How to Block Ads on Pinterest: A Simple Guide

Pinterest is a fantastic platform for discovering ideas, inspirations, and trends. However, like many free services, it relies on ads to support its operations. If you find ads on Pinterest distracting or intrusive, you might want to block them. This guide will show you various methods to block ads on Pinterest effectively.

Using Browser Extensions to Block Pinterest Ads

One of the easiest ways to block ads on Pinterest is by using browser extensions. These tools work with popular browsers like Chrome, Firefox, and Safari to prevent ads from loading.

AdBlock

AdBlock is a widely used extension that blocks ads on various websites, including Pinterest.

How to Install AdBlock:

1. For Chrome:
   • Go to the AdBlock Chrome Web Store page.
   • Click on “Add to Chrome”.
   • Confirm by clicking “Add extension”.
2. For Firefox:
   • Visit the AdBlock Firefox Add-ons page.
   • Click “Add to Firefox”.
   • Follow the prompts to install.
3. For Safari:
   • Open Safari and go to the AdBlock Safari page.
   • Click “Get” and follow the installation instructions.

Using AdBlock on Pinterest:

Once installed, AdBlock will automatically block ads when you visit Pinterest. You can adjust settings by clicking the AdBlock icon in your browser toolbar.

uBlock Origin

uBlock Origin is a free and open-source ad blocker known for its efficiency and low resource usage.

How to Install uBlock Origin:

1. For Chrome:
   • Go to the uBlock Origin Chrome Web Store page.
   • Click “Add to Chrome”.
   • Confirm by clicking “Add extension”.
2. For Firefox:
   • Visit the uBlock Origin Firefox Add-ons page.
   • Click “Add to Firefox”.
   • Follow the prompts to install.
3. For Safari:
   • uBlock Origin is not officially available for Safari, but you can use alternatives like AdGuard for Safari.

Using uBlock Origin on Pinterest:

After installation, uBlock Origin will block ads automatically. Click the uBlock Origin icon in your toolbar to adjust filters and settings as needed.

AdGuard

AdGuard is a powerful ad blocker that offers browser extensions and standalone applications for comprehensive ad blocking.

How to Install AdGuard:

1. For Chrome:
   • Visit the AdGuard Chrome Web Store page.
   • Click “Add to Chrome”.
   • Confirm by clicking “Add extension”.
2. For Firefox:
   • Go to the AdGuard Firefox Add-ons page.
   • Click “Add to Firefox”.
   • Follow the installation steps.
3. For Safari:
   • Visit the AdGuard for Safari page.
   • Click “Get” and install the extension.

Using AdGuard on Pinterest:

Once installed, AdGuard will block ads on Pinterest. You can customize settings by clicking the AdGuard icon in your browser.

Adjusting Pinterest Settings

While Pinterest doesn’t offer extensive ad-blocking options, you can adjust some settings to reduce the number of targeted ads you see.

1. Log into Your Pinterest Account:
   • Open Pinterest and sign in.
2. Access Settings:
   • Click on your profile picture in the top-right corner.
   • Select “Settings” from the dropdown menu.
3. Privacy and Data Settings:
   • Navigate to “Privacy and data” in the left sidebar.
4. Adjust Ad Preferences:
   • Here you can manage personalized ads by toggling options like “Personalized ads based on your activity on Pinterest and other websites”.
   • Turning off these options may reduce the relevance of ads but won’t block them entirely.

Using DNS-Based Ad Blockers

DNS-based ad blockers filter out ads at the network level, which can block ads across all devices connected to your network.

Setting Up a DNS-Based Ad Blocker

1. Choose a DNS Service:
   • Services like AdGuard DNS, Quad9, or OpenDNS offer ad-blocking features.
2. Change Your DNS Settings:
   • For Windows:
     • Go to Control Panel > Network and Internet > Network and Sharing Center.
     • Click on “Change adapter settings”.
     • Right-click your active network connection and select “Properties”.
     • Select “Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4)” and click “Properties”.
     • Choose “Use the following DNS server addresses” and enter the DNS addresses provided by your chosen service.
   • For Mac:
     • Go to System Preferences > Network.
     • Select your active connection and click “Advanced”.
     • Navigate to the “DNS” tab and add the DNS servers.
   • For Routers:
     • Access your router’s settings (usually via a web browser).
     • Find the DNS settings and enter the DNS server addresses.
     • Save and restart your router.

Note: Changing DNS settings affects all devices on your network. Ensure you choose a trusted DNS provider.

Blocking Ads on Mobile Devices

Blocking ads on Pinterest can also be done on mobile devices using specific apps or browser settings.

For iOS Devices

1. Using Ad-Blocking Browsers:
   • 1Blocker:
     • Download 1Blocker from the App Store.
     • Follow the setup instructions to enable ad blocking in Safari.
   • AdGuard for iOS:
     • Install AdGuard from the App Store.
     • Enable it in Settings > Safari > Content Blockers.
2. Using Content Blockers:
   • Go to Settings on your iPhone or iPad.
   • Scroll down to Safari and tap on Content Blockers.
   • Enable your chosen ad-blocking app.

For Android Devices

1. Using Ad-Blocking Browsers:
   • Brave Browser:
     • Download Brave from the Google Play Store.
     • Brave automatically blocks ads and trackers.
   • Firefox with uBlock Origin:
     • Install Firefox from the Google Play Store.
     • Add the uBlock Origin extension from the Firefox Add-ons page.
2. Using AdGuard App:
   • Download AdGuard from the official website.
   • Follow the setup instructions to enable ad blocking across apps and browsers.

Note: Some ad-blocking apps may require additional permissions or configurations.

Modifying Host Files (Advanced Users)

Warning: This method is for advanced users. Incorrectly modifying host files can affect your network settings and internet connectivity.

1. Access Host Files:
   • For Windows:
     • Open Notepad as an administrator.
     • Open the file at C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc\hosts.
   • For Mac/Linux:
     • Open the Terminal.
     • Use a text editor like nano to edit /etc/hosts.
2. Add Ad-Blocking Entries:
   • Add lines that redirect ad server domains to 127.0.0.1. For example:

     127.0.0.1 ad.doubleclick.net
     127.0.0.1 ads.google.com
     

   • Save the file after adding necessary entries.
3. Restart Your Device:
   • Reboot your computer or device to apply the changes.

Resources:

• You can find pre-made host files for ad blocking from sources like StevenBlack/hosts.

Using Pinterest’s Premium Features

Pinterest occasionally offers premium features that may reduce or remove ads. While not specifically designed for ad blocking, these features can enhance your experience.

1. Pinterest Plus:
   • Pinterest may introduce premium plans similar to other platforms.
   • Check your Pinterest settings or the official website for available premium options.
2. Subscriptions and Partnerships:
   • Occasionally, Pinterest partners with brands or offers subscription-based ad removal. Stay updated through Pinterest announcements.

Note: Premium features may require a subscription fee.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Is it legal to block ads on Pinterest?

Yes, blocking ads on Pinterest is legal. However, ads support the platform and its creators, so consider allowing ads to help sustain the service.

2. Will blocking ads on Pinterest affect site functionality?

Sometimes, blocking ads can interfere with how Pinterest displays content or features. If you experience issues, try disabling the ad blocker for Pinterest.

3. Can I block Pinterest ads on all my devices?

Yes, by using DNS-based ad blockers or configuring settings on each device, you can block ads across all your devices.

4. Does blocking ads improve Pinterest performance?

Yes, blocking ads can speed up page loading times and provide a cleaner browsing experience on Pinterest.

5. Are there free methods to block Pinterest ads?

Yes, using browser extensions like AdBlock or uBlock Origin and DNS-based ad blockers are free methods to block ads on Pinterest.

6. Do ad blockers protect my privacy on Pinterest?

Partially, ad blockers can prevent tracking scripts from loading, but for complete privacy, consider additional privacy tools like VPNs or privacy-focused browsers.

7. Will Pinterest detect if I’m using an ad blocker?

Sometimes, platforms can detect ad blockers and may prompt you to disable them to continue using the service.

8. Is using ad blockers safe?

Yes, reputable ad blockers are safe to use. However, download them from official sources to avoid malicious software.

9. Can I customize what ads to block on Pinterest?

Yes, some ad blockers allow you to customize filters and decide which types of ads or trackers to block.

10. Do ad blockers consume a lot of system resources?

Generally no, especially lightweight extensions like uBlock Origin. However, more comprehensive blockers may use slightly more resources.

Conclusion

Blocking ads on Pinterest can lead to a smoother and more enjoyable browsing experience. Whether you prefer using browser extensions like AdBlock, uBlock Origin, or AdGuard, adjusting Pinterest’s settings, or implementing DNS-based solutions, there are multiple ways to reduce or eliminate ads on the platform.

Remember, while ad blockers enhance your experience by removing unwanted ads, they also impact the revenue that supports free services like Pinterest. Consider supporting your favorite platforms in other ways if you choose to block ads.

Choose the method that best fits your technical comfort level and needs. With these steps, you can enjoy Pinterest with fewer distractions and a cleaner interface.