Removing icons from the desktop on Windows 11 is a simple task that can help declutter your workspace and make finding important files easier. To remove icons, you can either delete them, hide them, or move them to another location. Each method is straightforward and can be done in just a few clicks through the desktop settings or File Explorer. Follow the steps below to tidy up your desktop space effectively.
How to Remove Icons from Desktop Windows 11
Removing icons from your Windows 11 desktop can make your screen look cleaner and help you find things faster. Here’s a quick guide to getting rid of those pesky icons.
Step 1: Right-Click on the Desktop
Simply right-click anywhere on your desktop where there aren’t any icons. This will open a context menu with various options.
When you right-click, you’ll see options like View, Sort by, and Refresh. You want to focus on the View option for this task.
Step 2: Select “View”
Hover over the “View” option to reveal a submenu.
The submenu under View gives you several choices, including changing icon size or hiding them altogether.
Step 3: Click “Show Desktop Icons”
Uncheck “Show desktop icons” in the submenu to hide all icons.
This action will make all icons disappear from the desktop, but don’t worry—they aren’t deleted. They remain accessible through File Explorer.
Step 4: Delete Unwanted Icons
If you want to permanently remove an icon, simply select it, right-click, then choose “Delete.”
Make sure you only delete shortcuts or files you no longer need. Deleted icons go to the Recycle Bin, where you can restore them if needed.
Step 5: Move Icons to a Folder
Drag and drop icons into a folder if you’d rather keep them but off the main desktop.
Creating a folder reduces clutter while keeping your files organized and easily accessible.
After completing these steps, your desktop should look cleaner and more organized. Hidden icons will free up visual space, making it easier to focus on your tasks. You can always access or restore icons through the File Explorer or Recycle Bin if needed.
Tips for Removing Icons from Desktop Windows 11
- Consider using the “Auto Arrange Icons” feature under the View menu to keep things tidy.
- Regularly clean up your desktop by reviewing and removing unnecessary shortcuts.
- Use the “Pin to Start” feature for quick access to frequently used apps without cluttering the desktop.
- Create shortcuts only for essential programs and files to minimize clutter.
- Regularly back up important files you frequently access from the desktop to avoid accidental deletion.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get back icons after hiding them?
Yes, you can easily restore hidden icons by right-clicking on the desktop, going to “View,” and checking “Show desktop icons.”
Will deleting icons remove the software?
No, deleting a shortcut icon does not uninstall or affect the actual software. It just removes the shortcut from your desktop.
How do I restore a deleted icon?
If you accidentally delete an icon, check the Recycle Bin. You can restore it by right-clicking on it and selecting “Restore.”
Can I hide only some icons?
To hide specific icons, you’ll need to move them to a folder or delete them since the “Show desktop icons” feature hides all or none.
Are hidden icons still accessible?
Yes, hidden icons are still accessible through the File Explorer, where you can navigate to the Desktop folder.
Summary
- Right-click on the desktop.
- Select the “View” submenu.
- Uncheck “Show Desktop Icons.”
- Right-click and delete unwanted icons.
- Move icons to a folder.
Conclusion
Removing icons from your desktop in Windows 11 is a quick and easy way to declutter your digital workspace. Whether you’re looking to streamline your view for productivity or simply prefer a minimalist aesthetic, the steps outlined above will help you achieve a cleaner screen in no time.
Remember, hidden icons are just a click away in File Explorer, so you don’t have to worry about losing any important files. Regularly reviewing and managing your desktop can improve your computer’s performance and make finding what you need a breeze.
If you’re someone who frequently juggles multiple projects, you might find it helpful to create folders for different tasks and move relevant icons into those folders. This way, your desktop remains neat, and you still have everything you need at your fingertips.
So why not take a few minutes to tidy up your workspace today? You’ll be surprised at how a simple change can make your computer feel brand new. If you’re hungry for more tips to optimize your Windows 11 experience, consider exploring topics like customizing the taskbar or setting up virtual desktops.
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.