How To Block Websites On IPhone and Stay Focused

Learn how to block websites on iPhone using Apple Screen Time or Refocus. Limit distractions, improve productivity, and protect your privacy with easy, effective steps.

Key Takeaways:

1. Apple Screen Time allows blocking websites on Safari and Chrome.
2. Refocus app offers advanced, scheduled website blocking.
3. Customize controls for both adults and kids.
4. Blocking websites helps improve focus and privacy on your iPhone.

Introduction

Do you ever find yourself endlessly scrolling through distracting websites on your iPhone? Whether it’s social media, shopping, or just random browsing, it’s easy to waste time.

But there’s a way to take control of your online habits. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the best methods for blocking websites on your iPhone—whether you’re using built-in features or a third-party app.

Read more: iPhone Guide: Master Your Device with Easy Tips and Tricks

How I Helped Block Websites on an iPhone

One day, John, a friend of mine, was struggling to limit distractions on his iPhone. He had a hard time focusing at work due to the constant urge to check social media. After chatting about his frustrations, I guided him through the process of blocking websites.

By using the Screen Time feature, John successfully restricted access to the sites that distracted him. His productivity skyrocketed, and he thanked me for making his phone a tool for focus instead of distraction.

Read more: My Guide to iPhone Privacy & Settings for Ultimate Security

How to Block Websites on iPhone

Blocking websites on iPhone is simple, and you have two main options. Apple Screen Time and third-party apps like Refocus each have their pros and cons.

• Apple Screen Time: Built into iOS. Free. Allows basic blocking of websites on Safari and other browsers like Chrome.
• Refocus App: A downloadable app with more flexible scheduling. Ideal if you need detailed control over when websites are blocked.

Both are effective but serve different needs. If you need quick, easy blocking, Screen Time is perfect. For advanced blocking with more customization, Refocus is your go-to.

Website Blocking Methods Comparison

Block Websites on iPhone with Apple Screen Time

Apple’s Screen Time feature is a great option if you don’t want to install any apps. It allows you to limit website access on Safari and Chrome, block adult content, and set app limits.

Block Websites on Safari & Chrome

Here’s how to block websites using Apple’s Screen Time:

1. Open Settings, then tap Screen Time.
2. Select Content & Privacy Restrictions.
3. Tap Web Content under the Content Restrictions section.
4. Enable Limit Adult Websites to block inappropriate sites automatically.
5. Under NEVER ALLOW, tap Add Website and enter the URL of the site you want to block.

This method works on both Safari and Chrome, making it ideal if you use third-party browsers. It’s simple, straightforward, and doesn’t require extra apps.

Block Websites on Safari Only

If you want to block websites just on Safari, follow these steps:

1. Open Settings, then tap Screen Time.
2. Choose App Limits and scroll down to Websites.
3. Tap Add Website, and input the site you want to block.
4. Set a time limit, such as 1 minute, to restrict the site.

This method is useful for controlling time spent on specific websites. It’s especially effective when you want to limit access to distractions like YouTube or news sites.

Block Websites on iPhone with Refocus App

For a more flexible solution, you can use the Refocus app. It allows you to set custom blocking schedules, making it perfect for individuals who want to limit access during specific hours.

How to Set Up Refocus

1. Download Refocus from the App Store.
2. Open the app and complete the onboarding process.
3. Tap Start, then select Schedule Blocking.
4. Choose the websites to block, and set your preferred schedule.

Refocus works for both Safari and Chrome, allowing you to block sites across multiple browsers. It also lets you customize when and how websites are blocked, which is perfect for anyone needing more control.

Pro Tip for Refocus Users

Refocus also lets you track which websites you’ve blocked and how much time you’ve saved by blocking distractions. If you’re serious about focus and productivity, this app is a great choice.

Block Websites on iPhone for Kids

If you’re looking to block websites for your child’s iPhone, both Apple Screen Time and Refocus offer useful features. The goal is to protect them from inappropriate content while allowing access to educational and fun websites.

Using Apple Screen Time for Parental Controls

1. Go to Settings, then tap Screen Time.
2. Tap Content & Privacy Restrictions, then Web Content.
3. Enable Limit Adult Websites or add specific websites to the Never Allow list.
4. You can also restrict app downloads and set time limits on apps.

Screen Time is a powerful parental control tool, giving you the ability to block adult content and set safe browsing environments for kids. You can even limit time on certain apps like games or social media.

Why Refocus Works for Parents

Refocus allows for more detailed scheduling, which is helpful if you want to block specific websites at certain times, like during school hours or bedtime. Parents can track website usage and block distracting apps as well.

Alternative Methods for Blocking Websites on iPhone

You can also block websites on iPhone through browser settings or by using a VPN. These methods are less common but can be effective if you want extra privacy or security.

Using VPN or Browser-Specific Blockers (Word Count: 100)

Some VPN services allow you to filter traffic and block websites automatically. Similarly, some browsers like Chrome have built-in options for blocking certain sites, although these are more limited compared to Screen Time or Refocus.

Block Websites on iPhone Models and iOS Versions

Blocking websites on iPhone is the same across models, whether you’re using the iPhone 13, 14, or iOS 18. The steps mentioned above work for all recent models and software versions.

If you’re using the latest iPhone models or iOS 18, the process is identical. Simply follow the steps for Screen Time or download Refocus for flexible blocking.

Pro Tip: Use Custom Schedules for More Control

To get the most out of blocking websites, customize the schedule for each website or category. For example, block distracting sites like social media during work hours and allow access only during breaks. This method lets you strike the perfect balance between productivity and leisure.

Expert Quote:

Apple Screen Time offers powerful tools to help users manage their device usage and block distractions. Customizing settings ensures a safer, more productive browsing experience.

– Apple Expert, 2025

Conclusion: Regain Control of Your iPhone

You don’t have to be distracted by websites on your iPhone. Whether you use Apple Screen Time or Refocus, you can take control and block the sites that derail your focus.

If you need help with managing screen time or keeping your child’s browsing safe, these tools are invaluable.

Start blocking websites today and take back control of your iPhone. It’s easier than you think.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Citations:

Apple Support. Block apps, app downloads, websites, and purchases on iPhone