How to Delete All Comments on WordPress?

Comments are an integral part of a WordPress site, fostering interaction and engagement. However, there are moments when you might need to delete all comments, whether it's to start fresh, remove spam, or streamline your site's content. This article outlines several methods to accomplish this task, ensuring that you can take the path that best fits your technical comfort level and specific needs.

There are three primary methods to delete all comments on a WordPress site:

Using the WordPress Admin Dashboard

This method uses the built-in WordPress functionality to delete comments without needing any additional plugins or technical knowledge.

Step 1: Log in to your WordPress Admin Dashboard. Navigate to the Comments section by clicking on "Comments" in the sidebar.

Step 2: Select All Comments by clicking the checkbox at the top of the list to select all displayed comments.

Step 3: Bulk Action Selection: From the "Bulk Actions" dropdown menu, select "Move to Trash."

Step 4: Apply the Action: Click "Apply" to move the selected comments to the trash.

Step 5: Empty the Trash: Go to the "Trash" tab and select all comments again, then choose "Delete Permanently" from the bulk actions dropdown and apply.

Using a Plugin

For those who prefer a more automated approach, using a plugin can be a straightforward solution.

Step 1: Install the Plugin:

• Go to your WordPress Dashboard.
• Navigate to "Plugins" > "Add New."
• Search for "Wp bulk delete."
• Click "Install Now" and then "Activate."

Step 2: Delete All Comments:

• Go to "WP bulk delete" > "Delete Comments."

• Click on the "Delete All Comments" button.

Using SQL Queries

This method involves directly interacting with the database using SQL queries, offering a powerful way to manage your WordPress data.

Step 1: Access phpMyAdmin:

• Log in to your hosting control panel (e.g., hPanel).
• Open phpMyAdmin.
• Select your WordPress database.

Step 2: Run the SQL Query:

• Navigate to the SQL tab.
• Enter the SQL query to delete all comments.
• Execute the query.

Syntax:

DELETE FROM wp_comments;
DELETE FROM wp_commentmeta;

Note: The table prefix wp_ might be different if you have changed it during your WordPress installation. Adjust the prefix accordingly.

Example:

To delete all comments, enter the following SQL query:

DELETE FROM wp_comments;
DELETE FROM wp_commentmeta;

Output: Admin Dashboard: The comments list in the WordPress admin will be empty.

Conclusion

By following these methods, you can efficiently delete all comments from your WordPress site, whether you prefer using the admin dashboard, a plugin, or direct database manipulation. Each method offers different levels of control and complexity, allowing you to choose the best approach for your needs.

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Article Tags :

• Web Technologies
• Wordpress