Hey Android Users: Clear Your Recycle Bin Now!
On computers, the Recycle Bin is standard. However, many Android users search for it in vain, though it is indeed available. Deleted images, videos, and files are held there temporarily, which is useful if you mistakenly removed something.
Nonetheless, it consumes storage space and can hinder your phone’s performance. Here, we’ll guide you on locating the Recycle Bin on Android, how to access it, and the correct way to empty it.
Clearing the Recycle Bin through the file manager
First, launch your smartphone’s file manager. If you can’t find it immediately, utilize the search feature: swipe down on the home screen and input terms like “Files”, “My Files,” or “File Manager”.
The label and visual layout will differ based on the manufacturer due to various Android interfaces, but it should be relatively similar among Samsung, Google, Xiaomi, and others.
If there’s no file manager pre-loaded, we suggest this free file manager application from the Play Store.
Here’s how to clear the Recycle Bin:
- Launch the file manager.
- Click on the three-dot icon or the menu in the upper-left corner and select ‘Recycle Bin’. In some file managers, it may be labeled ‘Cleaner’, ‘Clean up’, or something similar (refer to the main image above).
- If prompted (as shown below), select which items you wish to delete, such as cached or redundant files.
- Then hit ‘Delete all’, ‘Empty’, or ‘Clean up’ to clear the recycle bin.
Chris Martin / Foundry
Why should you empty the Recycle Bin?
Deleted files continue to occupy storage space on Android while they remain in the Recycle Bin. Depending on your usage patterns, this can quickly amount to several gigabytes, especially if you have many photos and videos.
This can be especially beneficial if your phone or tablet is entirely out of storage, which prevents you from installing more apps or taking additional photos. Additionally, it may enhance your device’s performance.
