How to Remove Recycle Bin from Desktop: Easy Methods for Windows Users

5 mins read

Updated on 2025-10-27 17:45:48 to Windows Fix

We've all been there - you're working on your desktop, and you just want to clean up your workspace a bit. Whatever the reason, you might be wondering how to remove the Recycle Bin from the desktop without deleting any important files.

Therefore, if you've been asking, how to delete recycle bin from desktop or where is recycle bin in Windows 10, please keep reading! We've got the answers right here.

Part 1: Where Can I Find the Recycle Bin in Windows 10?

Before we get into the methods to remove the Windows trash bin from your desktop, let's clarify exactly where the Recycle Bin is located in Windows 10.

To find the Windows trash bin’s location , here are simple steps:

  • Click on the "Start" button in the lower-left corner of your screen.
  • Search for "Recycle Bin" in the search bar, and it will show up in the search results.
  • Alternatively, navigate to File Explorer > This PC, and you'll find it listed there as well.

Then, let's dive into the methods to remove it from the desktop.

Part 2: How to Remove the Recycle Bin from Desktop?

There are several ways to hide Recycle Bin from your desktop in Windows, each with its own set of steps.

Method 1: Using Personalization Settings

This is one of the quickest and simplest ways to remove the Recycle Bin from your desktop.

  • You need to right-click on the desktop and select “Personalization”.

  • In the Personalization window, click on “Themes”.

  • Then, select “Desktop icon settings” on the right side.

    desktop icon settings
  • Uncheck the box next to Recycle Bin, and hit OK.

    uncheck recycle bin

This will remove the icon from your desktop without deleting the Recycle Bin entirely.

Method 2: Using the Run Command (desk.cpl ,,5)

Another method to remove the Recycle Bin involves using the command. Here's how to do it:

  • Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog.

  • Type in “desk.cpl ,,5” and press “Enter”. This will bring up the Desktop Icon Settings window, where you can uncheck Recycle Bin.

    command removing trash bin

Then just repeat step 4 in method 1 to remove the icon from your desktop.

Method 3: Using Group Policy Editor

For advanced users, the Group Policy Editor can be used to disable the Recycle Bin icon on the desktop . It's particularly useful if you're working in a professional environment or managing multiple computers.

  • First, you should press “Windows + R”, then type “gpedit.msc”, and press Enter.

  • In the Group Policy Editor, navigate to User Configuration > Administrative Templates > Desktop.

    desktop administrative templates
  • Double-click “Remove Recycle Bin icon from desktop”, then select “Enabled” to remove the icon, and then click Apply.

    enabled removing recycle bin

Then just restart your computer, and the Recycle Bin will no longer appear on the desktop.

Bonus: Prevent Accidental Files Deletions with 4DDiG Windows Backup

Backup your important files ahead of time, so you won’t stress if they accidentally end up in the Recycle Bin and get deleted. Using 4DDiG Windows Backup is a smart choice to ensure your data is safe. With 4DDiG, you can easily back up important files and avoid accidental deletions.

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  • Launch the program and select “Create a backup task”.

    create backup task
  • Then, choose the files or partitions you want to back up.

    choose files or partition to backup
  • Next, just click "Satrt backup" and "Confirm" to start your task.

    confirm backup task

After that, waiting for the process to complete, and you'll have a secure backup of your data in case of accidental loss.

More FAQs about How to Delete Recycle Bin from Desktop

Q1: How to remove Recycle Bin from desktop using Group Policy?

You can follow the steps in Method 3 mentioned above.

Q2: Is it possible to delete the Recycle Bin icon on a Mac?

Unfortunately, the Recycle Bin (or Trash) on a Mac cannot be fully deleted. However, you can move the icon to another location on your screen, such as the Dock, to minimize its visibility.

Conclusion

Removing the Recycle Bin from your desktop is a simple process, and there are various methods to do it depending on your needs. And keeping your files protected with a backup is just as important. So, why not get 4DDiG Windows Backup today to make sure your data is always safe and sound?

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William Bollson (senior editor)

William Bollson, the editor-in-chief of 4DDiG, devotes to providing the best solutions for Windows and Mac related issues, including data recovery, repair, error fixes.

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