How to Delete Files Permanently on Windows 10

In our previous post, we discussed about how you can remove or hide the recycle bin from the Windows 10 desktop. But then, this approach will not prevent Windows from sending the deleted items to the Recycle bin. The deleted items continue to exist in the Recycle bin folder and still consuming your hard drive space until you manually empty the bin. If you hate the idea of needing to empty the Recycle bin at regular intervals, you can actually setup Windows 10 to delete files permanently. That way, the files will be permanently deleted and won’t be stored in the Recycle Bin. Before you proceed, please do note that it will be difficult to recover or restore your files in case you needed them later. Here’s how you can delete files permanently on Windows 10.

Using Shift + Delete Key

Using Shift + Delete Key combination is the fastest way to delete your files permanently. Just select the files or folders that you would like to delete, and press on the Shift and Delete keys on your keyboard. Windows will then delete your files or folders directly without sending them to the Recycle Bin.

Using Recycle Bin Properties

Another way of deleting files permanently on Windows 10 is by using the Recycle Bin Properties. Right-click on the Recycle Bin icon on the desktop and select Properties. Under the Settings for Selected location, select the option “Don't move files to the Recycle Bin. Remove files immediately when deleted.” If you have more than one drive on your computer, you’ll need to repeat the same steps for each of the drives. Click on the Apply button to apply the changes and OK button to close this window. Now try to delete any files or folders on your computer and they will no longer appearing in the Recycle Bin folder.

You just learned how to delete files permanently on Windows 10. If you know any other useful methods we can use, please share with us in the comment section below.

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