How to Hide or Show Desktop Icons in Windows 10 and 11?

The Windows 10&11 desktop is convenient in that it is essentially a folder that sits front and center, allowing access to specific files and applications without having to open File Explorer. However, it tends to get messy over time, as many applications automatically place a shortcut on the desktop. So how to make your desktop neat and organized? We can make it neater by hiding or showing the desktop icons in Windows 10 and 11.

If you are interested, you can also read the articles to learn more about desktop icons: How to Customize the Desktop Icons in Windows 10?

Hide or show all desktop icons

Right-click on the desktop, find "view", click "show desktop icons", and all the icons on the desktop will disappear. Hidden desktop icons can be found in File Explorer. If you change your mind and want to show icons, just click show desktop icons again.

Hide or show individual desktop icons

Step 1: Right-click on the desktop application or file you want to hide. Select "Properties" to open it.

Step 2: Under "General" Options, check "Hidden" and click "ok" to finish the changes. Once done, the icon will disappear from the desktop.

Step 3: If you change your mind and want to show this icon on the desktop, open File Explorer with WIN+E.

Step 4: Navigate to the Desktop and click View.

Step 5: Select the "Options"→Change folder and search options.

Step 6: Click "View", then click "show hidden files, folders, or drives", and finally click "OK". Hidden icons will show on the desktop again.

But the displayed icon is more transparent. You can right-click "Properties", select "General", and then "uncheck the Hide button's checkbox" to make the icon normal, finally click "ok" to finish the change. ( It's the same as steps 1 and 2.)