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How to delete a folder in Dropbox temporarily or permanently using a mobile device or computer

It's easy to delete a folder from Dropbox via your computer or mobile device.

FILE PHOTO: The Dropbox app logo seen on a mobile phone in this illustration photo October 16, 2017.   REUTERS/Thomas White/Illustration
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Whether you're looking up to free up space or want to organize and clean up digital clutter, there are plenty of reasons why you might want to delete a folder from your Dropbox account.

While it is an easy process, there are two distinct ways to delete a folder from Dropbox:

  • Delete: When you delete a file or folder, Dropbox initiates a recovery window period. If you have Dropbox Basic or Plus, you can recover deleted files up to 30 days. Dropbox Professional and Business accounts are able to recover deleted files for 180 days. After the recovery window is over, files are permanently deleted within 60 days.
  • Permanently Delete: You can skip the recovery window by choosing to permanently delete the folder, which immediately removes it from your account with no option for recovery. This is the option you should choose if you're deleting a folder to free up space. If you want to permanently delete a file, you'll need to do it through the Dropbox website.
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Below, a quick guide to deleting a folder in Dropbox from your desktop or mobile device.

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1. Go to the Dropbox homepage and log in.

2. Click "Files" from the left-side options menu.

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3. Navigate your cursor to the folder you want to delete, and click the ellipsis icon, or three dots, to its right.

4. A drop-down menu will appear. Scroll toward the bottom and select "Delete."

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5. You'll be asked if you're sure. Click "Delete" again to confirm. The folder and the entirety of its contents will be removed from your Dropbox.

Remember: This option does not permanently delete the folder. In fact, the folder will be available for recovery for a limited time, based on your account type. To recover the folder, navigate to the "Deleted Files" page from the left-side options menu.

1. Download the Dropbox mobile app from the App Store or Google Play Store if you haven't.

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2. From your home screen, you'll see recently accessed items. Tap the folder you want to delete if it appears, or tap "Files" from the bottom options dock.

3. Navigate to the folder you want to delete.

4. Open the folder you want to delete. Click the ellipsis icon, or three dots, in the top right corner, and select "Delete," at the bottom.

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5. Select "Delete" again to confirm.

1. While in the "Files" menu, select "Deleted files" from the left-side menu.

2. Click on the checkbox of the folder you want to delete.

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3. On the right, select the option "Permanently Delete."

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