Clearing the Recent Items List is an easy way to remove traces of recently opened files and programs from your Windows PC. Windows 10 and 11 keep track of recent files in the Start Menu and Quick Access to help you quickly reopen documents, but this can also reveal sensitive activity, especially on shared computers.
What Is the Recent Items List?
The Recent Items list is a part of the Start Menu and File Explorer Quick Access that shows shortcuts to files, folders, and programs you’ve opened recently. It does not store the actual files, only links to them. Clearing it helps:
- Improve privacy on shared PCs
- Remove traces of sensitive files
- Declutter the Start Menu and Quick Access
- Fix issues with file history or search indexing
How to Clear Recent Items in Windows 10 and 11
Follow these steps to clear your recent files quickly:
- Open the Start Menu.
- Type Settings and press Enter.
- Go to Personalization > Start.
- Turn off the toggle for Show recently opened items in Start, Jump Lists, and File Explorer.
- Optionally, click Clear to remove the current list of recent items immediately.
Clearing Recent Files in File Explorer (Quick Access)
Windows 10 and 11 also show recently used files in Quick Access. Here’s how to clear them:
- Open File Explorer.
- Right-click Quick Access in the left sidebar and select Options.
- Under Privacy, click Clear to remove recent files and folders.
- Optionally, uncheck Show recently used files in Quick Access to prevent future items from appearing.
Optional: Disable Recent Items Completely
To stop Windows from tracking recent files:
- Open Settings > Personalization > Start.
- Turn off Show recently opened items in Start, Jump Lists, and File Explorer.
This disables logging of newly opened files going forward.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does clearing Recent Items delete my files?
No. It only removes shortcuts in Start Menu, Quick Access, and Jump Lists. Your actual files stay intact.
Will recent items reappear after clearing?
Yes, if the feature is still enabled. Windows automatically adds new items unless you disable it.
Can I clear recent items automatically?
Yes. In Windows 10/11, you can turn off recent items in Settings, or use Group Policy/registry tweaks for corporate environments.
Why clear recent items?
Privacy, decluttering, and fixing occasional Start Menu or Quick Access glitches.
Final Notes
Clearing your Recent Items in Windows 10 or 11 is quick, safe, and effective. Whether you clear it occasionally or disable it completely, it helps protect privacy and keeps your Start Menu and File Explorer clean.