Before you list your iPhone, you need to wipe it properly 💪

Skip a step and you risk exposing your personal data or leaving Activation Lock on, which means the buyer cannot set up the phone and you will be dealing with a return. This guide walks you through both methods so you can hand it off clean and sell with confidence.

Before you begin, ensure you have a complete backup of your data via iCloud or your computer. You will also need your Apple Account (Apple ID) credentials to disable security features like Activation Lock.

Method 1: Resetting directly on your iPhone

This is the most straightforward method and can be done entirely from the device settings.

1. Open Settings: Go to the Settings app and tap General.

2. Transfer or Reset: Scroll to the bottom and select Transfer or Reset iPhone.

3. Erase Content: Tap Erase All Content and Settings, then tap Continue.

4. Manage eSIM: If prompted, choose whether to keep or delete your eSIM. (Note: You should usually delete it if selling the phone).

5. Security Codes: Enter your device passcode and, if applicable, your Screen Time passcode.

6. Remove Activation Lock: Enter your Apple Account password and tap Turn Off in the top right corner. This is a critical step to ensure the new owner can set up the device.

7. Finalize: Wait for the iPhone to finish erasing. The process is complete when the "Hello" screen appears.

Method 2: Resetting using a computer (Mac or PC)

Use this method if you prefer using a desktop interface or are troubleshooting an issue.

1. Disable Find My: On your iPhone, go to Settings > [Your Name] > Find My and toggle Find My iPhone to off. You must enter your Apple Account password to confirm.

2. Connect Device: Plug your iPhone into your computer using a USB cable.

3. Access Software:

   • Mac (macOS Catalina or later): Open Finder.

   • PC: Open the Apple Devices app or iTunes.

4. Trust the Connection: Select your device in the sidebar. If prompted, tap Trust on your iPhone and enter your passcode.

5. Restore iPhone: Click the Restore iPhone button in the software interface.

6. Confirm and Wait: Choose whether to perform one last backup, then click Restore to confirm. Your computer will download the latest iOS and wipe the device.

Before you reset: What sellers need to know

What does “Erase All Content and Settings” actually delete?

When you erase your iPhone, it removes everything tied to your account: photos, messages, contacts, apps, saved passwords, payment methods, and any other personal data. What it does not remove is the iOS software itself. The buyer gets a clean device running the current version of iOS, ready to set up as new. Nothing you had on the phone is recoverable after the reset, which is why backing up first is non-negotiable.

What if you forgot your Apple ID password?

Do not reset the phone yet. If you wipe the device without signing out of your Apple ID first, Activation Lock stays on. The buyer will not be able to set up the phone, and you will get a return request or a dispute.

Go to iforgot.apple.com and reset your password before you do anything else. Once you are back into your account, sign out of iCloud (Settings > Your Name > Sign Out), then proceed with the reset. If you have completely lost access to your Apple ID and cannot recover it, contact Apple Support directly. This is worth the extra time before listing.

How to confirm the reset worked

When the reset is complete, the iPhone will restart and show the "Hello" setup screen in multiple languages. That is the confirmation. If you see your home screen or are prompted to enter a passcode, the reset did not finish correctly and you should repeat the process.

Before handing the phone off, power it on and check that the Hello screen appears. Do not just take the wipe completion message at face value.

Should you include the original box and accessories?

Yes, if you have them. Original boxes, charging cables, and documentation consistently result in higher sale prices on both eBay and Facebook Marketplace. Buyers searching for used iPhones often filter or compare based on whether the listing says "with box," and it signals that the item was well cared for.

When you are ready to list, use Hero Stuff (for iOS or Android) to generate your listing description and get a price estimate. It will factor in condition, model, and storage so you know whether your box and accessories are worth calling out in the title or just the description. You can also use the Hero Stuff Price Guides to help with your price research.

Happy selling 🤑✌️