# How to Delete Files from Google Drive: A Complete Guide In this article - [How to Delete Files from Google Drive on a Computer](#how-to-delete-files-from-google-drive-on-a-computer) - [How to Delete Files from Google Drive on Phone](#how-to-delete-files-from-google-drive-on-phone) - [How to Permanently Delete Files from Google Drive](#how-to-permanently-delete-files-from-google-drive) - [Best Alternative to Google Drive For Privacy](#best-alternative-to-google-drive-for-privacy) In this article- [How to Delete Files from Google Drive on a Computer](#how-to-delete-files-from-google-drive-on-a-computer) - [How to Delete Files from Google Drive on Phone](#how-to-delete-files-from-google-drive-on-phone) - [How to Permanently Delete Files from Google Drive](#how-to-permanently-delete-files-from-google-drive) - [Best Alternative to Google Drive For Privacy](#best-alternative-to-google-drive-for-privacy) [Blog](/blog/)/How to Delete Files from Google Drive: A Complete Guide Cloud Storage # A Step-by-Step on How to Delete Files from Google Drive October 9, 20264 min readKnowing how to delete files from Google Drive not only makes room for more storage but also enhances organization as a whole. You get rid of all the unwanted files and can prioritise your folders, without getting confused by all the clutter. Google Drive lets you delete unwanted content from your computer or mobile device in a few simple steps.In this guide, we will explore how to delete files from Google Drive on a computer and phone. Since Google Drive moves deleted files to the 'Trash' section for up to 30 days, we will show you how to remove files from there as well. Additionally, if you are are someone who wants a more [secure alternative to Google Drive](/alternatives/google-drive/) that doesn't scan your files, consider checking out DragBin. ## How to Delete Files from Google Drive on a Computer If you want to remove unwanted documents, photos, or other files, Google Drive lets you delete them directly from your browser. Follow these steps to learn how to delete files from Google Drive on a computer and move them to Trash. Step 1 - Open Google Drive and go to the 'My Drive' section Step 2- Locate the file you want to deleteStep 3 - Right click on the file and folder. Then select 'Move to Trash'Step 4 - To select multiple files, simply hold CTRL on Windows or Command on Mac while selecting individual files. Step 5 - Once done, the folder has now been moved to trash. ## How to Delete Files from Google Drive on Phone You can delete unwanted files directly from the Google Drive app on your Android phone or iPhone. The process is similar on both devices, although some menu labels may vary slightly depending on your app version. Follow these steps to remove files and free up space in your Google Drive account. Step 1 - Open the Google Drive app or sign in via the browser Step 2 - Browse which files or folders you want to delete Step 3 - Tap the three-dot menu next to the file you want to remove. Step 4 - Select Remove to move the file to Trash. ## How to Permanently Delete Files from Google Drive When you delete a file from Google Drive on your computer or Android phone, it moves to the Trash folder rather than disappearing permanently. These files continue to occupy your Google storage until they are permanently deleted. If you want to free up space or remove sensitive documents, here is how you can delete files forever from Google Drive. Step 1 - Go to the 'Trash' section on Google Drive. On a computer, you can find it in the left sidebar. On the mobile app, open the navigation menu and select Trash or Bin. Step 2 - On a computer, tap on the menu option and go to 'Delete forever'On a mobile device, go to the Trash or Bin folder. Select the file and then tap on 'Delete Forever' Step 3 - Confirm the deletion and the file will be permanently removed from your Google Drive. Step 4 - You can alternatively select 'Empty trash' on your computer if you want to permanently delete multiple files from Google Drive. ## Best Alternative to Google Drive For Privacy Since Google Drive does not offer true [end-to-end encryption](/end-to-end-encryption/) and [scans your files](/blog/does-google-drive-scan-your-files/), it is best to reconsider your cloud storage options. Even though it protects your files from external threats, it holds your encryption keys and stores and manages it on their servers. This means that they can technically decrypt your files if needed. On top of that, your files are scanned using automated systems to detect any malware or prohibited content. This approach does not guarantee complete file privacy and does not situate Google Drive as a [zero knowledge cloud storage](/blog/zero-knowledge-cloud-storage/). In contrast, DragBin uses [client side](/client-side-encryption/), end-to-end encryption and can never see your files, folders, passwords, timestamp or content. As one of the best alternatives to Google Drive, DragBin offers :- Unlimited sharing, unlimited bandwidth and unlimited fiel size upload within the plan - [Advanced link management](/features/secure-file-sharing/) with password protection, one-time watch, expiration links, view and download limit, etc - [Secure folder sharing](/blog/folder-sharing/), detailed analytics and 4k/8k video preview in browser On top of this, we also offer [post quantum encryption](/post-quantum-encryption/) to protect your files from active "[Harvest Now, Decrypt Later](/harvest-now-decrypt-later/)" threats. For specific workflows, [DragBin for Creators](/creators/) and [DragBin for Business](/business/) offer consolidated workspaces. Your files are completely private and you can learn more about our security practices in the [detailed whitepaper](/whitepaper/).[Try DragBin Free](https://app.dragbin.com/signup) Share this article Share on FacebookShare on TwitterShare on LinkedInShare via EmailCopy link secure by design ## Experience end-to-end encryption with DragBin Protect your sensitive files with zero-knowledge, post-quantum encryption. Try DragBin and truly own your data. [Start free](https://app.dragbin.com/signup) Newsletter ## Stay updated on security trends The latest privacy and security insights, delivered to your inbox. Subscribe Keep reading ## Related articles [June 11, 2026-9 min read ### Does Google Drive Scan Your Files? What Google Can See and Report Does Google Drive scan your files? Learn what Google can see, why files are scanned, what gets reported and whether your data is truly private or not. Read article](/blog/does-google-drive-scan-your-files/)[June 22, 2026-10 min read ### What Is Cloud Storage? Everything You Need to Know in 2026 What is cloud storage explained for beginners from scratch. Learn how cloud storage works, its benefits, security features, pricing and use cases in 2026. Read article](/blog/what-is-cloud-storage/)[October 2, 2026-4 min read ### How To Disable OneDrive Without Losing Your Files Learn how to disable OneDrive without losing your files. Follow simple steps to stop syncing, unlink your account, or remove OneDrive from Windows. Read article](/blog/how-to-disable-onedrive/) --- Canonical: https://www.dragbin.com/blog/how-to-delete-files-from-google-drive