How to Recover a SharePoint List Item Deleted with CSOM
Question details
The user needs to recover a SharePoint list item that was deleted using the CSOM DeleteObject() method and is not visible in the standard recycle bin.

- Product
- SharePoint Online
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Attempting to restore an urgently needed SharePoint list item that was deleted via CSOM code execution.
- Observed behavior
- The list item was deleted using DeleteObject() but does not appear in the recycle bin, suggesting it may have been permanently deleted rather than moved to the trash.
Ensure you have the necessary site collection administrator permissions to view the second-stage recycle bin, or know how to contact your Microsoft 365 IT administrator for support.
Check the First and Second-Stage Recycle Bins
Verify whether the item was routed to the standard recycle bin or the secondary site collection recycle bin before assuming permanent deletion.
While certain CSOM deletion methods bypass the recycle bin, it is essential to thoroughly check both recycle bin stages first to rule out the possibility that the item is still accessible for a standard recovery.
Navigate to the SharePoint site where the list item was deleted and click on 'Recycle bin' in the left navigation pane.
Scroll to the bottom of the first-stage recycle bin page and click the 'Second-stage recycle bin' link if the item is not found.
If you locate the deleted list item in either bin, select the checkbox next to it and click the 'Restore' button.

Request Point-in-Time Restoration via Microsoft Support
If the item is completely absent from all recycle bins, you must contact Microsoft Support to attempt a backend point-in-time restoration.
Looking for a Lightweight and Compatible Office Suite?
While recovering SharePoint list items requires Microsoft 365 admin support, if you are looking for an affordable, high-performance office suite for your daily document processing, WPS Office is an excellent choice. It offers full compatibility with Microsoft Office formats in a user-friendly interface.
- 1. Visit the Official Website: Open your web browser and go to the official WPS Office website.
- 2. Download the Installer: Click the 'Free Download' button to download the appropriate installer for your operating system.
- 3. Install and Launch: Run the downloaded file and follow the simple on-screen instructions to set up the software.

Frequently Asked Questions
Does the CSOM DeleteObject() method bypass the recycle bin?
Yes, in many cases, using the Delete() or DeleteObject() methods in CSOM will permanently delete the list item, skipping both the first and second-stage SharePoint recycle bins.
How long does Microsoft retain deleted SharePoint data for support restoration?
Microsoft typically retains automated SharePoint Online backups for 14 days. During this window, an administrator can request a point-in-time restoration via a Microsoft support ticket.
How can I safely delete SharePoint items using CSOM without permanent deletion?
To ensure deleted items go to the SharePoint recycle bin where they can be manually restored by users, use the Recycle() method instead of the DeleteObject() method in your CSOM code.




