How to Restore Deleted HTM Files After Combining Them into a PDF
Question details
The user is trying to recover original HTM files that disappeared after combining them into a PDF binder, which was then closed without saving.
- Product
- Adobe Acrobat
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Merging multiple HTM files into a single PDF document.
- Observed behavior
- The source HTM files are missing from the original folder, Recent Documents, and the Recycle Bin, and the unsaved PDF binder cannot be recovered from the application.
Stop writing new data or downloading large files to your computer's storage drive immediately to prevent overwriting the deleted HTM files before you can recover them.
Recover HTM Files from Backups or Temporary Folders
Since the application permanently removed the files upon combining, your best first step is to check system backups, cloud sync histories, and temporary application data folders.
Acrobat normally does not delete source files unless a specific setting is enabled. However, when files bypass the Recycle Bin, checking automated system backups like File History or cloud storage versions is the most reliable recovery method.
Open the Windows Start menu, type 'Restore your files with File History', and hit Enter. Navigate to the specific folder where your HTM files were originally stored and look for a recent backup timestamp.
If the original folder was synced to OneDrive, Google Drive, or Dropbox, log in to the web version of your cloud storage. Check the respective 'Trash' or 'Recycle Bin' sections, as cloud services retain deleted files for 30 days.
Press Win + R, type '%temp%', and hit Enter. Sort the files by 'Date modified' to see if a cached version of your HTM files or the unsaved binder was temporarily stored during the merging process.
Use Data Recovery Software
If backups are unavailable and the files are not in the Recycle Bin, specialized data recovery software can scan your drive for the raw data of the deleted HTM files.
Prevent Source File Deletion in Combine Settings
Modify your Acrobat Combine Files settings to ensure original source files are never automatically deleted in future merges.
Safely Combine Files into PDF with WPS Office
WPS Office provides a secure, intuitive PDF toolkit that allows you to seamlessly merge multiple files into a single PDF document. By default, WPS never deletes your original source files, ensuring your data remains completely safe even if you forget to save the combined binder.
- 1. Launch the PDF Toolkit: Open WPS Office and click on the 'PDF' tab from the home screen.
- 2. Select Merge PDF: Click on 'Merge PDF' from the top toolbar or the dedicated PDF tools menu.
- 3. Add Your Source Files: Click 'Add Files' to import the documents you want to combine. You can drag and drop them into the specific order you need.
- 4. Safely Combine and Save: Click 'Merge' to generate the new PDF. WPS will prompt you to save the new document while keeping your original source files perfectly intact in their original folders.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did my original HTM files disappear after combining them into a PDF?
If you used Adobe Acrobat, it is likely that the 'Always delete source files after combining' option was previously enabled in the Combine Files settings. This automatically sends the original files to deletion once the merge completes.
Can I recover an unsaved PDF binder after closing the application?
No, if the combined PDF binder was closed without being saved, the application cannot restore it. You will need to recover your original source files and perform the combine action again.
Are files deleted by PDF merging software sent to the Recycle Bin?
Usually, files deleted via an application's automated background process bypass the Windows Recycle Bin or Mac Trash. However, it is always recommended to check the Recycle Bin first just in case.
How can I combine files without losing my originals?
Always ensure you are using reliable software like WPS Office, which safely keeps source files intact. If using Acrobat, click the Options gear in the Combine Files window and uncheck 'Always delete source files after combining'.
