Introduction
Windows users are familiar with the Recycle Bin icon that sits prominently on the desktop, acting as a temporary storage space for deleted files. While the Recycle Bin serves as a safety net for files that were accidentally deleted, some users may prefer a cleaner desktop interface without the icon clutter. If you’re looking to remove the Recycle Bin icon from your desktop, this guide will walk you through the steps to achieve that.
How To Remove The Recycle Bin From Desktop
Method 1: Desktop Icon Settings
This method is the easiest way to remove the Recycle Bin icon from your desktop.
- Right-click on an empty area of your desktop.
- Select Personalize from the dropdown menu.
- In the Personalization window, click on Themes in the left sidebar.
- Scroll down and click on Desktop icon settings under the “Related Settings” section.
- Uncheck the box next to Recycle Bin in the Desktop Icon Settings window.
- Click Apply and then OK to save the changes.
Method 2: Registry Editor
For more advanced users, you can use the Registry Editor to remove the Recycle Bin icon from your desktop. Proceed with caution as editing the registry can potentially harm your system if not done correctly.
- Press Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box.
- Type regedit and press Enter to open the Registry Editor.
- Navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Desktop\NameSpace.
- Find the key named {645FF040-5081-101B-9F08-00AA002F954E}.
- Delete the key by right-clicking on it and selecting Delete.
- Close the Registry Editor and restart your computer for the changes to take effect.
Method 3: Group Policy Editor
If you are using Windows Pro or Enterprise editions, you can utilize the Group Policy Editor to remove the Recycle Bin icon from the desktop.
- Press Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box.
- Type gpedit.msc and press Enter to open the Group Policy Editor.
- Navigate to User Configuration > Administrative Templates > Desktop.
- Find the policy named Remove Recycle Bin icon from desktop.
- Double-click on the policy to open the configuration window.
- Select Enabled and click Apply then OK.
Conclusion
Removing the Recycle Bin icon from your desktop can help declutter your workspace and provide a cleaner aesthetic. Whether you opt for the easy method through Desktop Icon Settings or the more advanced methods using the Registry Editor or Group Policy Editor, following the steps outlined in this guide will help you achieve a Recycle Bin-free desktop. Remember to proceed with caution when making changes to system settings to avoid unintended consequences.
