Tired of minimizing every window just to reach the Recycle Bin? MiniBin, a tiny free utility by e-sushi, puts the bin in the system tray, where a double-click opens or empties it and the icon shows how full it is.
Recycle Bin status in the tray
The tray icon changes through five fill levels, from empty to full, so you can tell at a glance how much is waiting to be deleted.
This keeps the bin within reach when other windows cover the desktop. It also gives you a quick way to check whether it contains anything before deciding to open it or clear it.
Viewing and emptying the bin
Use the tray icon to access the Recycle Bin’s contents or empty it. These actions keep routine bin management close at hand, including when you have several applications open or are working in a full-screen window.
- Open the bin from the system tray to view its contents.
- Empty the bin through the tray icon when you are ready to clear deleted files.
MiniBin settings
Choose whether a double-click opens or empties the bin, and swap in your own icon themes. Menu text comes from an editable language file, so it can be translated. MiniBin is portable and runs without installation.
Pros
- Shows an empty or full status in the system tray
- Provides access to the Recycle Bin from its tray icon
- Lets you view bin contents or empty the bin from the icon
- Portable, with custom icon themes
Cons
- Retired by its developer, no further updates
- Tray icon may be hidden in the Windows 11 overflow menu
Can MiniBin empty the Recycle Bin from the system tray?
Yes. Double-click the tray icon or use its menu to empty or open the bin.
Can I change the tray icons?
Yes. MiniBin supports icon themes, and you can make your own.
Is MiniBin still updated?
No. The developer has retired it, but the final version still works as a small portable tool.