How to empty Recycle Bin automatically?

Hello James,

Thank you for posting your question on our forum.

Here are several ways to set up Windows to automatically empty the Recycle Bin:

1) Use Windows Storage Sense

- Press Win + I to open Settings.

- Go to System > Storage.

- Toggle Storage Sense to On.

- Click Configure Storage Sense or run it now.

- Under Temporary Files, select how often you want Windows to delete files in the Recycle Bin

2) Use Task Scheduler

- Press Win + S, type Task Scheduler, and open it.

- In the right panel, click Create Basic Task.

- Name it something like 'Empty Recycle Bin'.

- Set the trigger (e.g., daily, weekly, at startup).

- For the action, choose Start a Program.

- In the Program/script box, type:

cmd.exe

-In Add arguments, type:

/c "PowerShell.exe -NoProfile -Command Clear-RecycleBin -Force"

- Save the task. Windows will now empty the bin automatically on schedule.

3) Use Group Policy (Windows Pro/Enterprise only)

- Press Win + R, type gpedit.msc, press Enter.

- Navigate to:

User Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Storage Sense

- Enable Allow Storage Sense and configure when Recycle Bin cleanup should occur.

If you need further assistance, please don't hesitate to contact us!