How to save Instagram posts by DM
Short answer
With Restash, you can save an Instagram post or Reel by sending it as a direct message. Link your Instagram account in the Restash app once, then tap the paper-plane icon on any post and send it to the Restash Instagram account. Restash saves it to your vault, reads it, and files it like any other save.
You already send Reels to friends. Send the useful ones to your vault too.
Link Instagram once, then save by DM. Download Restash.
Download on the App StoreSet it up once
- Install Restash on your iPhone and sign in.
- Link your Instagram account from the Restash app.
- Follow the in-app prompt to find the Restash Instagram account.
Save by DM
- On a Reel or post, tap the send (paper-plane) icon.
- Choose the Restash account and send.
- The post appears in your vault, summarized and tagged, ready to search or ask.
DM or share sheet?
- DM is quickest when you are already in Instagram and used to sending Reels.
- Share sheet works from every app — TikTok, YouTube, Safari, Photos — and lets you pick a workspace as you save.
Both land in the same vault.
FAQ
Can I save Instagram Reels by sending them in a DM?
Yes. After you link your Instagram account in Restash, sending a Reel or post by DM to the Restash account saves it to your Restash vault.
Do I need to link my Instagram account?
Yes, for DM saving. Linking lets Restash know which vault a DM belongs to. The share sheet works without linking.
Is there a limit on DM saves?
Free accounts have a limited number of saves. Restash Pro unlocks unlimited saves.
About Restash
Restash is an iPhone app that saves posts from Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, X, Pinterest, Reddit, Facebook, Threads and the web — plus screenshots and notes — into one private vault. It reads each save, files it, and lets you ask questions about everything you saved in plain English. Workspaces turn saves into meal plans and grocery lists, workout routines, trip plans and product comparisons. Restash is free to start on the App Store; Restash Pro unlocks unlimited saves.
Privacy note
Your vault is yours. See the Privacy Policy for how Restash handles data — including that we do not sell your personal information or use your private vault to train public models.