How to Retrieve Your Deleted Files From the Recycle Bin

The Recycle Bin is where Windows computers temporarily store deleted files and folders. Deleted files remain in the Recycle Bin until you either empty or it becomes full and automatically empties itself. Therefore, for a limited time, if you accidentally delete files from your computer and want to get them back, you can retrieve deleted files from the Recycle Bin.

Instructions

1. Double-click on the icon of the Recycle Bin on your computer's desktop.

2. Click on the file that you want to retrieve to select it.

3. Click "Restore this item" under "Recycle Bin Tasks" in the left-hand column of the Recycle Bin window.

Tips & Warnings

• Retrieve more than one deleted file at a time by holding down the control key as you click on the deleted files that you want to retrieve.

• If your Recycle Bin has been emptied, then the deleted files that you seek to retrieve might not be in it.

References

• Microsoft Windows XP: Delete or Restore Files in the Recycle Bin