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Auto-Delete Old Messages

Better Messages can automatically delete old messages to manage database size and comply with data retention policies.

How it works​

When configured, the plugin periodically removes messages that are older than a specified number of days. This runs automatically via WordPress cron jobs. Attachments can have a separate retention period. Messages belonging to deleted user accounts can also be automatically cleaned up, ensuring no orphaned data remains in the database.

Key capabilities​

  • Automatically delete messages older than a specified number of days
  • Separate retention period for file attachments
  • Clean up messages when a user account is deleted
  • Runs automatically via WordPress cron
  • Helps manage database size on active sites
  • Useful for data retention compliance

How to enable​

Navigate to WP Admin → Better Messages → Settings → Messaging.

  • Auto-Delete Messages — Delete messages older than N days (set to 0 to disable)
  • Delete on User Removal — Automatically delete messages when a user account is deleted

For attachment retention: WP Admin → Better Messages → Settings → Attachments.

  • Attachment Retention — Delete attachments older than N days (set to 0 to disable)
tip

Set a reasonable retention period based on your site's needs. Consider your users' expectations and any applicable data retention regulations.