OneDrive File Issues

Fix OneDrive Android Cannot Upload to Subfolders or Delete Files

Amos Gikunda Oct 12, 2026 870 views

Question details

The user is unable to upload files to specific subfolders or delete existing files and folders within the Android OneDrive application.

How to Fix OneDrive Android Cannot Upload to Subfolders or Delete Files

Product: OneDrive for Android
Device & OS: Android
Scenario: Attempting to organize cloud storage by uploading new documents into subfolders and removing unwanted files via the mobile app.
Observed behavior: The app restricts uploads exclusively to the root folder. Any attempts to add files to subfolders or delete items fail, although viewing and downloading files still work normally.

Before you start

Ensure you know your Microsoft account login credentials, as clearing the app data will log you out. Connect your device to a stable Wi-Fi network to quickly resync your folder structure after the reset.

Solution 1Recommended

Clear OneDrive App Data and Verify Permissions

Resetting the app's local storage data eliminates corrupted cache files that interfere with folder navigation and file deletion.

Simply clearing the cache is often not enough to resolve deep-seated synchronization bugs. Clearing the full app data forces OneDrive to rebuild its local database, restoring proper upload and delete functionalities.

Open Device Settings

Navigate to your Android device's 'Settings' app and select 'Apps' or 'App Management' to view all installed applications.

Locate the OneDrive App

Scroll through your application list and tap on 'OneDrive' to open its specific app info page.

Clear App Storage Data

Tap on 'Storage' or 'Storage & cache', then select the 'Clear data' or 'Clear storage' option. Confirm the prompt to proceed.

Check App Permissions

Return to the OneDrive app info page, select 'Permissions', and ensure that access to 'Files and media' or 'Storage' is fully allowed.

Sign In and Test

Launch the OneDrive app, sign back into your Microsoft account, and try uploading a test file to a subfolder to confirm the issue is resolved.

Clear OneDrive App Data and Verify Permissions

Data Safety Assured: Clearing app data only removes temporary local files and settings from your phone. It does not delete any files safely stored in your OneDrive cloud account.

Free Microsoft Office alternative

Manage and Edit Your Cloud Files Seamlessly with WPS Office

If you are frustrated by standalone cloud app glitches, try WPS Office. It provides an all-in-one, lightweight environment for creating, editing, and managing your documents, with robust built-in support for multiple cloud storage services including OneDrive.

1. Download WPS Office: Install WPS Office for free from the Google Play Store on your Android device.
2. Add Cloud Storage: Open WPS Office, tap on 'Open', and select 'Add Cloud Storage' to link your preferred cloud accounts.
3. Manage Files Directly: Log into your OneDrive account securely to open, edit, and organize your files and subfolders effortlessly.

Connect directly to OneDrive, Google Drive, and Dropbox from within the WPS interface.Highly compatible with Microsoft Office formats (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).Free, lightweight, and fully optimized for Android devices.Familiar user interface makes document management and migration seamless.

microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

Will clearing the OneDrive app data delete my backed-up photos and documents?

No. Clearing the app data only wipes the local configuration and cached files on your Android device. Your actual documents, photos, and folders stored on Microsoft's cloud servers remain completely untouched and safe.

Why does OneDrive only allow me to upload to the root folder?

This glitch typically occurs due to corrupted local cache data or missing storage permissions preventing the app from correctly reading your cloud's subfolder structure. Resetting the app forces it to download a fresh, accurate folder map.

What if clearing data does not fix the upload and delete errors?

If the issue persists, open the Google Play Store and check if an update is available for OneDrive. Installing the latest version often patches known bugs. Alternatively, uninstalling and reinstalling the app entirely can provide a clean slate.

Document & File Issues