Windows 7: Recycle Bin - Permanently Delete Items Automatically

   Information

This wiil show you how to set the Windows 7 Recycle Bin to permanently delete files automatically instead to save space.

   Note

Removable drives do not use or have a Recycyle Bin. Files deleted from removable drives are permanently deleted instead.

You could also right click on a file, press and hold Shift, and click on Delete to permanently delete the file.

   Warning

If you set this option for bypassing sending files to the recycle bin, you will no longer have the Disk Cleanup option from that drive's properties window, as posted here: post

1. Right click on the Recycle Bin on the desktop and select Properties

2. Select a listed HDD (ex: Local Disk (C: )) under the Recycle Bin Location column that you would like to set step 3 or 4 below for.

3. To Set the Recycle Bin to Permanently Delete Files

A) Select (dot) Don't move files to the recycle bin..., and click on Apply.

4. To Set the Recycle Bin to Not Permanently Delete Files
NOTE: This is the default setting.

A) Select Custom size, and click on Apply.

5. Repeat steps 2-4 above for any other listed HDD that you would like to set this for.

6. when finished, click on OK. (see screenshot below step 2)

   Tip

If you like, you can also disable the confirmation dialog if you wish