Red buttons—you’ve seen them on interfaces used for deleting data. The red is meant to alert users they’re about to perform a destructive action, encouraging them to be more cautious when clicking. However, what it actually does is compel them to click the button, leading to accidental data deletions.

It’s no secret that red buttons tend to get a higher click rate, as several studies have shown. However, in the context of data deletion, you don’t want this. A high click rate indicates that a percentage of users are unintentionally clicking the button, which can be dangerous.

Red is a dangerous color because it enhances the user’s motor output. In other words, it speeds up and intensifies their physical reactions ( source ). Not only that, but red also “increases anxiety and depletes resources for self-control” ( source ). With less self-control, it’s easy to click the button by mistake.

A better approach that won’t cause serious accidents is to use a red icon instead of a red delete button. The red icon at the top of the modal dialog grabs attention, but doesn’t compel users to take immediate action. The icon is enough to warn them they’re about to perform a destructive action.

The delete button should be a neutral color, such as black, so that it doesn’t influence a click. However, if you want an additional cue to strengthen the alert, you can add a red trash can icon in the label. Just make sure that the button background has enough color contrast for accessibility.

The end result is a delete button that doesn’t provoke users into overreacting. It allows them to carefully consider their decision to prevent accidental deletion. It’s time to stop using red buttons and start using red icons instead.