Summary: To recover files permanently deleted from the Recycle Bin on Windows, first confirm the files are truly gone by rechecking the bin and using Undo if they are still present. If the bin is empty, look for backups in cloud storage services, which often keep deleted files for up to 30 days. Next, try built-in Windows recovery options, such as Previous Versions, File History, or Command Prompt to restore files from earlier system snapshots or reveal hidden data. If these methods fail and no backup exists, third-party data recovery software can scan the drive for recoverable files, provided the deleted data has not been overwritten. Acting quickly and minimizing PC usage significantly improves recovery success.
Files vanished from your PC when you meant to delete just one thing? The good news is that such a deletion is not always final. You can attempt several Windows file recovery solutions, and below, we will guide you on how.
Contents
- Can you retrieve deleted files from the recycle bin after empty?
- How to recover files deleted from the recycle bin on Windows?
2.1. Double-check your recycle bin.
2.2. Check if backups are available.
2.3. Recover deleted files with built-in Windows tools
- Previous Versions
- File History
- Command Prompt
2.4. Use data recovery software
- Conclusion
- FAQ
Can You Retrieve Deleted Files From the Recycle Bin After Emptying It?
Windows OS maintains file deletion as an immediate process. However, emptying the Recycle Bin is reversible. The system has a restricted time period to restore data because new information will overwrite existing information during this time span. The more you wait, the less likely you are to bring back the files.
The rule of thumb is to stop using your PC right after the data loss occurs. Your success rate will achieve its peak when you start executing actions right away. Windows offers a range of built-in tools you can try to reverse data erasure.
How to Recover Files Deleted From the Recycle Bin on Windows
We offer you a concise four-step algorithm to restore the files after you delete them from the bin.
1. Double-check your Recycle Bin
Before you move to more advanced fixing solutions, ensure the files are indeed removed from the bin.
- Open the bin on your PC
- Verify whether you DID delete the files.
- If the files are still in the bin, right-click the item.
- Select Undo.
- The file will appear at its previous location.
2. Check if backups are available
The factor that will define which recovery method you use is whether you have backed up the deleted files. For that, you must be synchronized with a cloud storage. In such a case, you can open the account and retrieve files from there.
- Log in to your account.
- Go to the Recycle Bin.
- Then, select the file to be recovered.
- Click Restore, and the file reappears at its location.
Note: Mind that cloud storage services typically preserve Recycle Bin content for 30 days. Don’t postpone data recovery using this option.
3. Recover deleted files with built-in Windows tools
Use the Previous Version feature
On Windows PCs, you can restore deleted files by recovering content from automatic backups. It’s only possible when File History/ System Protection is enabled.
- Open the folder where the deleted files originally were.
- Right-click the folder (drive) name.
- Choose Restore Previous Versions.
- Select the time period you want to retrieve files from.
- Click Restore in the bottom right corner.
Retrieve files from File History
Windows 10/11 users can enable the File History feature. It saves your files in the network storage device. The next plan to recover files is to use this option when you find your Recycle Bin empty.
- Open Windows Search Bar.
- Look for “Restore your files with File History”.
- Choose the file version and restore it.
- Keep the file at its original location or drag it elsewhere.
Restore files through Command Prompt
This method can save your files from complete erasure, but it is less effective than some other options described in this blog post. You can use CMD commands to make hidden files visible, and it can reveal files if they haven’t been overwritten.
- Open Command Prompt.
- Insert the command: “chkdsk “drive letter”: /f”
- Hit Enter and Y to run the command.
- The command line will reappear.
- Insert the drive letter and hit Enter.
- Run the command: “ATTRIB -H -R -S /S /D D:*.*”
4. Use data recovery software
Using professional data recovery tools is another solution to restoring files from an empty recycle bin. These apps can detect and recover previously deleted files, allowing users to deep scan the system and preview the files before recovery. Some of the renowned options are Stellar Data Recovery, Recuva, Disk Drill, and EaseUS.
| Software | Free Recovery Limitations |
| Stellar Data Recovery | 1GB |
| Recuva | Unlimited |
| Disk Drill | 500 MB |
| EaseUS Data Recovery | 2GB |
Final Thought
Windows users are able to recover files previously removed from the Recycle Bin. It is important, however, to act immediately to prevent overwriting the data clusters. Windows offers native tools and features to reverse file deletion. Third-party applications are another data restoration option that PC users can benefit from.
FAQs
It depends. If you take prompt action and avoid overwriting the drive, you can probably recover deleted data. Despite the fact that many cloud storage services have a time limit on how long they store Recycle Bin content (30 days on average), having a backup also makes the data recovery process easier.
On Windows, there are various methods to reduce the likelihood of file loss. The go-to solutions are external drive backups or cloud backups. Additionally, turn on Windows’ built-in data recovery capabilities (File History) on your device.
Many data recovery apps offer their users free trials of the free version, with certain data and feature limits. You can also use open-source software, despite it often having a less user-friendly interface.
