Can't Empty the Trash on Mac

Trash is a useful feature on Mac that allows users a second chance to reconsider the removal of an application or file. Sometimes, however, you may be perfectly sure that you want to get rid of a particular item completely but Trash will not let you. Users who are encountering problems associated with being unable to empty the Trash can try the solutions outlined below.

Try a Restart

It may seem obvious but restarting the Mac may be all that is needed to fix the issue. Doing so will stop any files placed in the Trash that may have still been used by an associated application or a process and thus unable to be removed. To restart your device go to the Apple icon in the top menu and click on 'Restart.' When the system boots, try to empty the Trash.

Use Terminal to Empty the Trash

A more forceful method is to empty the Trash through Terminal commands. To start open the Terminal application by using either the Spotlight Search or finding it in the Utilities folder. Once inside Terminal, type sudo rm and do NOT press Enter. Also, make note that there is a space after 'rm' in the command.

Now, open the Trash from the Dock and start dragging the files inside to the Terminal window. When you are done, press Enter on your keyboard. If prompted, enter your admin password to confirm your decision and press Enter once more.

Empty the Trash via an Option Ke

One method to clear the Trash without opening it is to use the Option key. Start by locating the Trash icon in the Dock. Press and hold the Option key (or Option+Shift) and double-click the Trash icon. Choose 'Empty Bin' from the available options. Confirm your decision in the pop-up window.