So, you deleted your Facebook Dating account—and now you want it back. Whether it was an accident, a change of heart, or just some curiosity about who's out there now, you're not alone. A lot of people try Facebook Dating, take a break, and later realize they want to give it another shot.
Here’s the good news: you can get your Facebook Dating account back, but the steps depend on how it was deleted and how long ago you deleted it.
In this complete, no-fluff guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about restoring a deleted Facebook Dating account. You’ll learn the step-by-step process, what to expect, and tips to get back into the dating scene fast.
Why You Might Have Deleted Your Facebook Dating Account
Before we jump into the how-to, let’s take a moment to explore the “why.” Understanding this can actually help you decide whether to restore your old profile or start fresh.
Common reasons users delete their Facebook Dating profile:
You found someone and no longer needed the app.
You took a break from online dating.
You were frustrated with matches or conversations.
You didn’t know deleting Dating wouldn’t delete Facebook.
You accidentally deleted it while tweaking settings.
Whatever your reason, just know it’s okay—and there’s a way back if you're ready to re-enter the world of swipes, likes, and flirty chats.
First Things First: Did You Delete Facebook or Just Facebook Dating?
This part is crucial. When people say they "deleted Facebook Dating," they often mean one of two things:
1. You deleted only your Facebook Dating profile
Your main Facebook account is still active.
You can access Facebook as usual.
Only the Dating section is gone.
Good news: This is the easiest to fix.
2. You deleted your entire Facebook account
Facebook Dating, Messenger, Groups—everything is gone.
Facebook allows a short window (usually 30 days) for recovery.
This one’s more serious, but you might still be able to recover your account if you act quickly.
Section 1: How to Restore a Deleted Facebook Dating Profile
Let’s say you just deleted the Dating section, but your main Facebook profile is still intact. Here’s how to get things back on track:
Step 1: Open the Facebook App
Facebook Dating only works on the mobile app, not on desktop. So grab your phone and launch the app.
Step 2: Tap on the Menu (☰)
You’ll find this in the bottom right (iPhone) or top right (Android).
Step 3: Tap “Dating”
If you still see the Dating tab, tap it. You’ll get a prompt to set up Dating again—this means your previous Dating profile is gone and you're creating a new one.
If the Dating tab is missing, don’t worry. Use the search bar and type “Dating.” It should appear.
Step 4: Recreate Your Dating Profile
Since you deleted your original profile, Facebook requires you to start fresh:
Upload new or existing photos
Write a short bio
Set your preferences (age, location, interests)
Answer optional prompts
Unfortunately, Facebook doesn’t store your deleted Dating data. That means your matches, messages, and profile answers are gone for good. But the silver lining? You now get a clean slate.
Section 2: What If You Deleted Your Entire Facebook Account?
Now this one’s a bit trickier—but still manageable if you’re within the grace period.
Facebook's Deletion Timeline
When you choose to delete your Facebook account (not just Dating), Facebook gives you 30 days to change your mind.
If you log in within that time and click Cancel Deletion, your account (and Dating profile) is restored.
Step-by-Step Recovery:
Step 1: Open the Facebook App or Visit Facebook.com
Use the same credentials (email/phone number and password) you used before.
Step 2: Log In
Facebook will detect that your account is in the deletion phase and ask if you want to cancel it.
Step 3: Click “Cancel Deletion”
Boom! You’re back in.
Your entire Facebook profile—including Marketplace, Messenger, and Facebook Dating—should be restored just like it was.
Note: Messages or updates during the time your account was deactivated may not be saved.
What if it’s been more than 30 days?
Sadly, Facebook permanently deletes your data after the grace period. In that case, you'll have to create a new Facebook account and set up Facebook Dating again from scratch.
Facebook Dating vs. Facebook Account: Know the Difference
A quick side note here because it confuses a lot of users:
ActionAffects Facebook Dating?Affects Facebook Account?Delete Facebook Dating onlyYesNoDelete full Facebook accountYes (everything deleted)YesTemporarily deactivate FacebookYes (Dating disappears)Yes (Facebook paused)
Understanding these differences helps avoid accidentally deleting something you didn’t mean to.
Tips to Make the Most of Facebook Dating (After Getting It Back)
So now that you’ve got your Facebook Dating account up and running again, let’s make sure you get the most out of it.
Use Fresh Photos
Try uploading some new, natural, and well-lit pics. First impressions count!
Rewrite Your Bio
Avoid generic lines like “Just ask.” Instead, write something engaging like:
“Weekend traveler, bookworm, and amateur chef. Let’s debate over pineapple on pizza.”
Adjust Your Match Preferences
Fine-tune your preferences so you get the best matches:
Distance radius
Age range
Interests
Use “Secret Crush” Feature
Want to keep things interesting? Use the Secret Crush option to like up to 9 Facebook or Instagram contacts anonymously. If they like you back, it’s a match.
5. Try Video Chat
Use Messenger’s built-in video call feature to get to know matches before meeting in person. It’s safer and can help build trust.
Make sure:
You’re 18+
Using the latest version of the Facebook app
Located in a country where Dating is available
Logged into an eligible account
You can also type "Dating" in the search bar inside the Facebook app.
Stay Safe While Dating Again
When getting back into online dating, it's important to stay safe and smart:
Do:
Meet in public places
Tell a friend where you’re going
Video chat before meeting in person
Report any suspicious profiles
Don’t:
Share sensitive personal info too soon
Send money to someone you just met online
Feel pressured into anything uncomfortable
Alternatives to Deletion: What to Do Next Time
Deleting your Facebook Dating account might feel like a solution, but if you're just overwhelmed or need a break, there are better ways to step back without losing everything.
Use the “Take a Break” Option
You can temporarily hide your profile without deleting it. Your matches and messages will remain intact when you return.
Update Your Preferences
Getting the wrong kind of matches? Try adjusting your interests, distance, and age filters to improve suggestions.
Silence Notifications
Tired of constant pings? Go to your Facebook settings and manage notifications without deleting your account.
Conclusion
Getting back your deleted Facebook Dating account is easier than most people think. Whether you simply deleted the Dating feature or deactivated your entire Facebook account, there's a way to get back into the game.
Just remember:
If you deleted only your Dating profile, you can set it up again right away.
If you deleted your entire Facebook account, act fast (within 30 days) to recover it.
Take your time setting up a profile that reflects the real you.
And once you're back in, don’t just swipe and forget—engage with intention. Because the real benefit of Facebook Dating isn’t just matching with someone—it’s finding someone worth matching with.
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