Deleted files not going to recycle bin windows 10

If your deleted files aren’t going to the Recycle Bin in Windows 10. this might be due to various reasons, including settings misconfigurations, disk space issues, or system errors. 

1.Windows 10 中的回收站

The Recycle Bin is a crucial feature in Windows operating systems that temporarily stores deleted files and folders. This allows users to restore files if they were deleted by mistake. However, there are situations where deleted files bypass the Recycle Bin entirely, going straight to permanent deletion.

2. Possible Reasons Files Are Not Going to the Recycle Bin

2.1 File Size Exceeds the Recycle Bin’s Limit

The Recycle Bin has a storage limit based on a percentage of the drive size. If the deleted file is too large, it might bypass the Recycle Bin. Windows prompts a warning that the file will be permanently deleted if this happens, but you can adjust the storage limit to accommodate larger files.

2.2 Shift + Delete Shortcut

When you delete a file using the Shift + Delete keyboard shortcut, it bypasses the Recycle Bin and is permanently deleted. If you’re used to using this shortcut, this might explain why files aren’t going to the Recycle Bin.

2.3 Recycle Bin Settings

Incorrect settings can cause files to bypass the Recycle Bin. For example, if the “Don’t move files to the Recycle Bin. Remove files immediately when deleted” option is selected, files will be permanently deleted rather than sent to the Recycle Bin.

2.4 Insufficient Disk Space

When a drive has insufficient space, Windows may automatically bypass the Recycle Bin to free up space, permanently deleting the files.

2.5 Third-Party Software

Some third-party file management or antivirus software can alter the behavior of file deletion, causing files to bypass the Recycle Bin.

2.6 Corrupted Recycle Bin

The Recycle Bin itself can become corrupted due to system errors or improper shutdowns, leading to abnormal behavior, including not storing deleted files.

3. Diagnosing and Fixing the Issue

3.1 Check Recycle Bin Settings

Ensure that the settings in the Recycle Bin properties are correctly configured:

Right-click on the Recycle Bin icon on the desktop.

Select “Properties.”

Check that the option “Don’t move files to the Recycle Bin” is unchecked.

Adjust the maximum size of the Recycle Bin if needed.

Click “Apply” and “OK.”

3.2 Adjust Disk Space

Make sure there is enough free space on the drive:

Open “File Explorer.”

Right-click on the drive where the files are being deleted from and select “Properties.”

Check the available space. If it’s low, consider deleting unnecessary files or moving them to another drive.

3.3 Repair Corrupted Recycle Bin

To repair a corrupted Recycle Bin:

Open “Command Prompt” as an administrator.

Type the following command and press Enter:

bash

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rd /s /q C:\$Recycle.bin

This command deletes the Recycle Bin folder, and Windows will recreate it. After running the command, restart your computer.

3.4 Disable Third-Party Software

If you suspect third-party software is causing the issue, try disabling or uninstalling the software and see if the problem persists.

3.5 Use Group Policy Editor

If you are using Windows 10 Pro or Enterprise, you can use the Group Policy Editor to manage Recycle Bin behavior:

Press Win + R, type gpedit.msc, and press Enter.

Navigate to “User Configuration” > “Administrative Templates” > “Windows Components” > “File Explorer.”

Look for “Do not move deleted files to the Recycle Bin” and ensure it’s set to “Not Configured” or “Disabled.”

3.6 Check Registry Settings

You can also check the registry settings:

Press Win + R, type regedit, and press Enter.

Navigate to HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\Explorer.

Look for a key named “NoRecycleFiles.” If it exists and is set to 1. change it to 0 or delete the key.

4. Prevention Strategies

4.1 Regularly Check Recycle Bin Settings

Periodically check the settings to ensure they haven’t changed, especially after system updates or installing new software.

4.2 Avoid Shift + Delete

Be cautious with the Shift + Delete shortcut if you want to keep files in the Recycle Bin temporarily.

4.3 Use Data Recovery Software

Consider using reliable data recovery software like Panda Assistant if files are permanently deleted and need to be recovered.

4.4 Backup Important Files

Regular backups can prevent data loss if files are accidentally deleted. Windows 10 offers built-in backup solutions like File History, which you can enable to back up files automatically.