Before you sell — prep & data safety
How to Factory Reset an Android Phone Before Selling
Updated 21 June 2026
Wiping an Android phone is straightforward, but there's one step people skip that locks the buyer out: removing your Google account. Do these in order and your phone will be clean and ready for its new owner.
⚠️ Do this last — after you have your quote and collection booked, so the phone stays usable until pickup.
Step 1: Back up your data
- Google backup: Settings > Google > Backup (or Settings > System > Backup). Backs up photos, contacts, and app data.
- Samsung: Settings > Accounts and backup > Back up data.
- Move photos to Google Photos if you haven't already.
Step 2: Remove your Google account (clears the lock)
This is the critical step. Factory Reset Protection ties the phone to your Google account — reset without removing it and the buyer is locked out.
- Settings > Accounts (or Accounts and backup > Manage accounts on Samsung).
- Tap your Google account > Remove account.
- Remove your Samsung / manufacturer account too if you have one.
Step 3: Factory reset
- Most Android: Settings > System > Reset options > Erase all data (factory reset).
- Samsung: Settings > General management > Reset > Factory data reset.
Confirm and let the phone wipe and restart to its setup screen.
Step 4: Remove your SIM and SD card
Pop out the SIM and any microSD card — a factory reset does not wipe a removable card.
Pre-collection checklist
- Backed up photos, contacts, and apps
- Removed Google account (and Samsung account)
- Factory reset — phone shows setup screen
- SIM removed
- SD card removed
Selling an iPhone instead?
The Apple process is different — see how to factory reset an iPhone. Once your phone is wiped, get your quote and book a free home collection.
Frequently asked questions
How do I factory reset an Android phone before selling?
Back up your data, remove your Google account (Settings > Accounts) to clear Factory Reset Protection, then go to Settings > System > Reset options > Erase all data (factory reset). Remove your SIM and SD card before handing the phone over.
Why do I have to remove my Google account before resetting?
Factory Reset Protection ties the phone to your Google account. If you reset without removing it, the next owner is asked for your Google login and cannot use the phone. Removing the account first clears the lock.
Does a factory reset erase everything on Android?
Yes, a factory reset erases all apps, accounts, photos, and settings from the phone storage. That is why you must back up first. Data on a removable SD card is not erased unless you wipe or remove the card.
Where is factory reset in Android settings?
It varies slightly by brand. On most phones it is Settings > System > Reset options > Erase all data. On Samsung it is Settings > General management > Reset > Factory data reset.