How to Empty Recent Files in Windows 10
In Windows 10, the Recent Files feature allows users to quickly access their most recently opened documents, apps, and websites. However, over time, this feature can become cluttered with outdated files, leading to unnecessary clutter and potential privacy concerns. If you’re looking to clear out your recent files list in Windows 10, here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it.
Step 1: Open the File Explorer
To begin, open the File Explorer by clicking on the folder icon on the taskbar or pressing the Windows key + E.
Step 2: Navigate to the Recent Files Folder
In the File Explorer, click on the “Quick Access” section on the left-hand side. Within this section, you should see a folder labeled “Recent.” Click on this folder to view the list of recently opened files.
Step 3: Clear the Recent Files List
Once you are in the Recent Files folder, you can clear the list by clicking on the “Clear” button at the top of the window. This will remove all items from the list, ensuring that your recent files are empty.
Step 4: Disable the Recent Files Feature
If you want to prevent the Recent Files feature from storing any files in the future, you can disable it entirely. To do this, right-click on the “Recent” folder in the Quick Access section and select “Properties.” In the Properties window, go to the “General” tab and uncheck the “Store and display recently used files in the File Explorer” option. Click “Apply” and then “OK” to save the changes.
Step 5: Clear the Recent Files from the Start Menu
The Recent Files feature is also displayed in the Start Menu. To clear the list from there, right-click on the Start button and select “Settings.” In the Settings window, go to “Personalization” and then “Start.” Under the “Start” section, click on “Manage Start layout.” Here, you can see a list of recently opened apps and files. To remove them, click on the “Clear” button.
By following these steps, you can easily empty recent files in Windows 10 and maintain a clutter-free system. Additionally, disabling the Recent Files feature can help protect your privacy and keep your system organized.
