You want to post in a subreddit, but you’re not sure where the rules are. Maybe you searched, scrolled, and still can’t find them. Or you read the sidebar but got removed anyway for breaking a rule you didn’t see.
The problem isn’t you. Subreddit rules are hidden in different places depending on the subreddit, your device, and how you access Reddit. This guide shows you exactly where to find them, including the less obvious spots.
Before you start: what you need
– A subreddit you want to participate in
– Access to desktop Reddit (recommended) or the mobile app
– Patience for subreddits that hide rules in wikis or pinned posts
Step 1: Check the sidebar on desktop Reddit
This is the most common place. On new Reddit (the default design), the sidebar is on the right side of the subreddit page. Look for a section labeled “Rules” or “Subreddit Rules.” It’s usually near the top, sometimes with numbered rules.
If you don’t see a rules section, scroll down. Some subreddits put rules below the community description, moderators list, or even after an image widget.
Step 2: Use the “About” tab on mobile
On the official Reddit app, tap the subreddit name at the top. Then tap “About” (or the “See more” button). This shows the sidebar content, including rules. Scrolling down is often necessary.
A common mistake: users check only the posts feed and never tap “About.” The rules are there, just not visible by default.
Step 3: Switch to old Reddit for stubborn subreddits
Some subreddits never updated their new Reddit sidebar. Their rules exist only on old Reddit (old.reddit.com). Go to old.reddit.com/r/[subredditname]. The sidebar is on the right, usually with clear rule text.
This is especially common for older or less active subreddits. If you can’t find rules on new Reddit or mobile, old Reddit is your best bet.
Step 4: Check the subreddit wiki for expanded rules
Many subreddits have a wiki page with detailed rules, examples, and explanations. Look for a “Wiki” tab near the top of the subreddit page (on desktop). Alternatively, go directly to reddit.com/r/[subredditname]/wiki/index.
Some subreddits link to their wiki from the sidebar. Others hide it. If the sidebar says “Full rules in wiki” or “Click here for rules,” that’s your next stop.
Step 5: Use a subreddit quality check to verify enforcement
Finding the rules is one thing. Knowing which ones are enforced strictly is another. A subreddit quality check can tell you whether the subreddit actually removes posts for specific rule violations. Tools like Reddit’s own moderation log (if public) or third-party subreddit analyzers can reveal removal patterns.
This step saves you time. A subreddit might have ten rules but only enforce two. Knowing which ones matter helps you avoid removals.
Common blockers and how to fix them
- No sidebar visible on mobile: Use the “About” tab. If that’s empty, switch to desktop.
- Rules are in an image: Some subreddits post rules as images. Check pinned posts or the wiki for text versions.
- Subreddit is private or quarantined: You can’t see rules without access. If you’re considering joining, check the subreddit requirements first; some require specific karma or account age.
- Rules are in a pinned post: Sort by “Hot” and look at the top 1-3 posts. Many subreddits pin their rules.
Practical example: finding rules for a niche subreddit
You want to post in r/woodworking (a popular niche subreddit). On desktop new Reddit, the sidebar shows eight rules clearly. On mobile, you tap “About” and scroll past the description to see the same rules. You also notice a wiki link for detailed explanations about tool recommendations.
If you were in a smaller subreddit like r/woodworking_tools, you might need old Reddit. The new Reddit sidebar is empty, but old Reddit shows rules about posting affiliate links and self-promotion.
This is why checking multiple locations matters.
Practical takeaway
Don’t assume a subreddit has no rules just because you can’t find them immediately. Check the sidebar, the About tab, old Reddit, the wiki, and pinned posts. Use a subreddit quality check to understand enforcement patterns. If you’re researching multiple subreddits for marketing or participation, knowing where to find subreddit rules where to find them saves time and prevents frustration.
When you find the rules, screenshot them. Many subreddits change rules without notice, and having a record protects you if a mod removes your post retroactively.
For this use case, practical proxy option for Reddit workflows should be compared by pricing, setup difficulty, support quality, refund policy, and whether it fits your workflow.
FAQ
Q: I can’t see any rules on the sidebar. What do I do?
A: Check old Reddit (old.reddit.com/r/[subredditname]). If rules still don’t appear, look for a pinned post or wiki page. Some subreddits use automod comments that list rules when you post.
Q: Do all subreddits have written rules?
A: No. Some subreddits rely on unwritten norms or moderation discretion. In those cases, lurk for a few days to understand what gets removed or downvoted.
Q: Can I see subreddit rules without joining?
A: Yes. Rules are public unless the subreddit is private or quarantined. You can view them through the sidebar, About tab, or old Reddit without subscribing.
Q: Why do rules sometimes disappear on mobile?
A: The mobile app doesn’t always load sidebar content correctly. Refresh the page or switch to desktop mode in your browser.
Q: What if I still get removed after reading the rules?
A: Some removals are automated based on karma or account age, not rule violations. Check if the subreddit has karma or account age requirements listed in the rules or a separate requirements section.
