To free up storage by emptying trash in Windows 11, use the Recycle Bin. There are two common cases:
- Desktop icons are hidden (no Recycle Bin visible)
- Right-click on the desktop and select View.
- Make sure Show desktop icons is checked.
- If the Recycle Bin icon appears, right-click it and select Empty Recycle Bin, then confirm.
- Desktop shows icons but Recycle Bin is missing
- Open Settings.
- Go to Personalization > Themes.
- Select Desktop icon settings.
- Check the box for Recycle Bin, then select OK.
- On the desktop, right-click Recycle Bin and select Empty Recycle Bin, then confirm.
Emptying the Recycle Bin permanently removes those files and frees the disk space.
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