Recover photos from the trash in minutes
If you deleted them just a few days ago, the recycle bin can bring the photos back in minutes.
The trash can that comes pre-installed on your phone
Before even thinking about downloading any tools, open the deleted items section of your device's Photos app. Images are stored there for a while before disappearing completely.
It's the safest method because it doesn't take up new space and there's no risk of overwriting what you want to recover.
Step-by-step instructions for restoring via the trash can
Restoring takes only a few minutes and is done directly on the phone.
With two Google accounts on your phone, it's easy to open the trash bin on one while the photos are on the other. Check this before proceeding.
Each photo shows how much time is left before permanent deletion. Backed-up photos are retained for up to 60 days; without backup, the retention period can be 30 days.
Holding down the first photo opens the selection. Then just select the others you want back.
The photos are returned to the same album, without losing quality or the date they were taken.
If backups have never been enabled, the Google Photos trash may not contain those images. In that case, open the trash folder in the gallery that came with your phone.
Restoring via browser
If your phone is slow or out of storage space, you can do the same thing on your computer.
Access Google Photos in your browser using the same account as your phone, open the Trash from the side menu, select each image, and click Restore. Then, wait for it to sync with your phone.
Didn't find anything in the trash can?
Before searching your memory, also look in these places:
- In the Archive folder, where photos may have ended up unintentionally.
- In the WhatsApp, Telegram, and Instagram folders.
- In the app's search function, type in something that appears in the photo.
- On another Google account already used on the device.
How to avoid losing photos again
- Enable backup and leave it on.
- Check the trash can before emptying it.
- Have a second cloud for the photos that matter.
- Copy the main files to a computer or external hard drive.
1. Google Photos
Google Play
It has a recycle bin that holds up to 60 days' worth of data, automatic backups, and a date-based search function. When the deletion is recent, this is usually the quickest way to proceed.
It allows you to search by date, location, or what appears in the image.
Download on Google Play
2. Files by Google
Google Play
Lists folders created by other applications, such as WhatsApp.
It's used to find photos that have been removed from the gallery but are still saved.
Download on Google Play
3. Dumpster
Google Play
Install a permanent trash can in the device so that the next deletion isn't permanent.
It restores the file with one tap and doesn't require root access.
Download on Google PlayFrequently Asked Questions
Will restoring use my data plan?
Only use it when the photo is stored in the cloud. If it's still on the device, don't use it.
How long does a photo stay in the trash?
Up to 60 days for photos with backup. Without backup, the timeframe can be 30 days.
I use more than one account. What should I do?
Each account has its own trash bin. Switch between them in the app and check them all.
Can it be done without internet?
Yes, for photos that are still on the phone.
Can I restore multiple photos together?
Yes, you can. Hold down the first one to open the selection and select the others.
