How to Manage Your iCloud Backups From Your iOS Device

iCloud launched last October to much confusion amongst consumers. Apple’s cloud-based storage service doesn’t work like your typical drag-and-drop cloud software (see DropBox), leaving some folks wondering how to use it.

But never fear, iDB is here to show you how to make the most of your iCloud account. Today we are going to show you how to manage and/or delete your iCloud backup files from your iOS device in just a few easy steps…
Hidden deep within the Settings application are toggles that help you customize, and delete, your iOS backups. Managing these backups can help you save precious iCloud storage space and prevent you from having duplicate backups.

So whether you’re trying to free up some space in your iCloud account, or just want more control over iCloud, this little guide can help you out:

Step 1. Open the Settings application on any one of your iOS devices that is synced with your iCloud account.

Step 2. Tap the iCloud tab and select the Storage & Backup option. You’ll see your Total Storage and Available Storage. And you’ll also see a Manage Storage button. Tap that one.
Step 3. Select the iOS device that you want to customize first, and it’ll take you to a breakdown of your backup details including the last date that iCloud backed up your device, and how much space the backup is taking up.
Step 4. From here, you can select which files you want iCloud to store. For example, if you use PhotoStream to sync your photos to iCloud already, you don’t need to have them backed up a second time here. Turn it off.

If you don’t want iCloud backing up your data at all, you can choose to delete the backup which also turns off the auto-backup option. Just remember to plug your device into your computer and backup to iTunes or you could find yourself in a bind in the future.