How to Remove the Recycle Bin From a Windows Desktop
These instructions work in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, and Windows Vista; Windows XP directions are further down the page.
Windows XP Directions
Windows XP is similar in some ways to newer Windows versions, but it’s missing the option to hide the Recycle Bin. For that, we’ll instead go into the Windows Registry to make a small change. In Windows 11 and Windows 10, open Settings (WIN+i) and then Personalization > Themes. In Windows 8, 7 & Vista, choose Change desktop icons. The change should take effect immediately; just refresh the desktop (right-click > Refresh) to see it disappear. If it doesn’t, restart your computer. To get the Recycle Bin back on the desktop in Windows XP, either restore the registry backup (only do this if you want it back immediately after hiding it) or repeat the steps above, but this time create a new registry key in the NameSpace key and name it the same string you deleted in Step 3.
You Can Still Open the Recycle Bin If You Don’t See It
Despite Recycle Bin no longer showing up on the desktop, it’s not actually gone. This is because there isn’t an option within Windows to completely delete it. This means you can still open it to view deleted files and restore deleted files from the Recycle Bin. It also doesn’t affect your ability to recover files already emptied from the Recycle Bin. To access the hidden Recycle Bin, simply search for it from the taskbar, or change the File Explorer location to Recycle Bin. If you prefer the command line, you can enter this in the Run dialog box to instantly open the Recycle Bin:
How to Skip the Recycle Bin to Delete Files Immediately
Hiding the Recycle Bin makes it a little harder to empty, but it’s a task you’ll need to do if you’re running low on disk space. If you don’t have plans to ever open the Recycle Bin in the future, or you want to keep your deleted files a bit more private, you can edit the bin’s settings so the items you put into the Recycle Bin delete instantly. To be completely clear: The Recycle Bin will empty itself each time you attempt to move an item there. Here’s what to do: If you’ve already hidden the icon, follow the steps above that explain how to access it, then right-click the empty area in the Recycle Bin window, and then choose Properties. Windows XP’s name for this option is a little different: Do not move files to the Recycle Bin. Remove files immediately when deleted.
