Having the download folder on the Mac dock is perfect for accessing downloaded files. If you have deleted it or it’s missing for some other reason. Then you may want to restore the download folder back to the dock. Doing so is a little more tricky than it should be so let’s see How to Add Downloads to Dock on Mac.
- Open Finder
- From Finder Select Go from the menu bar
- Now select Home from the Go menu
- Find the Downloads Folder and drag and drop it next to the recycle bin.
It is not always easy following along with a how-to with a simple list. So I have the how-to with pictures and, if you look below, even video instructions.
How to Restore Missing Downloads Folder to Dock on Mac
Below we will run through how to get that download folder back but we will also cover off to personalize it. We also have the option to add it back to the dock using the terminal.
Just to point out before we jump into this guide. While this guide is about the download folder this will work with any other folder on the Mac.
Step 1. Open Finder
Step 2. From Finder Select Go from the menu bar
Step 3. Now select Home from the Go menu
Step 4. Find the Downloads Folder and drag and drop it next to the recycle bin.
Drag the folder to the right-hand side of the bar next to the recycle bin.
How to Change the Style of Download Folder on Dock
You have a few different options to change. You have the option to change how the download folder appears and displays the data.
- Sort by – There are five different ways to sort the files/data within the folder. The most popular option is Date Added so when you click the folder. The latest downloaded file will be displayed.
- Display as – You now have two different options here Folder and Stack. The Folder display is the most popular selection as you can see in the image below. The Stack display view can appear very messy but worth looking to see if it suits your needs.
- View content as – You now have four different options here. These settings are how the files will display when you click the download folder. This is a personal preference thing and going through each one that suits you would be best practice.
While the download folder can seem just like a basic part of your Mac. It can be a big part of your daily use of the Mac. Being able to make these changes is great to display the data that best suits your needs.
How to Remove The Downloads Folder From Mac Dock
If you ever come to the point that you no longer want to see the download folder on the dock any longer.
Then there are two ways to remove the folder dragging and dropping it into the recycle bin is the first way. Just a note that this will just remove it from the dock and not actually delete the folder.
The best way to remove the downloads folder from the Mac dock is:
- Right-click on the download folder
- Select Options from the popup menu
- Now select Remove from dock to remove the download folder
Reset Dock to Restore Downloads Folder Using Terminal
If you are having problems getting the download folder on the dock. Then the best option is to use the terminal to get the download folder back.
Step 1. Open Spotlight Search
Step 2. Search Terminal and open
Step 3. Now with the terminal open, paste the following code and press enter.
defaults delete com.apple.dock; killall DockWarning: This code completely resets your dock and if you have customized the dock then it will all be lost.
If you don’t see the download folder back on the dock then you need to restart the Mac and it should now be back.
How To Restore Disappeared Downloads Folder To Dock Video
If you prefer video, I have you covered with this simple-to-follow video on How To Restore the Disappeared Downloads Folder To Dock.
