Remove bookmarks from a PDF

Bookmarks are the clickable outline in the side panel of a PDF viewer. Their titles often reveal internal chapter names or drafts. Remove the whole outline in one step.

How it works

  1. Drop one or more PDF files.
  2. The whole bookmark outline is removed.
  3. Download the PDF without bookmarks.

Works well for

  • PDFs whose outline shows internal chapter names, draft titles or notes.
  • Documents put together from several files, where the bookmarks no longer match the pages.
  • Opening straight on the page: a PDF set to open with the bookmarks panel now opens without it.
  • Removing only the outline while links and the table of contents on the pages keep working.

Limitations

  • All bookmarks are removed – you cannot keep some of them.
  • A table of contents printed on the pages is page content, not bookmarks, and stays.
  • Password-protected (encrypted) PDFs are refused – remove the password first.

Frequently asked questions

What are PDF bookmarks?

An outline stored in the file – a tree of titles that jump to pages, shown in the side panel of your PDF viewer. It is separate from the page content.

Does removing bookmarks change the pages?

No. The pages, their text and images and links stay as they were. Only the outline is deleted.

Is Clean PDF not enough?

Clean PDF can remove bookmarks as well, but the option is off by default, because bookmarks are usually useful. This page has it switched on.

Is the PDF uploaded?

No. It is processed in your browser and stays on your device. Pro users can also use the paid HTTP API.