Freeing up space · Recycle Vault
How long does the Recycle Vault keep removed files?
Short answer: About 6 months, then items clear automatically. Each item shows how long it has left; restore it before then, or delete it sooner with Delete now.
About 6 months. After that they're cleared automatically, so the vault doesn't grow forever. Each item in the window shows how long it has left before it's cleared.
If you want something back for good, restore it before then. If you want space back sooner, you can permanently delete items yourself with Delete now. See restoring a removed file.