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Windows 11

Show Recycle Bin on desktop windows

How to Show Recycle Bin on Desktop Windows for Easy Access

The Recycle Bin is a familiar and crucial part of the Windows operating system, providing a safety net for deleted files. While typically visible, it might sometimes be hidden, or you might be setting up a new PC. If you’re wondering how to show the Recycle Bin on your desktop in Windows, this guide provides clear, step-by-step instructions for Windows 11 and Windows 10.

Why Would You Want to Show the Recycle Bin on Your Desktop?

Having the Recycle Bin visible on your desktop offers several conveniences:

  • Quick Access: Easily drag and drop files to delete them or open the Recycle Bin to restore items.
  • Visual Cue: Quickly see if there are items in the Recycle Bin (the icon changes when it contains files).
  • Familiarity: Most users are accustomed to having it readily available.

How to Show the Recycle Bin on Your Desktop in Windows

The method to show the Recycle Bin on your desktop in Windows involves accessing the Desktop Icon Settings, which is done through the Personalization options in the Settings app. The steps are very similar for Windows 11 and Windows 10.

Method 1: Steps to Show Recycle Bin on Desktop Windows 11

  1. Open Settings: Right-click on the Start button (the Windows logo on the taskbar) and select Settings from the menu. Alternatively, you can press the Windows key + I.
  2. Navigate to Personalization: In the Settings window, click on Personalization in the left-hand sidebar.
  3. Go to Themes: Scroll down in the Personalization options and click on Themes.
  4. Open Desktop icon settings: Within the Themes settings, scroll down to find and click on Desktop icon settings (it might be under “Related settings”).
  5. Enable Recycle Bin: In the “Desktop Icon Settings” dialog box that appears, check the box next to Recycle Bin.
  6. Apply Changes: Click Apply and then OK.

The Recycle Bin icon should now appear on your desktop.

Method 2: Steps to Show Recycle Bin on Desktop Windows 10

  1. Open Settings: Right-click on the Start button (the Windows logo on the taskbar) and select Settings (the gear icon) from the menu. You can also press Windows key + I.
  2. Navigate to Personalization: In the Settings window, click on Personalization.
  3. Go to Themes: In the Personalization options, select Themes from the left-hand sidebar.
  4. Open Desktop icon settings: On the Themes page, look to the right-hand side (or scroll down) for a link under “Related Settings” called Desktop icon settings. Click on it.
  5. Enable Recycle Bin: In the “Desktop Icon Settings” window, ensure the checkbox next to Recycle Bin is ticked.
  6. Apply Changes: Click the Apply button and then OK.

The Recycle Bin should now be visible on your Windows 10 desktop.

What If the Recycle Bin is Still Not Visible?

If you’ve followed the steps to show the Recycle Bin on your desktop in Windows but it’s still missing, try these troubleshooting steps:

  • Ensure Desktop Icons are Shown: Right-click on an empty area of your desktop, go to View, and make sure Show desktop icons is checked. If it’s unchecked, your Recycle Bin (and all other desktop icons) will be hidden.
  • Tablet Mode (Windows 10): If you’re on a Windows 10 device, ensure Tablet Mode is not active, as it can sometimes alter desktop icon visibility. You can check this in the Action Center or Settings.
  • Restart Windows Explorer: Sometimes, the Windows Explorer process might need a refresh. You can restart it via Task Manager (Ctrl + Shift + Esc, find “Windows Explorer,” right-click, and select “Restart”).

By following these instructions, you should easily be able to show the Recycle Bin on your desktop in Windows, ensuring quick access to managing your deleted files.