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Find Recycle Bin from File Explorer
- Open File Explorer.
- If the Navigation pane is hidden, select View from the command bar, choose Show, then select Navigation pane.
- Select Desktop in the Navigation pane.
- Open the Recycle Bin desktop icon.
Microsoft documents Desktop as a known folder in the Windows 11 Navigation pane, starting with version 22H2. Its guidance does not describe Recycle Bin as a separate, regular File Explorer folder. See Microsoft’s File Explorer guide.
If every desktop icon is missing
Desktop icons may be hidden. Turn them back on from the desktop context menu:
- Right-click an empty area of the desktop.
- Select View.
- Make sure Show desktop icons is enabled.
Microsoft’s Recycle Bin guidance recommends this check when desktop icons are not visible.
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If other icons are visible but Recycle Bin is missing
If other desktop icons appear, enable the Recycle Bin icon in Desktop icon settings:
- Open Settings.
- Select Personalization, then Themes.
- Select Desktop icon settings.
- Check Recycle Bin, then select OK.
Microsoft says Recycle Bin should then appear on the desktop. The exact interface labels can vary with your Windows language or localization. For details, see Microsoft’s desktop icon instructions.
Which fix should you try?
| What you see | What to do |
|---|---|
| No desktop icons are visible | Right-click the desktop, choose View, and enable Show desktop icons. |
| Other desktop icons are visible, but Recycle Bin is missing | Open Settings > Personalization > Themes > Desktop icon settings, check Recycle Bin, and select OK. |
| You are browsing in File Explorer | Show the Navigation pane if needed, then select Desktop. |
FAQ
Is Recycle Bin a regular folder in Windows 11 File Explorer?
No. Recycle Bin is normally a desktop icon, rather than a regular folder listed separately in File Explorer. You can use File Explorer’s Navigation pane to go to Desktop.
How do I get to Desktop from File Explorer?
In File Explorer, show the Navigation pane through View > Show > Navigation pane if it is hidden, then select Desktop.
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Why is Recycle Bin missing from my desktop?
Either all desktop icons are hidden, or the Recycle Bin icon is disabled. Enable Show desktop icons from the desktop’s View menu, or turn on Recycle Bin in Desktop icon settings.
How do I put Recycle Bin back on the desktop?
Open Settings > Personalization > Themes > Desktop icon settings, check Recycle Bin, and select OK.
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