The Missing Files
Windows 11 includes a storage management feature known as Storage Sense. When your hard drive begins to run low on space, Storage Sense can automatically step in and delete temporary files to keep the system running smoothly. However, by default, Storage Sense is often configured to also target the Recycle Bin. If left unchecked, it will automatically permanently delete files that have been sitting in the Recycle Bin for a certain period (usually 30 days). If you use the Recycle Bin as a temporary holding area for files you aren’t quite sure you want to delete yet, this automatic purge can result in the catastrophic loss of important data.
Disabling Storage Sense for the Recycle Bin
To ensure your deleted files stay in the Recycle Bin indefinitely until you explicitly choose to empty it, you must adjust the specific configuration within the Storage Sense settings.
Press the Windows key + I to open the Settings application. In the left-hand navigation sidebar, click on System. In the main panel, click on Storage. Under the “Storage management” section, you will see a toggle for “Storage Sense.” Click directly on the words Storage Sense (not just the toggle switch itself) to open its detailed configuration page. Scroll down to the section titled “Configure cleanup schedules.” Look for the dropdown menu labelled Delete files in my recycle bin if they have been there for over:. Click this dropdown and select Never. Storage Sense will continue to clean up hidden temp files, but it will no longer touch the contents of your Recycle Bin, leaving that task entirely up to you.