How to Lock YouTube Restricted Mode on Every Device
Turning on YouTube Restricted Mode is a good first step — but locking it down across all devices is even better. If you want to prevent explicit videos from slipping through, here’s how to enable and lock Restricted Mode on computers, phones, smart TVs, and routers.
💻 On Computers (Web Browser)
- Go to YouTube.com
- Click your profile icon → Settings
- Scroll to the bottom → Toggle Restricted Mode ON
- Click Lock Restricted Mode (requires Google account login)
📱 On Phones and Tablets (YouTube App)
- Open the app → Tap profile icon
- Go to Settings → General
- Toggle Restricted Mode ON
- Note: This must be enabled per device/user profile
📺 On Smart TVs and Streaming Devices
- Open the YouTube app on your TV
- Go to Settings
- Select Restricted Mode and turn it ON
- Some platforms (like Fire TV or Roku) may require app-level PIN controls
🌐 Force Restricted Mode via Router or DNS
The most reliable way to enforce Restricted Mode across all devices is at the network level:
- Use CleanBrowsing Family DNS: 185.228.168.168
- Or OpenDNS Family Shield: 208.67.222.123
- This will enforce SafeSearch and YouTube Restricted Mode automatically
Use Gryphon Guardian Router for automatic YouTube filtering
✅ Bonus: Use Parental Control Apps to Lock Settings
- Bark Premium — Monitors YouTube use and alerts on inappropriate searches
- Qustodio — Restricts app use and blocks access to unfiltered versions
Final Tip:
Don’t rely on one setting alone. For best results, combine YouTube Restricted Mode with DNS-level filters and parental control apps to ensure protection across all platforms.
As an Amazon Associate, we may earn from qualifying purchases.