How to Delete files in Python using send2trash module?

The send2trash module allows files and folders to be moved to the system's Trash or Recycle Bin instead of being permanently deleted. This provides a safer alternative to functions such as os.remove() and os.rmdir(), as deleted items can be restored if removed accidentally.

• Works across Windows, macOS, and Linux.
• Supports deleting both files and directories.

Installing send2trash

Install send2trash using following command:

pip install send2trash

Delete a File

The send2trash() function moves a file to the system's Trash or Recycle Bin instead of permanently deleting it.

Example:

Output

File moved to Trash.

Explanation:

• sample.txt is moved to the Trash.
• The file can be restored later if needed.
• No permanent deletion occurs.

Syntax:

send2trash.send2trash(path)

Delete a Folder

The send2trash() function supports deleting directories by moving them to the Trash or Recycle Bin. Any files and nested folders inside the directory are moved along with it, providing a safe alternative to permanent deletion.

Example:

Output

Folder moved to Trash.

Explanation:

• send2trash.send2trash() function moves the "Documents" folder to the system's Trash or Recycle Bin.
• Any files and subfolders contained within the folder are also moved to the Trash, allowing them to be restored later if needed.

Syntax:

send2trash.send2trash(folder_path)

Delete Multiple Files

A list of file paths can be processed to move multiple files to the Trash at once.

Example:

Output

Files moved to Trash.

Explanation:

• Iterates through a list of files.
• Moves each file to the Trash.
• Useful for batch deletion tasks.

Handle Exceptions While Deleting Files

Exception handling can be used to manage permission errors and invalid paths during deletion.

Example:

Output

If no error raised: File moved to Trash.

If error raised: Error: Permission denied

Explanation:

• Attempts to move the file to the Trash.
• Handles errors gracefully if deletion fails.
• Prevents the program from crashing.

Related Articles

• OS module'sunlink()
• remove()
• rmdir()
• os.walk()