How to Restore Recycle Bin in Windows Vista

A recycle bin holds items until you dump them for good.

Windows Vista introduced the ability to delete an important icon, such as the Recycle Bin, from a computer's desktop. When a Vista user right-clicks the Recycle Bin and accidentally clicks "Delete" instead of "Empty Recycle Bin," the Recycle Bin disappears from the desktop. Fortunately, you can restore the icon to its default location.

Instructions

1. Click the "Start" button and click "Control Panel."

2. Click "Appearance and Personalization" and then "Personalization."

3. Click "Change desktop icons" in the left pane.

4. Click the box next to "Recycle Bin" to put a check in it. Click "OK" to save your change.

References

• Microsoft Support: How Do I Make the Recycle Bin Appear on My Desktop in Windows Vista or in Windows XP?