To hide the Recycle Bin in Windows 11, go to Settings > Personalization > Themes > Desktop icon settings, uncheck Recycle Bin, and click OK. The icon disappears from your desktop, but the Recycle Bin still works. Deleted files still go there, and you can open it from File Explorer whenever you need it.
Below you’ll learn how to open the Recycle Bin once it’s hidden, how to hide all desktop icons at once, and how to add the Recycle Bin to File Explorer or Start for quick access.
How to hide the Recycle Bin icon
- Right-click an empty spot on the desktop and choose Personalize, or open Settings > Personalization.
- Click Themes.
- Scroll down and click Desktop icon settings.
- Uncheck Recycle Bin and click OK.
To bring it back, check Recycle Bin in the same window.
How to open the Recycle Bin when it’s hidden
- Open File Explorer, click the address bar, type Recycle Bin, and press Enter.
- Or press Windows + R, type shell:RecycleBinFolder, and press Enter.
- Or search for Recycle Bin in the Start menu.
Add the Recycle Bin somewhere else
- Start menu: Open the Recycle Bin, right-click it in File Explorer’s address bar or navigation pane, and choose Pin to Start.
- Quick access: Drag the Recycle Bin into the Home or Quick access section of File Explorer, or right-click it and choose Pin to Quick access.
- Navigation pane: In File Explorer, click View > Show > Show all folders to show the Recycle Bin in the left pane.
How to hide all desktop icons
Right-click the desktop and choose View > uncheck Show desktop icons. This hides every icon, including the Recycle Bin, without deleting anything. Repeat to show them again.
Skip the Recycle Bin for deleted files (optional)
If you want files deleted permanently instead of going to the Recycle Bin, open it, right-click it in the navigation pane, choose Properties, and select Don’t move files to the Recycle Bin. This makes deletions permanent, so use it carefully. You can also hold Shift while pressing Delete to skip the Recycle Bin for one file.
Frequently asked questions
Does hiding the Recycle Bin delete my files?
No. It only hides the icon. Your deleted files stay in the Recycle Bin until you empty it.
Why is Desktop icon settings grayed out?
Windows may not be activated, or your organization controls personalization. Activate Windows or ask your IT department.
Can I hide the Recycle Bin in Windows 10?
Yes. Go to Settings > Personalization > Themes > Desktop icon settings and uncheck it.
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.