How to Find Trash on an Android

This article teaches you how Android phones and operating systems deal with your trash and files that you deleted and where to find files that aren't permanently deleted. 

Where Is the Trash Can on My Android?

Technically, Android OS doesn't have a trash can. Unlike your PC or Mac, there's no single trash can where deleted files are stored temporarily. Instead, Android apps have separate trash cans, depending on their design. Typically, file management apps such as Dropbox and Google Photos, and File Manager all follow similar formats of where to look for the trash bin. 

How Do I Find the Trash App?

As mentioned, Android OS doesn't have one trash app, but it does include numerous apps that contain their form of a trash can. One of the critical places where you may want to undelete files is Google Photos. Here's where to look in Google Photos. 

1. On your Android phone, tap Photos.

   It might say Google Photos. 

2. Tap Library.

3. Tap Trash.

   The icon in this screenshot says Bin, due to regional differences.

4. Your deleted photos are here. Tap on one to restore it, or tap the ellipsis to Empty the trash can.

How to Find Trash in File Manager

Most Android phones also have a File Manager app installed, or you can choose to download a third-party app from the Google Play Store. Here's where to find your trash in File Manager.

1. On your Android phone, tap File Manager.

2. Tap Recently Deleted.

3. Tap Delete All to delete everything or tap on each file to restore it.

Where Is the Trash Folder on My Samsung Phone? 

On Samsung phones, like other Androids, you can restore files and photos for up to 30 days after you've deleted them. 

Finding Deleted Photos on Samsung

Here's where to look for the trash can for your photos on a Samsung phone.

1. Tap Gallery.

2. Tap the ellipsis.

3. Tap Recycle Bin.

Finding Deleted Files on Samsung

For other files, the location is slightly different. Here's what to do.

1. Tap My Files. 

2. Tap the ellipsis.

3. Tap Recycle Bin.

4. Tap Restore on the file to restore it to its original location. 

Can I Restore Permanently Deleted Files?

Generally, no. Some third-party apps claim they can recover deleted files, but these rarely work. Such methods definitely shouldn't be relied upon for any critical files. Only delete files from your phone or trash bin if you're sure you don't need it to avoid this risk.