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Deleted Files Keep Coming Back on Windows 10 [SOLVED]

If a file or folder reappears after deletion, check out what to do

4 min. read

Updated onOctober 4, 2023

updated onOctober 4, 2023

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Key notes

Deleting files is critical to clear storage space and make the computer run faster. But, several users reported that deleted files keep coming back in Windows 10.

The error, though not very common, can be encountered by some. But with a systematic and thorough approach, you can always fix it.

Read the following sections to find out what to do when a file reappears after deleting it.

Why do deleted files keep reappearing after deletion?

Here are some of the reasons why deleted files keep returning after deletion:

Also, here are a few cases when the deleted files may keep coming back in Windows 10:

What can I do if deleted files keep coming back on Windows 10?

Before we head to the slightly complex solutions, here are a few quick fixes that resolved things for many users:

In case the deleted folder or file still keeps coming back in Windows 10, try these methods next.

1. Disable Sync on OneDrive

Once done, the deleted files should not keep coming back in Windows 10. In case these still do, the problem likely lies elsewhere. So, try the next solution.

2. Fix a corrupted Recycle Bin

3. Change permissions

That’s it! After you have changed the ownership of the folder, the deleted files wouldn’t keep coming back in Windows 10. If that’s not the case, the next method will certainly help you.

4. Delete files using specialized software

Instead of deleting with the usual Windows options, try erasing files that reappear with third-party file deletion software.

Dedicated, file shredding software enables users todeleteselected files and folders more thoroughly. So, files might not reappear after they’re deleted with that software.

When Windows 10 deletes a file, it doesn’t actually remove it but only marks the space that was taken by the file as free. File shredding software gets rid of the file for good.

Easy File Shredder

Those are a few resolutions that will ensure that deleted files don’t keep coming back in Windows 10. Also, these work for shortcuts and can be used on the latest iteration, i.e., Windows 11, as well.

Also, find out how toboost the performance of your Windows 10 PCwith our quick and simple steps.

If you know any other possible solutions, share them in the comments section below.

Deleted Files Keep Coming Back on Windows 10 [SOLVED]#

Why do deleted files keep reappearing after deletion?#

What can I do if deleted files keep coming back on Windows 10?#

1. Disable Sync on OneDrive#

2. Fix a corrupted Recycle Bin#

3. Change permissions#

4. Delete files using specialized software#

Easy File Shredder#