Sometimes you need an automation to stop for a while: a product sells out, a sale ends, or you are changing the link. Pausing is better than deleting, because you keep the setup and can switch it back on in one tap.
How to pause in DM Flow
- Open Automations.
- Find the automation.
- Switch it from Live to Paused.
Switch it back to Live whenever you are ready. Your keywords, messages and stats stay as they were.
When to pause
- Out of stock: stop sending people to a page where they cannot buy.
- Offer ended: do not send an expired coupon.
- Updating the link or message: pause, edit, test, go live.
- Something looks wrong: people complaining about the DM, or a link broke.
When to edit instead
If you only need a new link or a better message, edit the automation while it is live. Changes apply to the next comment.
What happens to comments while paused
Comments made while an automation is paused are not answered, and they are not queued for later. If you want those people to get the link, reply to them yourself within seven days of their comment.
Better than pausing: a "sold out" message
Instead of pausing, change the message to something helpful:
Sorry, this one is sold out 😔 Comment NOTIFY on our latest reel and we'll DM you when it's back. Meanwhile, see our new arrivals 👇
Related reading
Frequently asked questions
Does pausing count against my live automation limit?
No. Only live automations count towards the plan's live automation limit.
Can I schedule an automation to pause at a set time?
Pause it yourself when the offer ends, or change the message to an "offer ended" version.
Will paused automations still show stats?
Yes. Past results stay visible.