Deleted File Recovery

How to Recover Deleted OneDrive Photos and Files After Storage Cleanup

Maira Mehtab Sep 22, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user needs to recover photos and files that were accidentally removed from their phone during a OneDrive storage cleanup. A subsequent attempt to restore OneDrive returned a file-not-found message.

Product: OneDrive
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Accidental deletion of synced files during cloud storage cleanup, followed by a failed cloud restore attempt.
Observed behavior: Files deleted from OneDrive to free up space disappeared from the local phone storage. Renewing the subscription and attempting to restore OneDrive to an earlier date resulted in a file-not-found error.

Before you start

Immediately stop saving new files or taking new photos on your phone to prevent overwriting the deleted data, and ensure you are logged into the correct Microsoft account before attempting recovery.

Solution 1Recommended

Recover from the OneDrive Recycle Bin

Check the native cloud recycle bin where deleted files are kept for a limited time before permanent deletion.

Sign in to OneDrive

Navigate to the OneDrive website in your web browser and log in with your Microsoft account credentials.

Access the Recycle Bin

Click on the 'Recycle bin' option located in the left-hand navigation pane of the OneDrive interface.

Restore Your Files

Select the checkboxes next to the missing photos and files you want to retrieve, then click the 'Restore' button at the top of the page.

Retention Period: Personal accounts retain recycle bin files for 30 days, while work or school accounts retain them for 93 days.

Solution 2

Use Local Data Recovery Software

If the OneDrive restore feature returns a file-not-found error, local data recovery scanning on your phone is your next best option.

Free Microsoft Office alternative

Switch to WPS Office for Reliable File Management and Local Control

Tired of confusing cloud syncs that delete your local files without warning? WPS Office is a free, lightweight alternative to Microsoft Office that offers seamless document editing, local saving, and secure WPS Cloud integration to keep your files exactly where you want them.

1. Download the App: Visit the official WPS website and click 'Download WPS Office Free' for your device.
2. Install WPS Office: Run the downloaded installer and follow the simple on-screen instructions to set up the software.
3. Edit and Save Securely: Launch WPS Office to easily open, edit, and safely store your documents locally or in the WPS Cloud.

Free, lightweight, and easy-to-use office suite for all your document needsFully compatible with Microsoft Office formats (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)Integrated WPS Cloud with reliable document version history and built-in file recoveryPrevents accidental local file deletion with clear, user-friendly cloud-sync controls

microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did deleting files on OneDrive also delete them from my phone?

OneDrive uses a two-way synchronization process. When you delete a file from the cloud to free up space, the sync engine assumes you want it removed everywhere, so it automatically deletes the local copy on your connected phone as well.

What does the 'file-not-found' error mean when trying to restore OneDrive?

This error usually occurs if the files were permanently purged from the Microsoft servers, the recycle bin was manually emptied, or the version history was overwritten before you renewed your storage subscription.

Will third-party data recovery software restore my original folders?

Usually, no. While restoring from the OneDrive Recycle Bin retains your folder structure, recovering files using third-party local data recovery software often results in files losing their original names and folder organization, meaning you will need to sort them manually.

How long do deleted files stay in the OneDrive Recycle Bin?

For standard personal Microsoft accounts, deleted items are kept in the recycle bin for 30 days. For work or school accounts, they are retained for 93 days unless the bin is emptied sooner.

Migration & Recovery