Are you a Mac user who accidentally deleted files and can’t seem to find them in the trash bin? No need to worry, as retrieving deleted files from the trash bin on Mac is a simple task that can be done in a few minutes. However, it is important to retrieve them as soon as possible, as the longer you wait, the greater the chance that the deleted files will be overwritten and permanently lost. In this article, we will guide you through the different methods to retrieve deleted files from the trash on Mac.
We understand losing files can be a frustrating experience, and finding the solution can be time-consuming. However, our aim is to provide you with a clear and concise guide, that will help you understand the process step by step. You will learn how to retrieve files from the trash can not only on your Mac desktop but also on your laptop, MacBook or iMac. So, let us get started!
Video Tutorial:
What’s Needed
Before we dive into the different methods, there are a few things you need to know. Firstly, when you delete a file on Mac, it is not permanently deleted, but rather moved to the trash. This means that the files still exist and can be retrieved from the trash. Secondly, the amount of space in the trash bin is limited by default, so make sure to check the current size of the trash bin before starting to recover deleted files. Lastly, ensure that you have a good internet connection and enough battery life or a power supply to complete the task.
What Requires Your Focus?
Retrieving deleted files on Mac requires your utmost attention to avoid permanent data loss. Therefore, it is essential to avoid using the computer while performing the recovery task, as new data can overwrite the deleted file. Additionally, ensure that you have the correct path and file name when retrieving the file. Lastly, keep a backup of important files to avoid the hassle of recovering them every time.
Different Methods to Get Back Files from Trash on Mac
Method 1: Using Time Machine
Time Machine can be a lifesaver when it comes to retrieving deleted files from a Mac. It is an inbuilt Mac application that automatically takes backups of your files and folders. Follow the steps below to retrieve deleted files from the trash on Mac using Time Machine.
Steps:
1. Connect the Time Machine backup drive to the Mac.
2. Click on the Time Machine icon on the menu bar and select "Enter Time Machine."
3. Browse your files and press the "Restore" button to recover the deleted file from the trash bin.
4. Once the file is recovered, click on the arrow button to see the restored file in Finder.
Pros:
– Automatically backs up the files and folders.
– Users can retrieve files from a specific date and time.
Cons:
– Requires an external hard drive to store backups.
– Can slow down Mac performance during backup.
Method 2: Restoring From iCloud
iCloud can be used as a backup for your files and folders in case you accidentally delete them. Here is how you can retrieve deleted files using iCloud.
Steps:
1. Open iCloud.com and enter your Apple ID and password to log in.
2. Click on the "Account Settings" tab and select "Restore Files".
3. Select the files or folders you want to restore.
4. After selecting the files, click on the "Restore" button to retrieve the files back to Mac.
Pros:
– iCloud stores backups automatically without needing an external drive.
– Easy to retrieve files from iCloud.
Cons:
– Requires an internet connection to recover the files.
– Requires enough iCloud storage space to backup files.
Method 3: Using Third-Party Applications
If you cannot retrieve your deleted files using the above methods, you can try using third-party applications like Disk Drill, EaseUS Data Recovery Software, and Stellar Data Recovery. These apps are designed to help you recover deleted files from various locations, including the trash bin.
Steps:
1. Download and install the preferred data recovery software.
2. Open the software and select the option to recover data from the trash bin.
3. Run the software and wait for it to scan for deleted files in the trash bin.
4. Select the files and folders you want to recover and click on the "Restore" button to retrieve them from the trash bin.
Pros:
– Can recover files that cannot be retrieved using the in-built options.
– Support for different file systems.
Cons:
– Some software may require a paid subscription to use their full features.
– Coverage is limited to the files that are recoverable.
Why Can’t I Restore Files from Trash on Mac and How to Fix It
There are several reasons why you may not be able to restore files from the trash on Mac. Some common reasons include:
1. The trash bin was deleted:
If the trash bin has been deleted accidentally, then the files cannot be retrieved. To fix this, you can restore the trash bin by following the steps below:
Steps:
1. Click on the "Finder" icon on the Dock.
2. Select "Finder" from the top menu and click on "Preferences."
3. Click on the "Sidebar" tab and check the "Trash" option.
2. The file may have been permanently deleted from the trash:
If the file has been permanently deleted, then it cannot be retrieved using the trash bin. However, you can try using third-party applications like Disk Drill, EaseUS Data Recovery Software, and Stellar Data Recovery as mentioned above.
3. The trash bin was emptied:
If the trash bin has been emptied, then files cannot be retrieved from the trash bin. Therefore, it is important to avoid emptying the trash bin before ensuring you have all the files you need.
Implications and Recommendations
The importance of data backup cannot be overstated. For Mac users, it is advisable to enable Time Machine backups or use other cloud storage options like iCloud. Additionally, avoid deleting files without checking if they are important. Performing regular backups will save you the headache of permanently losing important data.
5 FAQs About How to Get Back Files From Trash on Mac
Q1: Can the files be recovered if the trash bin is emptied?
A: Files cannot be recovered from the trash bin if it has been emptied as they are permanently deleted. It is advisable to avoid emptying the trash bin before ensuring you have all the files you need.
Q2: Can I recover files from the trash bin that have been deleted a long time ago?
A: Yes, if the files have not been permanently deleted, you can still retrieve them even if they were deleted a long time ago. However, it is recommended to retrieve them as soon as possible before they are overwritten.
Q3: Can I recover files that have been deleted from external hard drives?
A: Yes, using third-party applications, you can recover deleted files from external hard drives.
Q4: How can I check the size limit of the trash bin?
A: Right-click on the trash icon and click on "Get Info." The size limit will be indicated next to the "Capacity" option.
Q5: Can I use the same method to retrieve deleted files on any Mac device?
A: Yes, the above methods can be used on any Mac device.
Final Words
Retrieving deleted files from the trash bin on Mac is a simple task that can be completed in a few minutes. As a Mac user, it is important to enable backups to avoid losing important data. We hope this article has provided you with insightful and practical ways to retrieve deleted files from the trash on Mac.