Deleting files on Xiaomi Redmi 8 Pro often seems like a final thing — but only until you find that they still take up space in the hidden bin. This MIUI feature, inherited from the standard Android file manager, saves you from accidental deletion, but can be a headache if you don’t know how to manage it. Unlike iOS or Windows, where the basket is always in sight, on Xiaomi it is hidden in the depths of the interface, and cleaning it requires knowing the nuances of MIUI 12/13/14 firmware.
The Redmi 8 Pro features a hybrid file system where some of the junk is stored not only in the MIUI Recycle Bin, but also in the cache of applications like Gallery or Downloads. If you notice that no space is added after you delete photos or documents, the problem is the uncleaned Recycle Bin. In this article, we will examine all the ways from standard to hidden, including recovering accidentally erased files and solving the Recycle Bin Error.
⚠️ Note: Redmi 8 Pro with custom firmware (e.g. Pixel Experience or LineageOS) MIUI In this case, use third-party file managers like Solid Explorer or FX File Manager, where the cart is manually configured.
1.Where is the cart on Xiaomi Redmi 8 Pro?
The Recycle Bin on the Redmi 8 Pro does not have a separate desktop shortcut — it depends on the type of files deleted. MIUI divides “junk” into three categories:
- 📁 File manager MIUI: here are the documents, APK, archives and other files deleted through the standard Files application.
- 📷 Gallery: a separate basket for photos and videos removed through the Gallery app or Google Photos.
- 🗑️ App cache: temporary files that some programs (such as WhatsApp or Telegram) put in their shopping cart before final deletion.
To open the main MIUI basket:
- Launch the Files app (a folder icon with a blue background).
- In the bottom menu, tap on Categories → scroll down to the Cart section.
- Click on the basket icon – a list of files marked for removal will open.
⚠️ Note: If you do not see the Recycle Bin section in the Files app, check the settings: Files → ⚙️ Settings → Show the basket. Some versions. MIUI This parameter is off by default.
2. Standard method of cleaning the basket through MIUI
The easiest method is to use the built-in MIUI tools, which is suitable for most users and does not require the installation of additional programs.
- Open the Files app.
- Go to the Recycle Bin section (see previous section).
- In the upper right corner, click on Control (three-dot icon).
- Choose Clean the cart and confirm the action.
To clean the Gallery basket:
- Launch the Gallery app.
- Slip on the Albums → scroll down to the Cart.
- Press Control. → Clear it all up.
🔹 Nuance: On Redmi 8 Pro with MIUI Gallery Cart 14 can sync with Google Photos. If you deleted a photo through Google service, clear the cart there: Google Photos → Library → Basket.
☑️ Preparation for cleaning the basket
3.Why the basket isn't being cleaned - and how to fix it
Sometimes users are faced with the fact that after clicking Clean the Recycle Bin, the files remain in place and the memory is not released.
| Problem. | Reason. | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| The "Clean" button is inactive. | Files blocked by MIUI or antivirus | Go to Settings → Applications → Permissions → Files and remove locks |
| The basket is empty, but memory is busy. | Files are stored in the app cache | Clean the cache through Settings → Storage → Cleanup |
| "Failure to delete" error | A damaged file system | Restart your phone or perform a Storage Check in Settings → Memory |
| Recycle Bin automatically restores files | Synchronization with the cloud is enabled | Turn off autosynchronization in Settings → Accounts → Mi Cloud |
🔹 Critical case: If the bin doesn't clear even after you reboot, try to delete files one at a time. Sometimes one "broken" file blocks the entire bin from being cleaned.
What if the tablet disappeared from the menu?
4. Alternative methods of cleaning the basket
If the standard method doesn’t work, use one of these options:
- 📱 Through Storage Settings: Go to Settings → Memory. Put it on the Cleanup. Select the Basket and press Clear.
- 🔧 With help. ADB (For advanced: Connect your phone to your PC, turn on Debugging USB and execute the command: adb shell pm clear com.android.documentsui This will reset the file manager settings, including the basket.
- 🌐 Through Google Files: Install Files by Google from Play Market.It has its own shopping cart, but can also see files MIUI. Go to the Cleanup. → Basket and delete everything.