How to Hide Comments on TikTok Live Streaming (2025 Guide)

TL;DR - Quick Answer
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How to Hide Comments on TikTok Live Streaming (2025 Guide)
Quick Answer: How to Hide Comments on TikTok Live
- Start your TikTok live stream
- Tap the comment bubble icon at the bottom
- Select "Turn off comments" or use comment filters
- Comments will be hidden from your stream
Note: You can also filter comments by keywords or enable restricted mode for better control.
Method 1: Completely Turn Off Comments
Step 1: Start Your Live Stream
Open TikTok, tap the "+" button at the bottom, then select "LIVE" to start broadcasting. Make sure you have at least 1,000+ followers to access live streaming.
Requirements: 1,000+ followers and be 16+ years old
Step 2: Access Comment Controls
During your live stream, look for the comment bubble icon at the bottom of your screen. Tap on it to open comment management options.
Location: Bottom center of live stream interface, next to other controls
Step 3: Turn Off Comments
In the comment settings menu, find and tap "Turn off comments" or "Disable comments." This will completely hide all comments from appearing on your live stream.
Result: No comments will be visible to you or your viewers during the live stream
Method 2: Filter Comments (Recommended)
Why Filtering is Better Than Hiding
Instead of completely turning off comments, filtering allows positive engagement while blocking inappropriate content. This keeps your audience engaged while maintaining stream quality.
Comment Filtering Options
- Keyword Filter: Block comments containing specific words or phrases
- Spam Filter: Automatically hide repetitive or suspicious comments
- Restricted Mode: Only allow comments from followers or verified users
How to Set Up Comment Filters
- Go to TikTok Settings → Privacy → Comments
- Enable "Filter all comments" or "Filter spam and offensive comments"
- Add custom keywords to your block list
- Set comment restrictions (followers only, mutual followers, etc.)
Advanced Comment Management
Moderator Controls
- Delete individual comments during live stream
- Block users who post inappropriate content
- Pin important comments to highlight key messages
- Timeout users temporarily from commenting
Pre-Stream Setup
- Set community guidelines in your bio
- Enable automatic filters before going live
- Inform moderators of your comment policy
- Create keyword lists for auto-blocking
How to Turn Comments Back On
If you've turned off comments and want to re-enable them during your live stream:
- Tap the comment bubble icon again
- Select "Turn on comments" or "Enable comments"
- Comments will immediately become visible again
- Consider applying filters instead of completely hiding
Best Practices for Live Comment Management
✅ Recommended Approach
- Use comment filters instead of completely hiding comments
- Engage with positive comments to encourage good behavior
- Set clear community guidelines before starting
- Have moderators help manage large live streams
- Address trolls quickly but don't give them too much attention
❌ What to Avoid
- Completely hiding comments unless absolutely necessary
- Over-filtering positive engagement
- Ignoring inappropriate comments entirely
- Being too strict with comment moderation
- Not preparing moderation strategy before going live
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Comment Controls Not Working?
- Update TikTok to the latest version
- Restart the app and try again
- Check if you have sufficient followers (1,000+)
- Ensure stable internet connection
Comments Still Appearing Despite Settings?
- Check if settings applied properly during live stream
- Some comments may appear with delay due to processing
- Refresh or restart your live stream
- Verify filter settings are saved correctly
Engagement Dropping After Hiding Comments?
- Consider using filters instead of complete hiding
- Encourage other forms of engagement (likes, shares)
- Communicate with your audience about comment policy
- Balance moderation with community interaction
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I hide comments without affecting engagement?
Yes, using comment filters instead of completely turning off comments is the best approach. Filters block inappropriate content while allowing positive engagement to continue, maintaining your stream's interactivity.
Do I need a certain number of followers to hide comments on TikTok Live?
You need at least 1,000 followers to access TikTok Live streaming features, including comment controls. Once you meet this requirement, all comment management features become available.
Will people know if I've hidden their comments?
No, TikTok doesn't notify users when their comments are filtered or hidden during live streams. Hidden comments simply don't appear to other viewers, but the user who posted them won't receive a notification.
Can I turn comments back on during a live stream?
Yes, you can toggle comments on and off at any time during your live stream by tapping the comment bubble icon and selecting "Turn on comments" or "Turn off comments."
What's the difference between filtering and hiding comments?
Filtering automatically blocks comments containing specific words or meeting certain criteria, while hiding comments completely turns off all comments. Filtering is selective, while hiding is absolute.
How do I set up keyword filters before going live?
Go to TikTok Settings → Privacy → Comments, then enable "Filter all comments" or add specific keywords to your block list. These filters will apply to your live streams automatically.
Can moderators help manage comments during live streams?
Yes, you can designate moderators who can delete individual comments, block users, and help manage your live stream chat. Set up your moderation team before going live for best results.
Why aren't my comment controls working during live streams?
Make sure your TikTok app is updated to the latest version, you have at least 1,000 followers, and a stable internet connection. If problems persist, restart the app and try again.
Key Takeaways
- Complete Hiding: Use only when necessary, can reduce engagement
- Smart Filtering: Better option that maintains positive engagement
- Pre-Planning: Set up filters and guidelines before going live
- Community Focus: Balance moderation with audience interaction
Managing comments effectively during TikTok live streams helps create a positive environment while maintaining audience engagement. Remember that filtering is usually better than completely hiding comments, as it allows good interactions while blocking problematic content.
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