How to restore photos from the recycle bin
If you deleted the photos recently, you can fix it without installing anything.
First, check what you already have
The photo app that comes with your phone usually has a deleted items folder. It stores deleted items for a while and restores everything with a single tap.
You don't need to download anything, it doesn't take up extra space, and there's no risk of overwriting what you want to recover.
Step-by-step instructions for restoring via the trash can
The process takes only a few minutes and you can do everything from your cell phone.
Check which account you're logged into. Many phones have two Google accounts, and it's easy to end up looking in the wrong trash.
Each item shows how many days are left. Backed-up photos are kept for up to 60 days; unbacked photos may only be kept for 30 days.
Tap and hold the first photo and select the others. You can restore everything at once.
The images are returned to the album with their original date and the same quality.
In many models, the gallery that comes with the phone has its own trash bin, which stores deleted files for about 30 days.
How to do it by computer
If your phone is slow, you can get to the same place in just a few clicks using your browser.
Access the Google Photos website with the same account, click on Trash in the side menu, select the circle next to each image, and click Restore. Then, wait for synchronization.
If the trash can is empty
Before proceeding to analyze the memory, search in these places:
- The Archive folder, where photos that were accidentally archived end up.
- The folders for WhatsApp, Telegram, and Instagram.
- Searching for words by typing something that appears in the photo.
- Another Google account that you've already used on the same phone.
How to avoid losing photos again
- Always leave backup enabled.
- Take a look in the trash can before emptying it.
- Store the most important things in another cloud as well.
- Every now and then, make a copy on your computer or an external hard drive.
1. Google Photos
Google Play
Recycle bin with up to 60 days of storage, automatic backup, and date search. It's the first place to look if you recently deleted something.
It also searches by location or by what appears in the photo.
Download on Google Play
2. Files by Google
Google Play
It shows folders that the gallery sometimes hides, such as those for WhatsApp and other apps.
It helps you find images that you can't see, but that are still saved.
Download on Google Play
3. Dumpster
Google Play
Add a trash can to your phone so that the next deletion isn't permanent.
You can recover it with a single tap and you don't need root access.
Download on Google PlayFrequently Asked Questions
Does restoring consume data?
Only if the photo exists exclusively in the cloud. If it's still on the phone, then no.
How many days do I have?
Up to 60 photos if the photo was backed up. Those that weren't backed up can be limited to 30.
What if I have multiple accounts?
Each one has its own trash can. Switch accounts in the app and check them all.
Does it work without internet?
With what's still saved on the phone, yes.
Can I restore everything at once?
Yes. Tap and hold the first photo and select the others.
