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How to Easily Change Recycle Bin Settings on Windows 11
The Recycle Bin is more than a trash can, if you know how to use it
5 min. read
Updated onMarch 26, 2024
updated onMarch 26, 2024
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Key notes
For most people, the Recycle Bin is just storage for deleted files that can be restored later or get rid of permanently. What you may not realize is that you have the ability to configure it and decide what happens when you delete files from your computer.
Given how easy it is to change these settings, you should be able to adjust them in no time and enjoy a new look, efficiency, and a customized Recycle Bin.
Why should I manage my Recycle Bin settings? If you’re not careful, the Recycle Bin can fill up with files that you don’t need to keep permanently but want to keep just in case. That’s why you need to decide what happens to these files instead of leaving them hanging.
Also, you risk ending up with aslow computerwith unnecessary files taking up valuable space on your hard drive. A better solution is to set up rules for what gets stored there and when it gets deleted automatically.
How do I change the Recycle Bin settings on Windows 11?
1. Finding and accessing the Recycle Bin in Windows 11
By default, the Recycle Bin is saved on the Desktop, but if not, you can enable it by:
If you’d like tohide the Recycle Bin from your Desktop, simply reverse-engineer these steps.
2. Adjusting General Settings for Windows 11’s Recycle Bin
3. Managing Folder and File Icons Within Windows 11’s Recycle bin
For more options on how tochange the Recycle bin icon, check out our detailed article.
4. Deleting Files from Your Windows 11’s Recycle bin
Find out how you can alsoempty your Recycle Bin automatically in Windows 10.
It’s important that you have abackup of your filesbecause once files are deleted, you can’t retrieve them.
So, how easy was that? You were able to change your Recycle Bin settings without the need for any third-party software or resources. Once again, the Windows GUI comes through for you. Changing your recycle bin settings can have a big impact on your computing experience, so try it today.
If you want to know how toget the restored files from Recycle Bin if they are missing,then read this guide.
Most of these settings can be applied on previous versions as well, and to learn more, check our guide on how touse Recycle Bin on Windows 10.
What are your thoughts? Are these settings good enough, or doing a good job of enhancing the efficiency of this feature? Let us know in the comment section.
More about the topics:Recycle Bin,Windows 11
Claire Moraa
Windows Software Expert
Claire has a knack for solving problems and improving the quality of life for those around her. She’s driven by rationality, curiosity, and simplicity, and always eager to learn more about Microsoft’s products. With a background in teaching and reviewing, she breaks down complex topics into easily understandable articles, focusing mostly on Windows 11, errors, and software.
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Claire Moraa
Windows Software Expert
With a background in teaching and reviewing, she breaks down complex topics into easily understandable articles, focusing mostly on Windows 11 errors.
Reviewed byAlex Serban
