How to Delete Files Directly Without Sending Them to Recycle Bin

Pick your method. There are two methods to directly deleting files in Windows.
- Method 1 will show you how to delete files by right clicking on them and selecting Delete, which normally sends files to the Recycle Bin.
- Method 2 allows you to send files to the Recycle Bin, but also allows you to permanently delete them when necessary.

1

Right click the Recycle Bin and select “Properties”.
2

In the Recycle Bin Properties box, choose the “Do not move the files to the Recycle Bin” option.
3

Click the “OK” button.
4
After you have completed this, the actions that will usually send files to the Recycle Bin will permanently delete them.
- You can reverse this by choosing the option “Custom Size” in Recycle Bin Properties. (Untick the option “Do not move the files to the Recycle Bin” in Windows XP).

1

Right click the file that you want to delete permanently.
2

Hold down the Shift key on your keyboard.
3

While holding the Shift key, click Delete or press the Delete/Del button on you keyboard.
4

Confirm the file deletion and the file will be deleted permanently.