Changes that have been made

Microsoft has changed how OneDrive handles file deletions on local devices. Previously, when a file was deleted using the OneDrive sync client in File Explorer (Windows) or Finder (macOS), a copy would remain in the local Recycle Bin or Trash. This will no longer be the case.

Files deleted via the OneDrive sync client will be removed directly from the local device, and recovery will only be available through the OneDrive or SharePoint web recycle bin.

This change only affects files deleted through the OneDrive sync client, files removed via File Explorer (Windows) or Finder (macOS) where OneDrive is syncing in the background. Files deleted directly on your device outside of the OneDrive sync client will continue to go to your local Recycle Bin or Trash as normal.

Microsoft's reasons for this change

This change improves sync performance, especially for users with large file libraries. It also makes file recovery simpler and more predictable by ensuring there is a single, authoritative copy in the appropriate web recycle bin rather than potentially conflicting copies in multiple places.

Before and after the change

Before May 2026

  • OneDrive sync client deleted files also appeared in the local Recycle Bin / Trash
  • Files could be restored from either local or web recycle bin
  • Slower sync performance on large libraries
  • Two possible locations to check for a deleted file

From May 2026

  • OneDrive sync client deleted files removed directly from local disk and no local Recycle Bin entry
  • All OneDrive sync client file recovery must happen via the OneDrive or SharePoint web recycle bin
  • Faster, more efficient sync performance
  • One clear place to recover a file: the web recycle bin

If you can't find a file in your Recycle Bin

If you look in your local Recycle Bin or Trash and the file isn't there, check the OneDrive or SharePoint web recycle bin instead. It will be there if it was deleted from the OneDrive sync client.

Who this affects

This change affects all users of the OneDrive sync app on Windows and macOS who have files set to be available offline (locally synced). This covers most staff and students who save files to OneDrive or SharePoint document libraries.

Recovering a deleted file

Microsoft's own guides can help you restore your files:

93-day recovery window: Deleted files are kept in the OneDrive and SharePoint web recycle bins for up to 93 days. After that, they are permanently deleted and cannot be recovered. If in doubt, restore first and review later.

Further reading and training resources