If you’re looking to keep your outdoor spaces clean and tidy, investing in a quality outdoor trash can is a must.
Outdoor trash cans come in a variety of sizes and styles, making it easy to find one that fits your needs and complements your outdoor decor.
From sleek and modern designs to more traditional options, there’s an outdoor trash can for every taste and budget.
When shopping for an outdoor trash can, it’s important to consider factors such as capacity, durability, and ease of use.
Look for a can that is large enough to accommodate your needs and made from sturdy materials that can withstand the elements.
Many outdoor trash cans also feature convenient features such as wheels for easy transport and lids that keep odors and pests at bay.
With the right outdoor trash can, you can keep your outdoor spaces looking neat and tidy all year round.
Essential Features of Outdoor Trash Cans
When it comes to choosing an outdoor trash can, there are certain features you should consider to ensure that it meets your needs.

Here are some of the essential features you should look for:
Durability
Outdoor trash cans should be able to withstand harsh weather conditions and rough handling.
Look for trash cans made of durable materials like metal or heavy-duty plastic.
The trash can should also be resistant to corrosion, rust, and fading.
Additionally, the trash can should have a sturdy lid that can withstand strong winds and keep the contents secure.
Size and Capacity
The size and capacity of the trash can you choose will depend on the amount of garbage you expect to generate.
For public spaces or high-traffic areas, you may need a larger trash can with a capacity of 32 gallons or more.
However, for smaller areas like patios or balconies, a smaller trash can with a capacity of 13 gallons or less may be sufficient.
Design and Aesthetics
While functionality is important, the design and aesthetics of the trash can also play a role in its effectiveness.
Look for trash cans that blend in with the surrounding environment and complement the overall aesthetic.
The color and design of the trash can should not clash with the surrounding landscape or architecture.
In summary, when choosing an outdoor trash can, consider its durability, size and capacity, and design and aesthetics.
By keeping these features in mind, you can select a trash can that meets your needs and enhances the appearance of your outdoor space.
Benefits of Using Outdoor Trash Cans
If you have an outdoor space, whether it’s a backyard, a patio, or a commercial area, an outdoor trash can is a must-have.

Here are some benefits of using outdoor trash cans:
Hygiene and Cleanliness
One of the main reasons to use outdoor trash cans is to keep your outdoor space clean and hygienic.
Garbage cans left unattended can become breeding grounds for flies, maggots, and other pests.
By using an outdoor trash can, you can keep your outdoor space clean and free from pests.
Wildlife Control
If you live in an area with wildlife, such as raccoons, squirrels, or bears, outdoor trash cans can help keep them away.
These animals are attracted to the smell of garbage, and they can easily knock over and rummage through unprotected garbage cans.
By using an outdoor trash can, you can keep your garbage safe from wildlife and prevent a mess.
Aesthetics and Organization
Outdoor trash cans can also improve the aesthetics and organization of your outdoor space.
Instead of having garbage bags lying around, an outdoor trash can provides a designated place for garbage.
Plus, there are many styles and designs of outdoor trash cans to choose from, so you can find one that matches your outdoor decor.
Overall, using an outdoor trash can is a simple and effective way to keep your outdoor space clean, organized, and free from pests.
Types Of Outdoor Trash Cans
When it comes to outdoor trash cans, there are a variety of types to choose from.

Whether you need a trash can for your home, business, or public space, you can find one that suits your needs.
Residential
Residential outdoor trash cans are designed for use in homes and other residential settings.
They are typically smaller in size and are designed to blend in with the surrounding environment.
Some common features of residential outdoor trash cans include:
- Capacity: Residential outdoor trash cans typically have a capacity of 10-30 gallons, making them suitable for small to medium-sized households.
- Materials: These trash cans are often made from materials such as plastic, metal, or wood, and may be designed to match the exterior of the home.
- Features: Many residential outdoor trash cans come with features such as locking lids, wheels, and odor control to help keep the area clean and tidy.
Commercial
Commercial outdoor trash cans are designed for use in businesses and other commercial settings.
They are typically larger in size and are designed to withstand heavy use.
Some common features of commercial outdoor trash cans include:
- Capacity: Commercial outdoor trash cans can range in size from 30-100 gallons, making them suitable for larger businesses and high-traffic areas.
- Materials: These trash cans are often made from durable materials such as metal or concrete, and may be designed to resist vandalism and weathering.
- Features: Commercial outdoor trash cans may come with features such as locking lids, ashtrays, or recycling compartments to help businesses manage their waste effectively.
Public Spaces
Outdoor trash cans in public spaces are designed to be durable, easy to use, and able to withstand heavy use.
They are typically larger in size and are designed to blend in with the surrounding environment.
Some common features of public space outdoor trash cans include:
- Capacity: Public space outdoor trash cans can range in size from 30-100 gallons, making them suitable for high-traffic areas such as parks, stadiums, and shopping centers.
- Materials: These trash cans are often made from durable materials such as metal or concrete, and may be designed to resist vandalism and weathering.
- Features: Public space outdoor trash cans may come with features such as locking lids, ashtrays, or recycling compartments to help keep the area clean and tidy.
Overall, when choosing an outdoor trash can, it is important to consider the specific needs of your space.
Whether you need a small residential trash can or a large commercial or public space trash can, there is a variety of options available to suit your needs.
Maintenance and Cleaning Tips
Keeping your outdoor trash cans clean and properly maintained is essential to prevent unwanted odors and pests.

Here are some tips to help you keep your outdoor trash cans in good condition.
Regular Emptying
Emptying your outdoor trash cans regularly is the first step to keeping them clean.
Make sure to empty them at least once a week, or more frequently if they become full faster.
This will prevent the buildup of trash and reduce the risk of unpleasant odors.
Cleaning Methods
Regular cleaning of your outdoor trash cans is essential to keep them free from bacteria and germs.
Here are some cleaning methods you can use:
- Rinse with water: Use a water hose to rinse out the trash can thoroughly.
- This will help remove any loose dirt and wet the can for cleaning.
- Use a cleaning solution: Mix a natural cleaning solution in a large bucket. Add 2 cups of vinegar and 1 cup of baking soda to 1 gallon of warm water.
- Dip a scrub brush into the solution and scrub the inside of the can thoroughly.
- Rinse with water and let dry.
- Use dish soap: Add ½ cup of dish liquid to a bucket of warm water.
- Dip a scrub brush into the solution and scrub the inside of the can thoroughly.
- Rinse with water and let dry.
Longevity Tips
To extend the life of your outdoor trash cans, here are some tips:
- Store them in a shaded area: Exposure to direct sunlight can cause the plastic to degrade over time.
- Store your trash cans in a shaded area to prevent damage.
- Use trash bags: Using trash bags can help prevent the buildup of dirt and grime inside the can, making it easier to clean.
- Replace damaged cans: If your trash can is cracked or damaged, replace it immediately.
- Damaged cans can leak and attract pests, making them a health hazard.
By following these maintenance and cleaning tips, you can keep your outdoor trash cans in good condition, preventing unwanted odors and pests.
Choosing The Right Outdoor Trash Can
When it comes to choosing the right outdoor trash can, there are several factors to consider.

Here are some things to keep in mind to help you make the best decision for your needs.
Budget
The first thing to consider is your budget.
Outdoor trash cans can range in price from under $20 to over $200.
While you may be tempted to go for the cheapest option, keep in mind that a low-quality trash can may not last as long or be as effective at keeping pests out.
Consider investing in a higher-quality trash can that will last longer and ultimately save you money in the long run.
Location and Usage
Another important factor to consider is where the trash can will be located and how it will be used.
If the trash can will be located in an area with heavy foot traffic, you may want to choose a trash can with a locking lid to prevent people from dumping unwanted items.
If the trash can will be used for yard waste, you may want to choose a larger size to accommodate the volume of waste you will be generating.
Material and Durability
The material and durability of the trash can are also important factors to consider.
Look for trash cans made from durable materials such as stainless steel or heavy-duty plastic.
These materials are less likely to crack or break over time and will be more effective at keeping pests out.
Additionally, consider the weight of the trash can.
A heavier trash can will be less likely to tip over or blow away in high winds.
By considering your budget, location and usage, and the material and durability of the trash can, you can make an informed decision and choose the right outdoor trash can for your needs.
Key Takeaways
When it comes to choosing the best outdoor trash can, there are a few key factors to consider.
- First and foremost, you’ll want to think about the size of the can.
- For outdoor use, extra-large 32-gallon trash cans are the most popular.
- These larger cans are perfect for containing trash accumulated indoors for several days or for items like bulky yard debris.
- Durability is also an important consideration.
- Look for a trash can that is made from sturdy materials like plastic or metal, and that is designed to withstand the elements.
- A can with a tight-fitting lid can help keep pests and animals out, and wheels can make it easier to move the can around when it’s time for garbage pickup.
- Ease of use is another important factor.
- Some outdoor trash cans are designed to be collapsible or foldable, making them easy to store when not in use.
- Others come with features like foot pedals for hands-free operation, or built-in handles for easy lifting and transport.
- Finally, don’t forget about aesthetics.
- While outdoor trash cans may not be the most glamorous of items, choosing a can that looks good and fits in with your outdoor decor can help make the chore of taking out the trash a little more pleasant.
- Consider options like decorative designs or colors that complement your home’s exterior.
Overall, choosing the best outdoor trash can comes down to finding a can that is the right size, durable, easy to use, and aesthetically pleasing.
With these factors in mind, you can find a trash can that makes garbage pickup a breeze.