Instagram 'Couldn't Refresh Feed' Error Fix (2025)

Updated: 11/29/2025

You pull down to refresh your Instagram feed, the little circle spins, and then... nothing. Just a blank screen and the annoying message: 'Couldn't Refresh Feed'. While this often happens when Instagram servers are down, it is frequently a local issue on your phone involving corrupted cache data or incorrect time settings.

Method 1: Check Date & Time (The Hidden Cause)

This is the most overlooked fix. Instagram's security certificate (SSL) relies on your phone's clock matching the server's clock exactly. If you manually changed your date recently, the feed will fail.

Step 1: Settings

Go to Settings > General > Date & Time (iOS) or System > Date & Time (Android).

Step 2: Set Automatically

Ensure 'Set Automatically' is toggled ON. If it is already on, turn it off and back on to resync with the tower.

Method 2: Offload or Clear Cache

If bad data is stuck in the app, it blocks new posts from downloading.

For Android Users

Go to Settings > Apps > Instagram > Storage and tap Clear Cache. This deletes temporary files but keeps you logged in.

For iPhone Users

iOS doesn't allow cache clearing. You must go to Settings > General > iPhone Storage > Instagram and tap Offload App. Then tap Reinstall. This refreshes the core files without deleting your drafts.

Method 3: Check for IP Blocks

Sometimes Instagram temporarily blocks an IP address if it suspects bot activity (too many likes/comments).

• Test: Turn off WiFi and switch to Mobile Data (5G/LTE).
• Result: If the feed loads on data but not WiFi, your home IP is temporarily flagged. Restart your Router to get a new IP address.