How does the 'unsubscribe from sender' option work and what should I do if it fails?
Summary
What email marketers say14Marketer opinions
Email marketer from EmailGeek shares that the 'unsubscribe from sender' option is usually based on the List-Unsubscribe header in the email. If it fails, it could indicate a broken unsubscribe process which needs to be checked with the Email Service Provider.
Email marketer from GlockApps advises that you should check your sender reputation. A poor reputation can cause email providers to ignore unsubscribe requests. Improve your reputation by sending high-quality content and following email best practices.
Email marketer from Campaign Monitor recommends that you should monitor feedback loops from ISPs. These loops can provide valuable insights into failed unsubscribe requests and help you identify and resolve issues quickly.
Marketer from Email Geeks shares Gmail has a page about one-click unsubscribe and Microsoft only supports List-Unsubscribe with mailto.
Email marketer from Reddit suggests that if the 'unsubscribe from sender' option isn't working, check your ESP configuration to ensure it's correctly processing unsubscribe requests. Some ESPs might require manual configuration to handle these requests properly.
Email marketer from Stack Overflow explains that the List-Unsubscribe header can be implemented in two ways: via a mailto: address or via an HTTP URL. The HTTP URL method is generally preferred. If users are still receiving emails, check the implementation and ensure it properly updates your mailing list.
Email marketer from Email On Acid shares that if you're facing issues with the unsubscribe option, thoroughly test the List-Unsubscribe functionality. Check if the unsubscribe requests are being received and processed correctly by your system or ESP.
Email marketer from SuperOffice says that when users face issues with one-click unsubscribe, provide alternative methods, like a clear and accessible unsubscribe link in the email footer, to ensure they can opt-out.
Email marketer from Litmus says that if the 'unsubscribe from sender' option fails, it’s crucial to ensure proper handling of unsubscribe requests. Verify that your system is designed to capture and process these requests correctly to avoid deliverability problems.
Email marketer from HubSpot recommends regularly auditing your email lists and remove inactive or unengaged subscribers. This helps maintain a healthy list and reduces the likelihood of users needing to use the 'unsubscribe from sender' option in the first place.
Marketer from Email Geeks shares that unsubscribe is based on the list-unsubscribe header and it could mean the list-unsub is broken if the addressee is still targeted.
Email marketer from Mailjet shares that a broken unsubscribe process can lead to a negative impact on your sender reputation. It is recommended to prioritize fixing it to avoid getting marked as spam by email providers.
Marketer from Email Geeks explains that mailbox providers and app developers prefer the list unsub headers (ideally RFC8058; one click unsub) for better user experience. Reputation might be impacted if that path does not work.
Marketer from Email Geeks advises to make sure your ESP is hooked in to that feedback loop for the inbox provider, as it's worth checking.
What the experts say4Expert opinions
Expert from Word to the Wise answers that RFC8058 formalizes the One-Click Unsubscribe header for list email. This makes it easier for mailbox providers and email clients to provide an unsubscribe button next to the From address in the email. It sets requirements for how to process unsubscribes triggered from these buttons.
Expert from Word to the Wise explains that list-unsubscribe is one of the single most important things a legitimate email sender can do to improve their deliverability. The header allows users to unsubscribe in one click which improves user experience. Senders should use the one-click method of list-unsubscribe.
Expert from Email Geeks clarifies that unsubscribe via List-Unsubscribe header and feedback loops aren't related, other than a little overlap in the UI sometimes. You don't need to setup a FBL to receive unsubscription requests. You just need to add a working List-Unsubscribe header of a flavor ISPs like and have an adequate reputation.
Expert from Spam Resource explains that user complaints are the biggest deliverability killer. Therefore, it is important to make it very easy for users to unsubscribe as a best practice.
What the documentation says4Technical articles
Documentation from IETF explains that RFC2369 describes the standard for the List-Unsubscribe header. Senders should adhere to this standard to ensure compatibility with various email clients and providers.
Documentation from RFC8058 explains that RFC8058 is designed to help improve the user experience when unsubscribing from mailing lists using a one-click unsubscribe option.
Documentation from Microsoft explains that senders must include an RFC2369-compliant List-Unsubscribe header containing a mailto: address, this ensures a functional and compliant unsubscribe process.
Documentation from Google Support explains that Gmail offers a one-click unsubscribe feature, allowing users to easily unsubscribe from unwanted emails directly from the Gmail interface. Senders must implement the List-Unsubscribe header for this to work.