How to Add or Remove Recycle Bin to Windows 11 File Explorer
The Recycle Bin lives inside Windows 11 File Explorer when you add it to the side menu, giving you a fast way to reach deleted files without going back to your desktop. Windows 11 keeps deleted items in this temporary folder until you empty it or restore them.
Putting the Recycle Bin in the left sidebar of File Explorer cuts out extra clicks and clears shortcut clutter right off your screen. You can turn this sidebar shortcut on or off in a few quick steps using the settings menu.
Add the Recycle Bin to File Explorer by editing the Windows Registry. Navigate to the specified CLSID folder, create or modify the System.IsPinnedToNameSpaceTree value, setting its data to 1. Restart your PC to see the Recycle Bin in the navigation pane.
What is File Explorer?
File Explorer serves as the built-in Windows app for finding and managing files and folders.
What is the Recycle Bin?
The Recycle Bin temporarily stores deleted files instead of wiping them right away. Desktop icons usually display this folder by default.
Why add Recycle Bin to File Explorer’s side menu?
- Quickly open the Recycle Bin without minimizing or searching for the desktop icon.
- Easily restore deleted files right from File Explorer .
- Keep your desktop clean by removing the Recycle Bin icon from there.
How to add the Recycle Bin to File Explorer’s navigation pane
Integrating the Recycle Bin into File Explorer puts deleted items within reach. Proceed carefully through each configuration step.
Step 1Open the Windows Registry Editor
Opening the Windows Registry Editor (a hierarchical database storing low-level operating system settings) marks the first step toward managing the Recycle Bin in File Explorer .
- Press Windows key + R on your keyboard.
- Type
regeditand press Enter. - ⚠️ Admin privileges required: If a message pops up asking for permission, click Yes.
Registry guides for Windows 11 provide extra details for anyone needing further context. These resources explain how to access and modify system settings for customizing File Explorer appearance.
Step 2Find the right folder in the Registry
Adding or removing the Recycle Bin requires locating a specific folder inside the Registry Editor.
Computer\HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Classes\CLSID\{645FF040-5081-101B-9F08-00AA002F954E}Manual creation becomes necessary if the folder {645FF040-5081-101B-9F08-00AA002F954E} remains hidden:
- Right-click on CLSID folder in the left panel.
- Select New > Key.
- Name the new key exactly:
{645FF040-5081-101B-9F08-00AA002F954E}.
Step 3Add or change a value to show Recycle Bin
Altering a specific value inside the Registry folder controls Recycle Bin visibility within File Explorer.
Locate the entry named System.IsPinnedToNameSpaceTree (this setting controls showing the Recycle Bin).
- If it's there, double-click it.
- If it's NOT there, right-click on a blank space, then choose New > DWORD (32-bit) Value, and name it exactly
System.IsPinnedToNameSpaceTree. - Set the value data to 1 to turn this feature ON:
- Value data:
1
- Value data:
- Then click OK.
Step 4Close Registry Editor and restart your PC
Save all open work, close active programs, and reboot the system to apply changes.
Step 5Check File Explorer
Open File Explorer (press Windows key + E) and inspect the left navigation pane. The Recycle Bin should appear there now.
Summary
Sidebar access keeps deleted files within reach while letting you clear clutter off the desktop.- Adding Recycle Bin to File Explorer helps you open deleted files quickly.
- You need to carefully edit the Windows Registry and restart your PC.
- This keeps your desktop neat by removing the Recycle Bin icon from there.
- After this, the Recycle Bin icon is always ready in File Explorer's side menu.
- If you want to put the Recycle Bin back on your desktop later, you can do that easily from Personalization > Themes > Desktop icon settings.
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About the Author
Richard
Tech Writer, IT Professional
Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.
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