Windows 11: How To Open Recycle Bin

Open PowerShell or Terminal. Type: Start-Process shell:RecycleBinFolder This launches the Bin from a script. Useful for automated clean-up routines.

Click the Search icon (magnifying glass) on the taskbar. Type "Recycle Bin." It will appear as a system app. Right-click it to "Pin to Start" for future use. how to open recycle bin windows 11

The Recycle Bin isn't an icon—it's a system object. Treat it like one. Learn one keyboard method ( Win + R → shell:RecycleBinFolder ) and you'll never be stuck again, even on a stripped-down corporate PC or a fresh Windows 11 install with no desktop icons. Open PowerShell or Terminal

Unlike Windows 10, Windows 11 aggressively hides desktop icons in "Clean desktop" views. New updates sometimes reset your "Show desktop icons" setting. Knowing a non-desktop method ensures you never lose access to deleted files. Click the Search icon (magnifying glass) on the taskbar