Deleted messages not clearing from iCloud

I deleted large attachments in my messages and emptied them from recently deleted over 30 days ago. Cleared about 30gigs of attachments. iCloud didn't sync the changes. I found them also in the recently deleted on my ipad and emptied them there, too. What do I need to do to get iCloud to sync properly to what's on my phone? I figured I'd wait the 30 days just in case, but that has now passed. Trying to hold off on upgrading my storage since I technically don't need extra storage yet...

Could the messages be hiding on my watch somewhere, too? I doubt it will be easy to track the attachments down there...

Thanks!

Posted on Sep 15, 2026 10:11 PM

1 reply

WheelieNick

Level 9 (74,110 points)

Sep 17, 2026 3:42 AM in response to Saxomophone

To force iCloud to update and reflect your deleted message attachments, toggle the Messages sync switch off and back on in your iCloud settings to re-trigger a fresh sync.

How to Force an iCloud Messages Sync

Go to Settings on your iPhone.
Tap your Name (Apple ID) at the top, then tap iCloud.
Under "Apps Using iCloud," tap Show All or Messages (depending on your iOS version)
Turn the toggle for Sync this iPhone (or Messages in iCloud) OFF.
Choose Disable and Download if prompted, or just leave it off for a minute or two.
Turn the switch back ON. This action forces iCloud to re-index and match the actual state of messages on your device.