Here are the safe, step-by-step ways to delete a database using phpMyAdmin. No coding needed.
Method 1: Delete a Database from the phpMyAdmin Home Page (Recommended)
- Log in to phpMyAdmin
- Usually at
http://localhost/phpmyadminor via your hosting control panel.
- Usually at
- Go to the “Databases” tab (top menu).
- You’ll see a list of databases.
- Check the box next to the database you want to delete.
- Scroll down and click “Drop”.
- A confirmation popup appears.
- Click OK / Yes.
The database is permanently deleted.
Method 2: Delete from Inside the Database
- In the left sidebar, click the database name.
- Click the “Operations” tab.
- Scroll to Remove database.
- Click “Drop the database (DROP)”.
- Confirm.
Method 3: Delete Using SQL Command
Use only if you know the exact database name.
- Select any database or click SQL tab.
- Run this command:
DROP DATABASE database_name;
Example:
DROP DATABASE my_test_db;
- Click Go.
Important Warnings
- Deletion is permanent — cannot be undone.
- Backup first if needed:
- Select database → Export → Quick → Go
Common Issues
Database not visible?
- You may not have permission.
- Log in as a user with full privileges (e.g.,
root).
Drop option disabled?
- Your hosting provider may restrict database deletion.

[…] a clear, step-by-step guide to creating a database and tables using XAMPP and phpMyAdmin, perfect for […]