How to Restore the Recycle Bin in Windows Vista

With Windows Vista, it's easy to accidentally delete your recycle bin when emptying files you no longer need. To empty the recycle bin, you right-click the icon. However, if you're not careful, you may end up selecting delete instead of empty. If your recycle bin has been deleted, you will still have the option to send files to the bin. However, you won't be able to permanently remove them without restoring your recycle bin.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Computer

1. Open the Start menu from your desktop. Select "Control Panel."

2. Click "Appearance and Personalization" from the right-hand side of the Control Panel window. Click "Personalization."

3. Click "Change desktop icons" located under "Tasks" from the left-hand side of the Control Panel window.

4. Check the box next to "Recycle Bin" and click "OK."

Tips & Warnings

• Restoring the recycle bin icon doesn't create a new recycle bin; it simply gives you access to the original once again.

References

• Restore Recycle Bin Tips