How List-Unsubscribe helps email deliverability

The List-Unsubscribe header is an email header that provides a simple way for recipients to unsubscribe from an email list directly from their inbox, without needing to open the email and find the unsubscribe link inside the message.

Here’s how it works:

• Purpose: The List-Unsubscribe header is included in the email’s metadata (not visible in the body of the email). It tells the email client (e.g., Gmail, Outlook) that a mechanism is available to unsubscribe from future messages.

• How it Appears: In some email clients, like Gmail and Outlook, if the email includes the List-Unsubscribe header, the recipient may see an unsubscribe or opt-out button at the top of the email, next to the sender’s name, making it easier for them to opt out without needing to search for a link within the email content itself.

• How It Benefits You: Including this header helps improve the user experience by offering an easy, one-click unsubscribe option. It can also help improve email deliverability, as ISPs (Internet Service Providers) often prefer or even require this header as part of best practices.

Example of a List-Unsubscribe header:

This header contains one or more methods for unsubscribing—often an email address for a direct opt-out or a URL where users can unsubscribe.

Why it Matters:

• Convenience for Recipients: It gives users a simple way to unsubscribe without hunting for a link in the body of the email.

• Compliance and Best Practices: It’s a recommended best practice for email marketers to help maintain a clean list and comply with anti-spam laws.

• Improved Deliverability: Using the List-Unsubscribe header correctly can signal to ISPs that you’re following best practices, potentially improving the likelihood that your emails will reach the inbox rather than being marked as spam.