Quick Tip

043-2008

RECYCLE BIN: How to empty and resize.

When you decide that a file is no longer needed you delete it. A warning message appears asking you if you really want to send this file to the Recycle Bin.  If you say yes, the file is sent to the Recycle Bin but it is not erased from your hard drive. The Recycle Bin acts as a safety net. 

To get the file back, click on the Recycle Bin Icon on the Desktop and highlight the file you want back. In the common tasks pane on the left side click on Restore This Item or go to the Menu Bar and click on File, then click on Restore.  The file will then be restored to its original location.

Caution: After you delete a file leave it in the Recycle Bin a week or two to see if your computer runs OK without it. If it does, then empty it.  It will then be gone permanently. Empty the Recycle Bin often.  It takes up unnecessary space from your hard drive.

To resize your recycle bin and free up more of your hard drive, hold the ALT key down and double click on the Recycle Bin, move the slider bar from the 10% down to 2 or 3%. I keep mine at the 5% level.