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How to Empty the Recycle Bin in Windows

Permanently remove files that are currently in the Recycle Bin.

Quick Answer

Right-click Recycle Bin and choose Empty Recycle Bin.

Step by Step

  1. Open or right-click Recycle Bin.
  2. Review its contents if there is any chance you need to restore something.
  3. Choose Empty Recycle Bin.
  4. Confirm the deletion.

If That Doesn't Work

  • Emptying the Recycle Bin makes normal restoration much harder.
  • For sensitive or important files, make sure you have backups before permanently deleting them.

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