Deleting folders in python recursively

python

file-system

pathlib

shutil

byAnton Shumikhin·Jan 14, 2025

To delete entire folders, use shutil.rmtree() from the shutil module:

import shutil

# This line is like a Thanos snap for your folder
shutil.rmtree('folder_path')

Your folder and its contents don't feel so good. They're gone.

Now, be Spider-Man. Don't forget responsibilities when you wield power:

try:
    shutil.rmtree('folder_path')
except OSError as e:
    print(f"Error: {e.strerror}")

It catches errors, just like a spider's web.

Diving deeper: Solving common problems

Non-empty directories throwing a tantrum

os.rmdir() falls shorts as Kim Kardashian's marriage, it cannot cope with non-empty directories. Enter shutil.rmtree(). It childproofs this tantrum, politely boots out any lingering contents.

Those sneaky hidden files

Like tomatoes in a fruit salad, hidden files can be quite annoying. They often prompt “directory not empty” alerts. shutil.rmtree(), though, has no problem escorting them out.

Location, location, location!

When you're sending those directories to oblivion, ensure you're sending the right ones. Use absolute paths:

# Guided missile precision — targets exactly the right directory
shutil.rmtree('/absolute/path/to/folder_path')

Why haul the whole toolbox?

If resource usage keeping you up at night, just bring the tools you need:

# Don't bring a bazooka to a knife fight
from shutil import rmtree

rmtree('folder_path')

Permissions: It's not just for parents

Don't forget to check permissions before deleting directories. It's the law of the filesystem jungle.

Let pathlib join the party

If OOP is your groove, join the pathlib party:

from pathlib import Path

# It's like a house party: Remove guests, then containers!
p = Path('folder_path')
for child in p.iterdir():
    if child.is_file():
        child.unlink()
    elif child.is_dir():
        shutil.rmtree(child)
p.rmdir()  # Make sure the house is finally empty

Systematically removes files, then directories. Recursive and funky!

Precautions and best practices

Back up before blast-off

Like a space mission, always back up your data before launching shutil.rmtree(). It's a one-way trip to oblivion.

Mastering os.walk()

For DIY-ers, os.walk() can walk directory trees:

import os

# It's like mopping: Start from the farthest corner, then move to the exit!
for root, dirs, files in os.walk('folder_path', topdown=False):
    for name in files:
        os.unlink(os.path.join(root, name))
    for name in dirs:
        os.rmdir(os.path.join(root, name))