How to Fix the Recycle Bin Icon

Deleted files are not truly gone until you empty the Recycle Bin.

In Windows, the Recycle Bin is essentially the pre-deletion area for files that you think you want to erase. When you "delete" a file, it first spends time in the Recycle Bin until you decide you will never want it back. The Recycle Bin is the only desktop icon in Windows without a simple secondary access method. If the icon is not displayed on the desktop, you cannot use it without tweaks or third-party software. If you have accidentally removed the Recycle Bin or changed the desktop icon, each version of Windows includes a way for you to return it to its original state.

Instructions

Windows XP

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

2. Double-click "Display." If you do not see this icon, click "Appearance and Themes," and then click "Display."

3. Click the "Desktop" tab, and then click "Customize Desktop."

4. Click "Recycle Bin [full]" and then click "Restore Default."

5. Click "Recycle Bin [empty]" and then click "Restore Default."

6. Click "OK" twice and close the Control Panel window.

Windows Vista and 7

1. Click the Windows Orb, and then click "Control Panel."

2. Double-click "Personalization." If you do not see this icon, click "Appearance and Personalization," and then click "Personalization."

3. Click "Change Desktop Icons."

4. Place a check in the box labeled "Recycle Bin" under "Desktop Icons" in the top half of the window.

5. Click "Recycle Bin (full)" and then click "Restore Default."

6. Click "Recycle Bin (empty)" and then click "Restore Default."

7. Click "OK" and close the Control Panel window.

References

• Vista 4 Beginners: Customize Your Desktop Icons
• 5 Star Support: Add Familiar Icons Back to Your Desktop