How to use the Google Photos trash can on your phone
It's a free tool that's already installed and resolves most recent cases.
A feature that almost nobody uses
Google's Photos app maintains a designated area for all deleted content. The content remains there for sixty days before being permanently removed, and during this period, complete recovery is possible.
Many people give up before even looking at this folder and go straight to complicated solutions.
Where to find
In the bottom bar, tap Library. Among the device's albums and folders, you'll find the Trash option. When you open it, the list shows each item with the remaining time.
The order is from most recently deleted to oldest, which is helpful when you've deleted a lot of things at once.
Batch restore
Hold your finger on the first image to enter selection mode. Tap the remaining images and confirm the restoration all at once.
Everything reverts to the original album, with the date and resolution preserved.
1. Google Photos
It includes a 60-day recycle bin, automatic backup, and search by date and location.
Why it's worth it:
- 60-day recycle bin for everything you delete
- Automatic backup as soon as Wi-Fi connects
- Search by date, place, and even by what appears in the photo
2. Gallery
Shows folders that the default gallery sometimes hides, useful when the photo has disappeared from view but is still saved.
Why it's worth it:
- Shows the folders that other applications create
- Organizes the albums on the device itself
- It works offline, directly from memory
3. Dumpster
Create your own recycle bin and retain what you delete after the 60 days have passed.
Why it's worth it:
- Save what you accidentally delete
- Restores with one touch, no extra steps required
- No root access is required for it to work
How to do it by computer
In the browser, selection is faster, especially when there are many photos at once.
- Open the Google Photos website and sign in with the same account you use on your phone.
- Click on the side menu and select Trash Can.
- Mark the circle in the corner of each image.
- Click Restore and wait for the synchronization to finish.
Where else to look before giving up?
- The folder "Arquivo" disappears from the timeline.
- WhatsApp, Telegram, and Instagram folders.
- Albums created by the manufacturer themselves.
- Search by keyword, typing something that appears in the image.
- Another Google account already used on the same device.
How to avoid losing photos again
- Keep backup and sync always turned on.
- Check which account the app is logging into.
- Check the trash can before emptying it.
- Use a second cloud service for the irreplaceable.
- Copy the essentials to a computer or external hard drive.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many days do I have?
Sixty, counting from the exclusion.
Does it use up internet data to restore?
Only if the photo is stored in the cloud.
What if the trash can is empty?
Check the connected account. Each account has its own trash bin.
Does it work for video?
It works, for the same period.
Does it lose quality when restored?
No. The file reverts to its original state.