This gives you some peace of mind should you accidentally delete something important, while at the same time ensuring your PC isn't clogged up with files you don't need. If removing that safety net is a step too far, you can also set the Recycle Bin to empty itself automatically after a set number of days. How to get the Recycle Bin to empty automatically

Now, when you delete any file like normal, it will give you the option to permanently delete themīy default, this will be set to the C: drive, although you may have to repeat the process if the Recycle Bin stores files from other locations.

Under 'Settings for selected location', ensure you select the option which says 'Don’t move files to the Recycle Bin.

Right-click on the Recycle Bin icon (either on the desktop, taskbar or within the Start Menu) and choose 'Properties'.

If you can't see yourself wanting the Recycle Bin for the foreseeable future, there is a more permanent change:

You should then get a message saying 'Are you sure you want to permanently delete this file?'.

Alternatively, right-click and hold Shift while clicking the 'Delete' option Pressing SHIFT+Delete removes files without moving them to the Recycle Bin This action permanently deletes the selected file(s), and Windows 10 asks for confirmation before it goes ahead with the removal. You can also right-click the files, press and hold the Shift key, and click the Delete option in the context menu. To delete the selected file(s) without moving to the Recycle Bin, press SHIFT+Delete on your keyboard.

Select a file you'd like to permanently delete and hit Shift+Delete. To delete a file, folder, or multiple files and folders immediately, select them in File Explorer and press Shift+Delete on your keyboard.

Open File Explorer, either by searching or clicking the icon in the taskbar.

First up, something you can implement each time you want to delete something: You can bypass the Recycle Bin for one-off occasions, or set it to always delete items immediately.

How to skip the Recycle Bin when deleting files

Many people will appreciate the safety net this offers, but if you'd rather files were deleted instantly, here's how it's done. However, it's not universally admired, primarily because it means you effectively have to delete files twice before they're removed from your device. The Recycle Bin has been around almost as long as Windows itself, offering an easy way to separate the files you want to keep from those you don't.

Windows 10 delete without recycle