An integral element of the Windows 10 interface is the Recycle Bin folder. Recently deleted files get into it so that, if necessary, the user can restore them at any convenient time. At the same time, some PC owners complain about the appearance of a message that The Recycle Bin On C Is Corrupted in Windows 10 operating system. In this situation, it is impossible to access information for its further recovery.

Cause of error The Recycle Bin On C Is Corrupted
It is worth noting that the problem with access to the basket is much more serious than it might seem at first glance. The user not only cannot restore files, but also empty the folder, as well as move unnecessary data to the same trash. The interface completely refuses to work, and the cause is a failure in the OS.
It could have been caused by viruses, storage overflow, or errors caused by other factors. Be that as it may, the problem can be solved if all the requirements of the instructions are met.
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Methods for solving the problem with the basket
To troubleshoot, the user simply needs to reset the recycle bin. However, through a message that indicates a problem, it is far from always possible to clean up. Therefore, the owner of the computer will be forced to turn to the alternative options presented below.
Important. Resetting the Recycle Bin will delete all files located inside the temporary storage. If you are not ready to risk information that is important to you, try restarting your computer or checking your device for viruses.
using Command line to fix The Recycle Bin On C Is Corrupted
You can correct the error by clicking on the “OK” button in the window that appears. However, this feature does not always work. Therefore, as an alternative troubleshooting option, it is suggested to perform a cleanup using command line tools. In order not to make a mistake, follow the instructions:
- Right-click on the Start icon.
- Run “Command Prompt” as administrator.
- Enter the query “rd /s /q C:\$Recycle.bin”, if necessary, specifying the name of your system volume instead of the letter “C”.
- Press the “Enter” key.

Be careful when making a request through the CS. An error in at least one character can lead to the fact that the problems remain in place, and another folder with much more important information will be emptied instead of the trash. If desired, clearing temporary storage through the explorer is allowed. How to do this is described in the next paragraph.
By following the steps above, you will completely reset the Trash and delete its contents. Despite the loss of individual files, the problem will be solved. You will again be able to use the interface element in the usual way.
Repairing a corrupted Recycle Bin in Windows Explorer
If you were unable to empty the Recycle Bin through the command line, or the computer control itself seemed too complicated and confusing to you, you can use the more familiar Explorer to delete it. This interface is a file management tool. It is used for both viewing and cleaning information.

The Recycle Bin in this case is one of the computer’s folders. Like any other directory, it can be deleted. But in the settings of Windows 10, there is a function to automatically restore the storage after it is deleted. This is exactly what we need, because after getting rid of the folder, it will not disappear, but simply reset.
So, with the help of Explorer, you need to find and delete the “$ Recycle.bin” folder. Note that it is hidden by default. Therefore, in the file manager settings, you will have to allow the display of hidden elements:
- Launch Explorer.
- Open the system drive.
- Click LMB on the “View” tab.
- Check the box next to Hidden Items.
Now, to find the desired directory, just use the search bar of the explorer, indicating the name of the folder in it. You will immediately find the desired directory, and all that remains is to click on the delete button. After that, restart your computer, and the basket will work again.
Recover files from corrupted recycle bin
Alas, the process of resetting the recycle bin is accompanied by the deletion of all files stored in it. Thus, by fixing the error, you will lose recent photos and other information moved to temporary storage. It will not be possible to recover data using system tools, but you can turn to third-party software like the following programs:
- Victoria HDD;
- Recuva;
- Active Partition Recovery Pro.

All presented programs work on a similar principle. They run a deep scan of the internal drive, detecting thumbnails of deleted files, and then restore them. Keep in mind that a subscription is required to get full access to the functionality of the software, and therefore recovering lost data is a costly process, both in terms of time and in terms of finances.
How do I reinstall Recycle Bin?
If you’ve accidentally deleted the Recycle Bin from your Windows desktop, you can easily restore it. Here’s how:
- Open the Control Panel.
- Click on “Appearance and Personalization.”
- Click on “Folder Options.”
- Click on the “View” tab.
- Scroll down and check the box next to “Display Recycle Bin.”
- Click “OK.
Why do deleted files reappear?
When a user deletes a file from their computer, the file is not actually removed from the hard drive. The space that the file occupies on the hard drive is marked as available for new files. Until new files are written to the disk, the old files still exist on the disk. If a user later decides they want to restore a deleted file, they can do so by using undelete software or by restoring the contents of their recycle bin.
Does emptying Recycle Bin permanently delete?
It’s a common misconception that emptying the Recycle Bin deletes files permanently. In reality, emptied files can be easily restored by using recovery software. To delete files permanently, you need to use a secure delete tool or erase them using a disk wiping program.
How long do deleted files stay in Recycle Bin?
The answer to this question depends on the operating system that you are using and the settings that you have chosen for your Recycle Bin. In general, deleted files remain in the Recycle Bin until you empty it or until it reaches its maximum size.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are several ways to fix The Recycle Bin On C Is Corrupted in window 10. However, the most reliable way is to use the command cmd. I hope this article was helpful and that you are now able to fix you recycle bin.