Reset Maya UI to Default: A Quick Guide

Joan Jul 01, 2026

Are you a 3D artist or animator struggling with an unruly Maya interface? Don't let a cluttered workspace hinder your creativity. Resetting Maya's UI to its default settings can help you regain control and boost your productivity. Let's guide you through this simple process, step by step.

How to fix object disappear Autodesk Maya?
How to fix object disappear Autodesk Maya?

Before we dive in, remember that resetting the UI doesn't affect your projects, only the layout and settings of Maya's interface. Now, let's dive into the two main methods to reset Maya's UI to its default settings.

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Autodesk Maya - Tips and Tricks - Part 1, Devin Miller

Method 1: Using Maya's Reset Layout Option

Maya provides a quick and easy way to reset your layout with its built-in 'Reset Layout' option. Here's how to use it:

Using Non-destructive Retargeting
Using Non-destructive Retargeting

1. Click on 'Window' in the top menu bar. A dropdown menu will appear.

2. Hover over 'Layouts' in the dropdown menu. Another menu will expand.

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10 General Tips and Tricks in Autodesk Maya

3. Click on 'Reset Layout'. Voila! Your Maya interface should now be back to its default settings.

Understanding Maya's Layouts

Maya allows you to save and switch between different layouts, which can be helpful if you work on various projects with different UI requirements. To save a layout:

uiMaster for Maya — the clamdragon's lair
uiMaster for Maya — the clamdragon's lair

1. Arrange your workspace as desired.

2. Go to 'Window' > 'Layouts' > 'Save Current Layout As...'.

3. Enter a name for your layout and click 'Save'.

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PyQt4 UI Development for Maya

Deleting a Layout in Maya

If you've created a layout by mistake or no longer need it, you can delete it. Here's how:

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1. Go to 'Window' > 'Layouts'.

2. Hover over the layout you want to delete. A small 'X' will appear next to it.

3. Click the 'X' to delete the layout. Confirm the action in the pop-up dialog.

Method 2: Using Maya's Reset Preferences Option

If you've made significant changes to Maya's preferences, resetting the layout might not be enough. In this case, you can reset Maya's preferences to their default settings. Here's how:

1. Close Maya if it's currently open.

2. Open your operating system's file explorer and navigate to the following folder:

- Windows: C:\Users\\AppData\Roaming\Autodesk\Maya\\

- macOS: ~/Library/Preferences/Autodesk/Maya//

3. Locate the 'MayaUI.ini' file and delete it.

4. Reopen Maya. It should now have its default UI settings.

Remember, resetting Maya's preferences will also reset any custom settings you've made, so use this method judiciously. If you've made significant customizations, consider saving your preferences before resetting.

Now that you know how to reset Maya's UI to its default settings, you can keep your workspace clean and optimized for maximum productivity. Happy creating!