This will instantly transport you to the Recycle Bin view.
If you’re troubleshooting a PC where File Explorer is behaving strangely after an update, use this universal method:
Every drive on your computer has a hidden, protected operating system folder named $Recycle.Bin . This is where Windows actually stores your deleted files before they are permanently purged. Open and go to This PC . Open your local disk (usually Local Disk C: ). where is the recycle bin in file explorer upd
If you’ve recently updated Windows (to Windows 10 or 11) or are simply accustomed to seeing the Recycle Bin on your desktop, you might be frustrated trying to find it inside . The short answer is: The Recycle Bin does not appear as a standard folder in File Explorer’s default "This PC" view.
If you prefer a hybrid approach, you can first restore the Recycle Bin icon to your desktop (if it’s missing), then drag it into File Explorer’s navigation pane. However, note that dragging doesn’t move the bin—it creates a shortcut. This will instantly transport you to the Recycle Bin view
The Recycle Bin is a virtual shell folder (CLSID: 645FF040-5081-101B-9F08-00AA002F954E ), not a physical directory like C:\Recycler (which is hidden and system-protected).
If you use it frequently, you can "pin" it so it's always at the top under Quick Access How to Open Recycle Bin in Windows 11 4 Nov 2024 — Open and go to This PC
This is a non-permanent fix that is very useful for quick access.
Have you tried these methods? Share your experience or let us know if you encounter any issues after the latest Windows update in the comments below.
Look at the very left edge of the address bar. You will see a small or a chevron icon next to the home icon.
The Recycle Bin is not inside “This PC” or a drive (like C:). It’s a special system folder located at the desktop level, but accessible via File Explorer’s navigation pane.