How to block senders in Gmail

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting for blocking senders in Gmail.

7-10 min read
Expert Verified
Last Updated: August 2025

Quick Answer

To block senders in Gmail, you can use the built-in blocking feature directly from an email or through settings. This prevents unwanted emails from reaching your inbox and helps maintain a clutter-free email experience.

Easy⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before blocking senders in Gmail, ensure you have the following:
  • •An active Gmail account.
  • •Access to the internet via a web browser or mobile app.
  • •Basic familiarity with Gmail's interface.

Method 1: Blocking from an Email

This method is straightforward and ideal for quickly blocking a sender from an email you have received.
  • •Step 1: Open Gmail and locate the email from the sender you wish to block.
  • •Step 2: Click on the three vertical dots (More) in the top right corner of the email.
  • •Step 3: Select 'Block [Sender]' from the dropdown menu.
  • •Step 4: A confirmation message will appear at the top of the page stating 'You have blocked [Sender].' To verify, check the sender's email in the blocked list under Settings > Filters and Blocked Addresses.
  • •Step 5: If the sender is still able to send emails, ensure you have followed the steps correctly and try refreshing your inbox.

For Windows 11

Windows 11 users will find the interface similar to Windows 10, with slight visual updates.
  • •Ensure your browser is updated for optimal performance.
  • •Follow the same steps as outlined above.

For Windows 10

Windows 10 users can follow the same steps as Windows 11, with the interface being slightly different but functionally the same.
  • •Ensure your browser is updated.
  • •Follow the same steps as outlined above.

Method 2: Using Gmail Settings

This method is useful for blocking multiple senders or creating filters for unwanted emails.
  • •Step 1: Open Gmail and click on the gear icon (Settings) in the top right corner.
  • •Step 2: Select 'See all settings' from the dropdown.
  • •Step 3: Navigate to the 'Filters and Blocked Addresses' tab.
  • •Step 4: Click on 'Create a new filter.'
  • •Step 5: In the 'From' field, enter the email address you want to block and click 'Create filter.'
  • •Step 6: Check 'Delete it' or 'Skip Inbox (Archive it)' to prevent emails from appearing in your inbox.
  • •Step 7: Click 'Create filter' to finalize your settings.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter problems while blocking senders, consider the following solutions:
  • •Error: 'Blocked sender still sending emails' - Solution: Ensure you have correctly blocked the sender and check your blocked list.
  • •Issue: 'Unable to find the Block option' - Fix: Make sure you are clicking on the email itself and not just the preview.
  • •Problem: 'Emails still appear in inbox' - Workaround: Create a filter that automatically deletes or archives emails from that sender.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

Enhance your Gmail experience with these tips:
  • •Keyboard shortcut: 'Shift + ?' - Opens the keyboard shortcuts help menu.
  • •Command line: Use Gmail's search bar with 'from:[email@example.com]' to quickly locate emails from a specific sender.
  • •Hidden feature: Use the 'Mute' option for ongoing email threads that are no longer relevant.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

For optimal email management, regularly review your blocked senders and filters to ensure they meet your current needs.