The Windows recycle bin usually receives little attention. However, correct handling is just as important for securely removing sensitive data as it is for restoring accidentally deleted content.

The final step is to hide the Recycle Bin from your desktop by right-clicking an empty space on your desktop and selecting Personalize. This will open a settings page on Windows.

If you want to delete a file permanently without sending it to the Recycle Bin, add the 'Permanently Delete' item to the Context Menu.

After checking the Recycle Bin, Microsoft's command-line option is worth a try. But a dedicated recovery tool is often your best bet for retrieving a deleted file. Here's how to use one.

If you've accidentally deleted Desktop folder in Windows 11/10, check the Recycle Bin, use File History, modify Folder Properties, or use a data recovery tool.