How to Open the Recycle Bin in Windows 11 (With or Without the Icon)
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How to open Recycle Bin in Windows 11 might not be an issue for most users, but some to have this problem, mostly due to how different system iterations are set by default. Whether you’re trying to recover recently deleted items or free up disk space, the Recycle Bin is where removed files are stored before they’re permanently erased. If you’re unsure how to find it, or want quicker ways to access it, this guide outlines multiple methods using the desktop, search, File Explorer, and more.
Table of contents
Easy Ways to Access the Recycle Bin in Windows 11
1. From the Desktop (Most Direct Method)
This is the default and most familiar option:
- Navigate to your desktop
- Double-click the Recycle Bin icon
You’ll now see recently deleted items. From here, you can restore, review, or permanently delete files.
? Can’t find the icon? Scroll down to learn how to bring it back.
2. Use the Search Bar
If the Recycle Bin isn’t visible on your desktop, searching for it works too:
- Press the Windows key or click the Start menu
- Type Recycle Bin into the search box
- Select the Recycle Bin app from the results
This opens the same view you’d see from the desktop.
3. Open via File Explorer
If you’re already working in File Explorer and want quick access:
- Press Windows + E to open File Explorer
- Click the address bar at the top
- Type Recycle Bin and hit Enter
This is handy when you’re managing files and want to avoid switching windows.
How to Restore the Missing Recycle Bin Icon
If the Recycle Bin isn’t showing up on your desktop, it may have been disabled. Here’s how to fix it:
- Right-click on an empty space on the desktop
- Select Personalize
- Go to the Themes section
- Under Related settings, click Desktop icon settings
- Check the box next to Recycle Bin
- Click Apply, then OK
The icon should now appear on your desktop again.
Bonus: Pin Recycle Bin to Start or Taskbar
Want one-click access without returning to the desktop?
- Right-click the Recycle Bin icon
- Choose Show more options
- Select Pin to Start or Pin to Taskbar
You’ll now have faster access from wherever you are in the OS.
FAQs
It’s likely hidden. You can enable it by navigating to Settings > Personalization > Themes > Desktop icon settings.
Yes. Just open it, right-click the file you want, and choose Restore to return it to its original location.
Yes. Once emptied, the files are permanently deleted and only recoverable with specialized recovery software.
Not really. Each drive maintains its own hidden Recycle Bin folder, but they’re all accessed through the same unified interface.
There’s no built-in hotkey, but if you pin it to the taskbar, you can use Windows + [Number] to open it based on its position.
Final Thoughts
Knowing how to open Recycle Bin in Windows 11 helps you quickly recover or permanently remove files with ease. Whether you open it from the desktop, use the search feature, or access it through File Explorer, managing deleted items only takes a few steps. And if the icon is missing, restoring it is simple. For even more convenience, pinning it to the taskbar or Start menu keeps it just one click away.
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