on any empty space in the left sidebar (navigation pane).
If you can't see the icon or prefer a different method, try these: where is the recycle bin in file explorer upd
Open Task Manager ( Ctrl + Shift + Esc ), find "Windows Explorer," right-click it, and select Restart . on any empty space in the left sidebar (navigation pane)
By default, the sidebar (Navigation Pane) in File Explorer is often cluttered or overly simplified. You can force it to show the Recycle Bin permanently. Open . You can force it to show the Recycle Bin permanently
While this isn't technically "inside" File Explorer, it is the standard way to access it. If your icon is missing from your desktop: Go to > Personalization > Themes . Scroll down and click on Desktop icon settings . Check the box for Recycle Bin and click OK . Why is the Recycle Bin "Hidden"?
This simple trick eliminates the need to search for the Recycle Bin ever again.
Last updated: March 2025. Covers Windows 10 22H2 and Windows 11 24H2 (2025 Update).