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iPad's Hidden Trash: Where Deleted Files Actually Live

iPads don't have one trash folder — they have several scattered across different apps. This guide maps every location: Files app Recently Deleted, Photos app Recently Deleted, iCloud Drive, Notes Deleted Notes, and app-specific trash in supported apps. Each has a different retention period and different restore procedure.

Key Topics Covered

  • Files app Recently Deleted — where it is and how long files stay
  • Photos Recently Deleted — 30 day window on iPad
  • iCloud Drive deleted files via iCloud.com
  • Notes app Recently Deleted folder
  • App-specific trash: Pages, Numbers, Keynote
  • What has no trash and is immediately gone on iPad