How to create an extra trash can on Android
A dedicated trash can contains what you delete and prevents future headaches.
What does she do
The app runs in the background and intercepts deletions from the device. Instead of the file disappearing, it goes to a protected folder and stays there for the time period you define.
This applies to photos, videos, audio files, and documents. Recovering an item involves opening the trash, finding the item, and confirming its recovery.
How to configure
Upon first opening the application, it requests permission to access storage. Without this permission, it's impossible to monitor deletions, so this authorization is mandatory.
Next, choose how long the items will be stored. Longer storage periods offer more protection but also take up more space. A period between seven and thirty days usually balances things out well.
Local protection is not a replacement for the cloud
The trash can solves accidental deletion, but it doesn't solve the problem of loss, theft, or malfunction of the device. In those cases, it disappears along with the device.
The right combination is local retention for day-to-day data and automatic uploading to the cloud for what cannot be lost.
1. Dumpster
Creates a recycle bin on the device and retains all deleted items for the configured period. Restoring takes two taps.
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
2. Google Photos
It takes care of the cloud aspect: it automatically sends each new photo and even maintains its own 60-day recycle bin.
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
3. Gallery
Keep your albums organized and take up little space, which helps maintain the clearance your trash can needs to function properly.
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
First step-by-step setup
The extra trash can only protects what is deleted after it's installed, so it's worth setting it up right away.
- Install the app and open it to the first welcome screen.
- Grant permission to access the photos and files.
- Choose which types of files should be saved.
- Define how many days the content is retained before disappearing.
- Leave the app running in the background, without aggressively optimizing battery usage.
When the extra trash can doesn't help
It covers up everyday mistakes, but there are situations where there's nothing that can be fixed.
- Photos deleted before you installed the app.
- Formatting the device or performing a factory reset.
- Memory card removed and erased on another device.
- Files deleted directly from an app that bypass the gallery.
How to avoid losing photos again
- Use the extra trash can along with cloud backup.
- Check the retention period and extend it if possible.
- Do not disable the app in the battery settings.
- Review the contents before emptying.
- Keep irreplaceable information on your computer as well.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the trash bin work when the app is closed?
It works. It runs in the background, which is why it asks for storage permission.
Does it take up a lot of space?
It occupies the same space as the retained files. A shorter timeframe means less storage space is in use.
Can we choose what it protects?
Yes, it's possible to limit it to photos and videos and leave out the other types.
Is it suitable for what I deleted before installing?
No. It only protects from the moment it is activated.
Does it replace the backup?
No. If the phone breaks or gets stolen, the trash can goes with it. Use both.