The Windows 10 Recycle Bin serves as a storage area for deleted files, folders, and other items. If you accidentally remove important files, you can easily restore them from the Recycle Bin. Where exactly is the Recycle Bin located? How do you access it in Windows 10? MiniTool Software will provide the answers in this article.

Understanding the Windows 10 Recycle Bin

The Windows 10 Recycle Bin is a key component on your computer. When you delete a file or folder, it gets moved to the Recycle Bin instead of being permanently erased. This gives you the opportunity to restore the item if you change your mind.

Locating the Recycle Bin

By default, the Recycle Bin is placed in the upper-left corner of your desktop. It resembles a trashcan icon. An empty trashcan indicates there are no items inside, while a trashcan with papers signifies it contains items.

You have the flexibility to move the Recycle Bin's position. Simply click and drag the icon to your preferred spot. Overall, it’s straightforward to locate the Recycle Bin.

Opening the Windows 10 Recycle Bin

Opening it on your computer is quite simple. Depending on the situation, though, you might need to employ alternative methods. We’ll now outline nine easy ways for you to try. Familiarize yourself with them so you can use the appropriate one when needed.

Methods to Open the Windows 10 Recycle Bin

1. From the desktop
2. Using Windows search
3. Pinning to Start
4. Pinning to the taskbar
5. Utilizing the address bar in File Explorer
6. Through Run
7. Via Quick Access
8. Using Windows PowerShell

Method #1: From the Desktop

This is the standard approach to opening the Windows 10 Recycle Bin. Just double-click its icon on the desktop to access it. Alternatively, right-click the icon and select Open.

Method #2: Using Windows Search

Windows search is a built-in utility that helps locate files, folders, utilities, and more on your computer. You can use it to find the Recycle Bin and open it.

Method #3: Pinning to Start

You can pin the Recycle Bin to the Start menu and access it from there.

1. Right-click the Recycle Bin and select Pin to Start.

2. Click Start and locate the Recycle Bin in the menu.

Method #4: Pinning to the Taskbar

You can also pin it to the taskbar for quick access. A simple click from the taskbar will open it.

Method #5: Using the Address Bar in File Explorer

Case 1:

1. Open File Explorer by clicking This PC.
2. Enter recycle bin into the address bar and press Enter to navigate to it.

Case 2:

Alternatively, click the arrow-down icon in the address bar and choose Recycle Bin.

Case 3:

Navigate to Desktop via the address bar and you’ll see Recycle Bin listed.

Method #6: Through Run

1. Press Win R to open Run.
2. Type shell:RecycleBinFolder and press Enter to instantly open it.

Method #7: Via Quick Access

You can add the Recycle Bin to Quick Access and open it from there.

1. Open This PC.
2. Minimize the This PC window to reveal the Recycle Bin on the desktop.
3. Drag the Recycle Bin to Quick Access.

4. The Recycle Bin will appear in Quick Access. If you’re in This PC and want to open the Recycle Bin, expand Quick Access and click it. To remove it from Quick Access, right-click and select Unpin from Quick Access.

Method #8: Using Windows PowerShell

1. Use Windows search to find Windows PowerShell.
2. Open the first search result.
3. Type the command: start shell:RecycleBinFolder and press Enter to directly open the Recycle Bin.

You don’t need to memorize all these methods. Choose one or more based on your current situation. Once opened, select the desired files to restore; they will return to their original locations. If you can’t find your files in the Recycle Bin, they were likely permanently deleted. In such cases, consider using a free file recovery tool like MiniTool Power Data Recovery to retrieve them.

The free version allows you to recover up to 1GB of data. For additional recovery, consider upgrading to the full version.

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