Google Photos Trash: Step-by-step guide to restoring it
If the photo was deleted a few weeks ago, it may be waiting in the Google Photos trash.
How the trash can works
When you delete a photo in Google Photos, it's not destroyed instantly. It goes to the trash and stays there for 60 days if you had a backup, or for about 30 days if it was only on your phone.
Within that timeframe, the photo is returned to the library in its original condition, with the same date, location, and resolution.
It's the fastest way of all. Google Photos comes pre-installed on almost every Android device, so there's no need to download anything.
Step-by-step instructions on your cell phone
The process takes about two minutes.
Open Google Photos and tap your profile picture at the top of the screen. If you have more than one account, choose the one that backed up the lost photos.
In the bottom bar, tap Collections (or Library in older versions) and then Trash. Each item shows how many days are left until permanent deletion.
Hold your finger on a thumbnail until the marker appears. Then tap on the other photos, one by one.
Confirm if the app asks. The photos will return to the main library and reappear in the gallery.
Log in to photos.google.com with the same account, click on Trash in the left menu, select the photos by circling them in the corner, and click Restore.
If the photo is not in the trash can
First, check if it wasn't simply archived. The Archive folder, in Collections, stores images that have disappeared from the main screen without being deleted.
If backup was turned off and the recycle bin is empty, the next step is to search directly in the phone's memory using a recovery app. This takes longer and the results vary.
After restoring
Some details help prevent surprises:
- The photo will return to the library, but not to the albums. Add it again wherever you want.
- Restored photos will take up space in your account again. If your storage is full, free up space first.
- Emptying the trash can erases everything at once, even before the deadline.
- Leave automatic backup enabled so that the next deletion can also be restored.
1. Google Photos
Google Play
It combines recycle bin, backup, and keyword search. For recent deletions, it usually resolves the issue in just a few taps.
It keeps photos backed up for up to 60 days after they are deleted.
Download on Google Play
2. Files by Google
Google Play
Shows the WhatsApp, downloads, and screenshots folders. It's helpful when a photo has disappeared from the gallery but is still saved in another folder.
Download on Google Play
3. Dumpster
Google Play
After recovering, leave an extra trash can active on your phone for future deletions.
It works without root access.
Download on Google PlayFrequently Asked Questions
How long does a photo stay in the trash?
Up to 60 days when there was a backup. Photos that were only on the device last about 30 days.
Can I restore many photos at once?
Yes, you can. After selecting the first one, tap on the others and restore them all together.
Does the quality change?
No. The photo will be restored to its original resolution and data.
Do I need internet?
Only if the photo is stored exclusively in the cloud. If it's still on your phone, it can be restored offline.
Can someone else with access to the account empty the trash?
Yes, you can. That's why you should only keep your account logged in on trusted devices.
