YouTube is one of the most popular apps on the planet — but sometimes, it can be a huge distraction. Whether you’re a parent trying to limit your child’s screen time or someone looking to boost productivity, learning how to block YouTube on mobile can help you take back control.
In this complete step-by-step guide, we’ll show you the best ways to block YouTube on Android and iPhone, including app blockers, parental control settings, and router restrictions.
Top Reasons to Block YouTube on Mobile
- Reduce distractions during work or study hours
- Limit children’s screen time and exposure to inappropriate content
- Save mobile data and battery life
- Improve mental focus and reduce addictive scrolling
- Control device usage in classrooms or workplaces
According to Statista, YouTube users spend over 23 hours per month on the app — that’s nearly a full day!
How to Block YouTube on Android — Complete Guide
If you’re using an Android device, there are several ways to block YouTube, depending on your goal — whether you want to restrict it completely or limit its use.
1. Control YouTube Access with Digital Wellbeing
Android’s Digital Wellbeing feature allows you to limit app usage, including YouTube.
Here’s how to block or restrict YouTube:
- Open Settings on your phone.
- Select Digital Wellbeing and parental controls.
- Select YouTube from the list.
- Set a daily limit or pause the app completely.
2. Manage YouTube Restrictions Through Family Link
If you’re a parent, Google Family Link is one of the most effective ways to block or restrict YouTube on your child’s phone.
Steps:
- Link both accounts.
- Go to your child’s profile → App Activity.
- Select YouTube and toggle Block or set a time limit.
3. Use Third-Party Apps to Block YouTube Easily
There are several third-party app blockers that let you control app access — perfect if you want stronger restrictions.
Some popular options include:
- BlockSite (BlockSite App)
- Stay Focused
- Freedom App
- AppBlock
How to use (example: BlockSite):
- Install BlockSite from Google Play Store.
- Grant necessary permissions.
- Add YouTube to your block list.
- Set schedules or always-on blocking.
Pro tip: You can even block YouTube websites via Chrome using BlockSite’s browser extension.
4. Manually Disable YouTube App in a Few Steps
If you rarely use YouTube, the easiest way is to disable the app completely.
Steps:
- Go to Settings → Apps → YouTube.
- Tap Disable.
- Confirm to remove updates and disable the app.
This makes YouTube disappear from your phone — it won’t open or update unless you re-enable it.
Best Ways to Block YouTube on iPhone or iPad
Apple users can also block YouTube through the Screen Time feature or parental restrictions.
1. Use Screen Time App Limits
Steps:
- Open Settings → Screen Time.
- Tap App Limits → Add Limit.
- Select YouTube or Entertainment category.
- Set a time limit (e.g., 15 minutes per day).
- Tap Add to confirm.
When the limit is reached, YouTube will be locked until you enter your passcode.
2. Block YouTube Entirely Using Content Restrictions
- Open Settings, then select Screen Time > Content & Privacy Restrictions.
- Select the Content and Privacy Restrictions option.
- Turn off YouTube or disable Safari to block access to the website version.
3. Use Parental Control Apps
If you want advanced monitoring or blocking tools, use parental control apps like:
- Qustodio (Qustodio Parental Control)
- Net Nanny
- Norton Family
- Bark
These apps let you block YouTube, monitor activity, and set time limits from a parent dashboard.
Pros and Cons of Blocking YouTube on Mobile
| Pros | Cons |
| Reduces distractions and boosts productivity | Might limit access to educational videos |
| Protects children from harmful content | Some users may bypass restrictions |
| Encourages healthy digital habits | Requires setup and monitoring |
| Saves data and battery life | Can be inconvenient for shared devices |
How to Limit YouTube Without Fully Blocking It
If you don’t want to block it completely, you can limit YouTube usage instead.
- Turn on YouTube’s “Remind Me to Take a Break” feature.
- Use Digital Wellbeing timers for gentle reminders.
- Switch to YouTube Kids for safer content control.
This way, you still enjoy YouTube — just in moderation.
Right Way to Block YouTube — Fast and Easy
- Set a strong PIN or password so kids can’t remove limits.
- Disable Play Store access if you don’t want apps reinstalled.
- Use routers or firewalls for network-level blocking.
- Regularly check screen time reports for usage trends.
Top FAQs on Blocking YouTube on Your Phone
1. Can I block YouTube without any app?
Yes. You can use built-in tools like Digital Wellbeing (Android) or Screen Time (iPhone) to block or limit YouTube without installing any third-party apps.
2. How do I block YouTube on Chrome mobile browser?
Install a site blocker extension like BlockSite, or use parental controls in Family Link to block YouTube websites on Chrome.
3. Can I block YouTube for specific times only?
Yes. Apps like Stay Focused or AppBlock let you block YouTube during work or study hours and automatically unblock it later.
4. Does blocking YouTube also block YouTube Music?
Not always. You may need to block YouTube Music separately if it’s installed as a separate app.
5. How can I block YouTube on all devices in my home?
You can block YouTube directly from your Wi-Fi router or install parental control software on each device.
6. What if my child uses a different browser or app?
Use Family Link or Qustodio to monitor app installs and web activity. These tools block YouTube access across browsers too.
Conclusion – How to Block YouTube on Mobile in 2025?
Now you know how to block YouTube on mobile — whether you’re using Android or iPhone. From built-in settings like Digital Wellbeing and Screen Time to advanced parental control apps, there are multiple effective ways to regain control of your digital life.
Blocking YouTube doesn’t mean cutting it off forever — it’s about finding balance.
