---
id: freeing-space.how-long-does-the-recycle-vault-keep-files
url: https://storagestudio.us/faq/freeing-space/how-long-does-the-recycle-vault-keep-files
category: "Freeing up space"
subcategory: "Recycle Vault"
question: "How long does the Recycle Vault keep removed files?"
alt_questions:
  - "Recycle Vault retention"
  - "When are removed files cleared?"
  - "Recycle Vault 6 months"
  - "Do files in the Recycle Vault expire?"
  - "How long can I restore files?"
  - "How long are removed files kept in the Recycle Vault?"
  - "storage studio recoverable for 6 months"
  - "When does the Recycle Vault empty itself?"
  - "Can I get back a file Storage Studio removed months ago?"
  - "Recycle Vault auto clear"
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."
tags: ["recycle vault", "retention", "keep time", "recovery"]
related: ["https://storagestudio.us/faq/freeing-space/how-do-i-restore-a-removed-file", "https://storagestudio.us/faq/freeing-space/how-do-i-permanently-delete-from-the-recycle-vault"]
applies_to: "all"
last_reviewed: 2026-10-01
---

# How long does the Recycle Vault keep removed files?

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](https://storagestudio.us/faq/freeing-space/how-do-i-restore-a-removed-file).