When a channel is no longer needed, it can be archived or deleted. Archived channels are closed to new activity, but the message history is retained and searchable. Deleted channels are permanently removed from a workspace, message history included.
Note: Unlike other Slack channels, the #general channel can't be archived or deleted.
Archive a channel
Members (but not guests) can archive and unarchive channels by default, but owners and admins can restrict this. If you can’t see these options, find a workspace owner or admin to ask for help.
Archive a channel
Desktop
iOS
Android
Open the channel you'd like to archive.
Click on the channel name in the conversation header.
Click on Settings, then Archive channel for everyone.
Click on Archive channel to confirm.
Note: If you have permission, you can select Disconnect & archive to disconnect a Slack Connect channel from other organisations and archive it.
From the channel, tap the channel name at the top.
Tap Additional options.
Tap Archive channel.
Tap Archive to confirm.
From the channel, tap the channel name at the top.
Tap Archive.
Tap Archive to confirm.
Unarchive a channel
If you change your mind, you can unarchive a channel. If the channel is private, the channel members will be retained, but if it's public, the former members will not be restored.
From your desktop, click on All channels at the top of your left sidebar. If you don’t see this option, click on More to find it.
Search for and select the channel, or click Filter and select Archived channels from the Channel type drop-down menu.
Select the channel that you’d like to unarchive from the list.
Click on the channel name in the conversation header.
Click on Settings, then click on Unarchive this channel.
Tip: Channel names can't be repeated. To reuse the name of an archived channel, you'll need to unarchive it and rename the channel.
Delete a channel
Only workspace owners and workspace admins can delete a channel (except for the #general channel). If you can't delete a channel, find a workspace owner or admin to ask for help. Deleting a channel is permanent, so make sure that you proceed with caution.
Note:Retention settings do not apply to messages in deleted channels. If you delete a channel, any messages sent in the channel will be permanently deleted as well.
Delete an active channel
From your desktop, open the channel you'd like to delete.
Click on the channel name in the conversation header.
Click on Settings, then Delete channel.
Select Delete this channel.
Tick the box next to Yes, permanently delete the channel, then click on Delete channel.
Delete an archived channel
Click on All channels at the top of your left sidebar. If you don't see this option, click More to find it.
Search for and select a channel, or click Filter and select Archived channels from the Channel type drop-down menu.
Select the channel that you’d like to delete from the list.
Click on the channel name in the conversation header.
Click on Settings, then Delete this channel.
Tick the box next to Yes, permanently delete the channel, then click on Delete channel.
Who can use this feature?
By default, all members (except guests) can archive a channel. Only workspace owners/admins can delete a channel.
