Not every message requires an instant response, and not every contact needs constant notification alerts. If someone messages too often but you do not want to block them, WhatsApp offers a simple solution. You can mute their chat.
Muting a contact allows you to stop notification sounds and alerts without ending communication. It is a private feature, and the other person will never know you muted them.
Also read: How to Save a WhatsApp Conversation as a File With or Without Media
What Does Muting a Chat Do on WhatsApp
When you mute a chat:
- Notifications from that chat are silenced
- Message alerts stop appearing as pop ups
- The contact can still send messages
- You can still reply anytime
Muting only affects notifications. It does not restrict the other person in any way.
How to Mute a Contact on WhatsApp for Android
Follow these steps:
- Open WhatsApp
- Locate the chat you want to mute
- Press and hold the chat
- Tap the mute icon at the top
- Select the mute duration
You can choose:
- 8 hours
- 1 week
- Always
After choosing, confirm your selection.
Also read: How to Protect WhatsApp Using Face ID or Fingerprint Authentication
How to Mute a Contact on WhatsApp for iPhone
On iPhone, the steps are slightly different:
- Open WhatsApp
- Open the specific chat
- Tap the contact name at the top
- Tap Mute
- Choose how long you want to mute
The available options are the same as Android.
Muting a WhatsApp Group
If a group chat is too active, muting can help reduce distractions.
To mute a group:
- Open the group
- Tap the group name
- Select Mute
- Choose the duration
This keeps you in the group but removes constant alerts.
Also read: How to Hide Your WhatsApp Online Status From Specific Contacts
How to Turn Notifications Back On
If you decide to receive notifications again:
On Android:
- Long press the chat
- Tap the unmute icon
On iPhone:
- Open the chat
- Tap the contact name
- Select Unmute
Notifications will resume immediately.
Why Muting Is Better Than Blocking in Some Situations
Blocking completely stops communication. Muting simply reduces noise.
Choose muting if:
- You want fewer interruptions
- You are busy and need focus
- You want to avoid awkward situations
- You still plan to reply later
Muting is a subtle way to manage conversations without creating tension.
Also read: How to Lock WhatsApp Chats on iPhone for Better Privacy
Does Muting Affect Message Delivery
No. Messages are delivered normally. You just will not hear notification sounds unless you manually open WhatsApp.
Final Thoughts
Muting someone on WhatsApp is an easy way to control notifications while keeping communication open. It works for both personal chats and groups and can be changed anytime. If you want fewer distractions without blocking anyone, the mute feature is the perfect option.