The Windows recycling bin can be a real life-saver when you think you’ve accidentally erased a file. The problem is when you do need to recover a deleted file, and you can’t because of a corrupted recycling bin.
The good news is that there are some tips you can try to fix it. It’s also a good idea to try and remember the last thing you did with your computer before you got the error message. Maybe that file you downloaded affected the recycling bin in some way.
Reset the Windows 10 Recycling Bin
Maybe what the recycling bin needs a good old reset. To reset the recycling bin:
- Search for the Command Prompt
- Right-click on the Command Prompt option and run as an administrator
- Type this command: rd /s /q C:\$Recycle.bin (If the issue is on another drive, make sure to change the C: to the right drive.
The $Recycle.bin will now be deleted. You’ll need to restart your computer, and once it’s done rebooting, you should be looking at your new recycling bin.
Re-install the Recycling Bin
Sometimes, the best thing you can is start fresh. To uninstall the recycling bin:
- Go to Settings (Windows and I keys, keyboard shortcut)
- Search for Desktop icons and choose Themes and related settings
- Uncheck the Recycle Bin box
- Reboot your computer
- Follow steps one and two, but this time check the Recycle Bin box
- Click OK
Conclusion
Running a malware scan can also be useful since maybe a file you downloaded caused the problem. You can use trustworthy options such as ESET, AVG, or Norton, just to mention a few.
Try uninstalling any programs you think might be causing the problem and try opening the recycling bin again. How long have you been facing this problem? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
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