PHP – The __destruct Function

A destructor is a special method in PHP that is automatically called when:

An object is no longer in use (e.g., at the end of the script).
The script terminates or exits.
The __destruct() function is helpful for cleanup tasks such as closing database connections, freeing resources, or displaying final messages.

Key Note: Like the constructor, the _destruct method starts with two underscores (_).

Here’s an example showcasing how a constructor and a destructor work together:

Example 1: Vehicle Class

<?php
class Vehicle {
  public $type;

  function __construct($type) {
    $this->type = $type;
  }
  function __destruct() {
    echo "The vehicle type is {$this->type}.";
  }
}

$car = new Vehicle("Car");
// Destructor is automatically called at the end of the script
?>

Example 2: Animal Class

<?php
class Animal {
  public $species;
  public $habitat;

  function __construct($species, $habitat) {
    $this->species = $species;
    $this->habitat = $habitat;
  }
  function __destruct() {
    echo "The animal is a {$this->species} that lives in {$this->habitat}.";
  }
}

$elephant = new Animal("Elephant", "forest");
// Destructor is automatically called here
?>

Explanation of Examples:

Vehicle Class Example:

The constructor initializes the $type property when the object ($car) is created.
The destructor outputs a message using the $type property when the script ends.
Animal Class Example:

The constructor initializes $species and $habitat properties when the object ($elephant) is created.
The destructor outputs a final message with both properties when the object is destroyed.
Tip: Constructors and destructors are invaluable in PHP as they help reduce boilerplate code and ensure proper initialization and cleanup of resources in your scripts.