How to make files not go to the Recycle Bin in Windows

Updated: 06/02/2020 by Computer Hope
Windows Recycle Bin

To delete files in Microsoft Windows without sending them to the Recycle Bin, use Shift or disable the Recycle Bin.

Note

Using these methods may make it difficult or impossible to recover a file after it's deleted.

Use the Shift key

When deleting the file, press and hold Shift and Delete. Holding Shift is a keyboard shortcut for users to selectively choose what files not to send to the Recycle Bin.

Disable the Recycle Bin

Follow the steps below to disable the feature of sending files to the Recycle Bin for all files.

  1. Right-click the Recycle Bin icon on the desktop and select Properties.
  2. Select the option for "Do not move files to the Recycle Bin. Remove files immediately when deleted" or "Do not move items to recycling bin once deleted."
  3. Click OK.
Tip

After following the steps above, you may also want to hide the Windows Recycle Bin desktop icon. For more information, see: How to hide or delete the Windows desktop Recycle Bin icon.