Amazon: the practical boycott guide
Amazon’s power is convenience + default spending. This guide is designed to create *friction* so Amazon stops being your reflex.
Fastest win
Disable 1-Click + cancel one subscription. That alone changes behaviour.
1) Starve attention (stop browsing deals)
Win condition
You only open Amazon with a list — never to “have a look”.
Do this (10 minutes)
- Unsubscribe from Amazon marketing emails and deal alerts.
- Delete the Amazon app (use browser-only when necessary).
- Remove bookmarks / homepage shortcuts to Amazon.
2) Stop training (recommendations + impulse)
Win condition
Less “you might like” pressure because you’re not feeding browsing signals.
Behaviour rules (simple, brutal)
- No browsing. Only search for items already on your list.
- 24-hour rule for anything non-essential.
- If you’re on the fence, buy it elsewhere or don’t buy it at all.
3) Cut data + remove “instant purchase”
Win condition
Purchases require intention. No more accidental/impulse one-tap buys.
Disable 1-Click (everywhere)
- Go to 1-Click settings and choose Disable 1-Click everywhere (wording may vary by account/region). :contentReference[oaicite:17]{index=17}
Alexa voice history (if you use Alexa)
- Alexa app → More → Alexa Privacy → Review Voice History → delete some/all. :contentReference[oaicite:18]{index=18}
Extra friction
- Remove saved cards if you want a forced pause at checkout.
4) Break lock-in (Prime + subscriptions)
Win condition
You’re not paying Amazon monthly for “convenience”. Amazon isn’t your default retailer.
Cancel Prime (UK)
- Go to Your Amazon Prime Membership → Manage → Update, Cancel and More → follow steps. :contentReference[oaicite:19]{index=19}
Cancel other subscriptions
- Go to Your Memberships and Subscriptions and cancel anything you don’t use. :contentReference[oaicite:20]{index=20}
Replacement rule: pick 2–3 alternative retailers *now* so you don’t “bounce back” in a weak moment.
5) Walk away (close the account)
Win condition
Amazon stops profiting from your default spending.
Exit steps
- Make sure Prime/subscriptions are cancelled and orders/returns are settled.
- Remove saved payment methods if you haven’t already.
- Close the account when ready.
- Delete apps + saved passwords/bookmarks to reduce relapse.