> Quick answer: TikTok Stories disappear after 24 hours. Tap '+', select 'Story', record or upload your content, add effects, and tap 'Your Story' to go live. Done in under two minutes.
TikTok Stories let you post photos and videos that vanish in a day. They appear on your profile, in your inbox, and across the For You and Following feeds. Here's exactly how to post one.
What are TikTok Stories?
TikTok Stories are short-lived photos and videos built for casual, in-the-moment sharing.
24-hour disappearing videos/photos
Per TikTok's official support documentation, Stories disappear automatically after 24 hours. They don't live permanently on your profile. That makes them ideal for time-sensitive content you want visible now, not forever.
Visibility across profile, inbox, and feeds
Your Story appears in three places. Your profile, your inbox, and both the For You and Following feeds. Viewers can also send unlimited replies and emoji reactions directly to your Story.
Where to find Stories on TikTok
Look for the story ring around a creator's profile photo. Tap it to view. You'll also find Stories surfaced in the Following feed and inbox sections of the app.
How to Post a TikTok Story: Step-by-Step
Four steps. Under two minutes.
Step 1: Open the creation menu
Tap the '+' button at the bottom center of TikTok. This opens the camera and creation screen. You can also tap your own profile photo directly from the Following feed, inbox, or profile page.
Step 2: Record or upload content
Record a clip directly in the app or upload from your camera roll. TikTok Stories support both photos and videos. Keep it short and visual.
Step 3: Edit and add effects
Add text, filters, stickers, or sounds to your Story. Keep edits simple. Stories perform best when they feel raw and real, not overproduced.
Step 4: Choose the Story option and publish
Below the record button, tap 'Story'. Then tap 'Your Story' to publish. Your Story goes live immediately and disappears after 24 hours on its own.
Best Practices for TikTok Stories
Good Stories feel personal, not polished.
Use Stories for behind-the-scenes content
Show your process, workspace, or prep work. Behind-the-scenes content builds trust quickly. It doesn't need to be perfect to work.
Test new formats and ideas
Stories are low-stakes. Try a new hook or an untested angle. If it flops, it vanishes in 24 hours. If it connects, build it into a permanent post.
Share time-sensitive offers and announcements
Launches, flash sales, and limited drops perform well in Stories. The 24-hour window creates natural urgency. Pair a clear call-to-action with your visual.
Keep Stories casual and conversational
Stories aren't the place for a polished ad. Speak directly to your audience. Short text overlays. Real moments. Low production, high authenticity.
Manage Your Stories
You stay in control after you post.
Check who viewed your Story
Swipe up on your live Story to see total view count and a list of viewers. This tells you exactly who's engaging between your permanent posts.
Delete Stories before 24 hours
Changed your mind? Go to your Story, tap the three-dot menu, and select delete. You don't have to wait for it to expire on its own.
Control replies with DM settings
TikTok lets you adjust who can reply to your Stories through your direct message settings. Manage this before or after you post.
Create Better Stories with Coinis
Strong Stories start with strong visuals and sharp copy.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I post a photo as a TikTok Story?
Yes. TikTok Stories support both photos and videos. Tap '+', select 'Story', upload your photo from your camera roll, add any effects, and tap 'Your Story' to publish.
How long do TikTok Stories last?
TikTok Stories disappear automatically after 24 hours. You can also delete a Story early by tapping the three-dot menu on your live Story and selecting delete.
Who can see my TikTok Story?
Your Story is visible from your profile, your inbox, and the For You and Following feeds. You can control who can reply to your Stories through your direct message settings.
Can I see who viewed my TikTok Story?
Yes. Swipe up on your live Story to see the total view count and a list of everyone who has viewed it.