your iPad is slow and you want to improve its performance
- You want to make a clean start and clean up unused apps and files
- You want to erase your personal data for privacy
A factory reset erases all of your settings, apps, and files, leaving your iPad looking like it did when you first turned it on.
Step 1: Back up your data
Before you begin, it's essential to back up your important data. There are two ways:
- Via iCloud:
- Connect your iPad to Wi-Fi
- Go to Settings > Your Name > iCloud
- Tap on 'iCloud Backup' and turn it on
- Tap 'Back up now'
- Through your computer with iTunes:
- Connect your iPad to your computer with a USB cable
- Open iTunes and select your iPad
- Click on 'Back up now'
- Wait for the backup to complete
Afterward, check whether the backup was successful to ensure your data is safe.
Step 2: Sign out of iCloud, iTunes, and the App Store
Now that you have a backup, sign out of your accounts so that your personal data is no longer linked to the device:
- Go to Settings
- Tap your name at the top
- Scroll down and tap 'Log out'
- Enter your Apple ID password and confirm that you want to sign out
This will prevent the next user from accessing your Apple ID and purchased apps.
Step 3: Erase all content and settings
Now you can perform the actual reset:
- Go to Settings > General
- Tap 'Reset' at the bottom
- Select 'Erase all content and settings'
- Enter your access code if prompted
- Confirm that you want to delete everything
Wait for the erasing process to complete. This may take a while, so connect your iPad to the charger.
Step 4: Check if the reset was successful
After the reset, your iPad should have restarted to the home screen. Check the following:
- You will see the 'Hello' welcome screen in multiple languages
- There are no more personal data such as photos, messages, etc.
- You are signed out of iCloud and other services
If you sell or give away your iPad, you don't need to configure anything else. Just give it to the new owner.
Additional tips for a smooth reset
- Make sure your iPad is sufficiently charged or connected to a charger during the reset.
- If necessary, update your iPad to the latest iOS version first for best performance.
- Write down passwords you've saved in apps so you don't lose them.
- A refurbished iPad is an affordable and sustainable alternative if you want to upgrade.
Continue safely with a clean iPad
With this step-by-step guide, you can safely and thoroughly wipe your iPad. By first creating a good backup and systematically logging out of your accounts, all your important data will be saved while your personal information is protected. Whether you're choosing a fresh start or passing your iPad on to a new owner, the entire process is completed in under an hour. This way, you start with a clean slate, without worrying about any personal data left behind. And if you're ready for an upgrade, a refurbished iPad is a smart, sustainable choice for your next device.
