How To Empty Trash On Windows 11 |best| (2027)

This is the traditional and most accessible method for the majority of users. If you have desktop icons enabled, this is the fastest route.

This review is structured to evaluate the different methods available, highlighting the pros and cons of each, along with tips for managing storage effectively.

Rated: 5/5 Stars

If a user has disabled desktop icons in Windows 11 (Settings > Personalization > Themes > Desktop icon settings), the Recycle Bin disappears from the desktop. In this scenario, Method 3 (Settings > Storage) or typing "Recycle Bin" in the Start menu search bar are the only viable options.

Emptied files are permanently deleted (cannot be restored from Recycle Bin).