• September 26, 2025

How to Block Websites on iPhone: Complete 2024 Guide (7 Proven Methods)

Ever caught yourself mindlessly scrolling through social media when you should be working? Or maybe you're worried about the kids stumbling upon sketchy websites? Blocking sites on your iPhone isn't just possible – it's easier than you think. I've tested every method out there (including some frustrating fails) and I'm sharing what actually works.

Why Block Websites on iPhone?

Let's be honest, we've all wasted hours on distracting sites. Last month I blocked TikTok after realizing I'd spent 3 hours watching cooking videos instead of writing this guide. Beyond productivity, blocking websites helps with:

  • Focus protection (social media, news sites)
  • Parental controls (adult content, violence)
  • Security (phishing scams, malware sites)
  • Mental health (triggering content)

The Built-in Solution: Screen Time

Apple's Screen Time is your free, built-in option. No downloads needed. Here's how to block sites on iPhone using this method:

Step-by-Step Setup

  1. Open Settings > Screen Time
  2. Tap Content & Privacy Restrictions > Enable toggle
  3. Select Content Restrictions > Web Content
  4. Choose Limit Adult Websites
  5. Under NEVER ALLOW, tap Add Website
  6. Enter URL (e.g. facebook.com or instagram.com)

Heads up: This only blocks sites in Safari. Apps like Instagram or Facebook won't be affected. Learned this the hard way when my kid switched to the app version!

Screen Time Limitations

It's good but not perfect. Missing features:

  • Blocks entire categories (like gambling sites)
  • Schedule-based blocking (block during work hours)
  • Cross-app blocking (works only in Safari)

Safari-Only Blocking

Need something quicker? Just want to block sites in Safari? Try this:

Method Steps Best For
Reader Mode Tap AA icon > Show Reader View (hides ads) Minimal distractions
Content Blockers Safari Extensions > Install blocker > Enable Ad-heavy sites
Manual Restrictions Settings > Screen Time > Content Restrictions > Web Content Quick temporary blocks

I use reader mode for news sites but it's not real blocking. When I tried blocking Reddit this way, I just kept switching browsers. Weak.

Third-Party Apps That Actually Work

When Screen Time isn't enough, these apps bridge the gap. I tested 12 blockers for a month. Here are the top 3:

App Cost Blocks Apps? Key Features My Experience
Freedom $7/month Yes Schedule blocking, sync across devices Worked great until iOS update broke sync
BlockSite Free (premium $3/month) No Keyword blocking, redirects Free version has annoying ads
FocusMe $5/month Yes Deep focus modes, usage reports Steep learning curve but powerful

Warning: Free apps often sell your browsing data. Always check privacy policies!

Advanced DNS Blocking

Tech-savvy solution: Change your DNS to filter content network-wide. No apps needed.

Setup Guide

  1. Go to Settings > Wi-Fi
  2. Tap the i icon next to your network
  3. Under DNS, tap Configure DNS
  4. Select Manual > Add Server
  5. Enter filtering DNS address:
    • AdGuard: 94.140.14.14
    • CleanBrowsing: 185.228.168.168

I use CleanBrowsing for my kid's phone. Blocks porn and phishing sites automatically. Downside? Sometimes blocks legit sites too.

VPNs With Built-in Blocking

Good VPNs aren't just for privacy. Many include site blocking features.

VPN Blocking Features Price iOS Rating
NordVPN Threat Protection (malware sites) $12/month 4.8★
Surfshark CleanWeb (ads/trackers) $13/month 4.7★
ExpressVPN Basic ad blocking $13/month 4.6★

Parental Control Solutions

Managing kids' iPhones? Requires different tools. Essential features:

  • Activity reports (what sites they visit)
  • Time limits (shuts off access at bedtime)
  • Location-based rules (block social media at school)

Pro Tip: Use Apple's Family Sharing with Screen Time. Lets you approve requests remotely when kids need access.

Why Your Block Might Fail (And Fixes)

Blocked a site but it still loads? Common issues:

Problem Why It Happens Solution
Site loads anyway Browser cache not cleared Clear Safari history/cache
HTTPS issues Some blockers can't filter encrypted sites Install trusted root certificate
Apps bypass blocks Native apps don't use Safari Use app-blocking features
Wrong URL format Entered "www.site.com" instead of "site.com" Block both versions

I spent 2 hours troubleshooting before realizing I'd typed "redit.com" instead of "reddit.com". Facepalm moment.

Advanced Scenarios

Special cases need special solutions:

Blocking Specific Pages

Need to block one page (e.g. youtube.com/results?search_query=...)? Use a regex blocker like Freedom. Regular Screen Time won't cut it.

Scheduled Blocking

Want to block sites only during work hours? Screen Time doesn't do schedules. Third-party apps like FocusMe let you create custom schedules.

FAQs: Blocking Sites on iPhone

Can I block websites without installing apps?

Absolutely. Screen Time and DNS blocking require zero downloads.

Why can I still access blocked sites after setup?

Clear Safari cache. If using Screen Time, ensure restrictions are enabled.

Do blocked sites sync across my Apple devices?

Only if you enable Screen Time syncing via iCloud. Third-party apps vary.

Can I block sites in Chrome instead of Safari?

Yes, but you'll need third-party tools. iOS restrictions apply system-wide.

How to temporarily disable blocking?

Go to Settings > Screen Time > Content & Privacy Restrictions > Disable. Requires passcode.

Will blocking drain my battery?

DNS blockers? No. Apps running constant filters? Maybe 5-10% more drain.

Final Recommendations

After testing everything, here's what I suggest:

  • For parents: Apple Screen Time + CleanBrowsing DNS
  • For focus: FocusMe app with scheduled blocks
  • Quick fix: Safari content blockers
  • Techies: Custom DNS configuration

Remember, blocking sites on iPhone isn't about restriction - it's about taking control. Start small. Block one distracting site today. Your future self will thank you.

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