Maybe you’re sick of the price hikes. Maybe you’re not keen on the whole password-sharing crackdown thing. Or maybe there’s just nothing you want to watch anymore. Whatever the reason, you might be wondering: Is it time for a Netflix break?
The idea of putting Netflix on pause is more complicated than it is for other streaming services. After all, many of us only sign up for certain streamers (like, say, Paramount+ and Peacock) when there’s something specific we want to watch. Oh, no more Tulsa King or Poker Face? Cancel!
Netflix, on the other hand, has become a utility for many of us–you know, something you just pay for automatically, like your electricity bill.
What makes Netflix any different? Good question. One could argue that if you’re going to have one go-to streaming service, Netflix should be it, but I keep flicking through all the rows and rows of shows and movies, and they’re always the same ones that I either a) have already seen or b) have no interest in watching.
Of course, I’m sure there’s something really good on Netflix that I could watch, but for now, I have a serious case of Netflix fatigue.
So, repeat after me: You can take a break from Netflix. It’s OK. And just because you leave doesn’t mean you can’t go back. (As someone who’s subscribed to Netflix continuously for more than 20 years, I’m mainly talking to myself here.)
How to take a break from your Netflix subscription
Netflix doesn’t offer an option for putting your membership on pause. Instead, you’ll need to cancel your subscription outright.
But here’s the thing: Netflix will keep your membership details, including your profiles, watch list, video ratings, and recommendations, for up to 10 months after you cancel.
Provided you restart your subscription before those 10 months are up, you’re effectively putting your membership on hold.
- Time to complete: 5 minutes
- Tools required: None
- Materials required: An active Netflix subscription
- Cost: $0
Go to your Netflix account settings
Ben Patterson/Foundry
Open Netflix on the web, click your profile icon in the top-right corner of the screen, then click Account.
Click the Cancel Membership button
Ben Patterson/Foundry
In the top-left corner of the Account screen, just below where it says how long you’ve been a member (guilt!), you’ll find the Cancel Membership button.
Take a deep breath and click it.
Finish the cancellation process
Ben Patterson/Foundry
You’ve now reached the final step–well, final for now, anyway. Click the Finish Cancellation button, and you’re done.
Provided you come back before your 10 months are up, your profiles will be waiting for you once you return.
Author: Ben Patterson, Senior Writer
Ben has been writing about technology and consumer electronics for more than 20 years. A PCWorld contributor since 2014, Ben joined TechHive in 2019, where he covers smart speakers, soundbars, and other smart and home-theater devices. You can follow Ben on Twitter.