Outdoor waste receptacles, also known as trash cans or garbage bins, are a necessary part of any public space. However, not all outdoor garbage bins are created equal. There are important design considerations that determine how effective and convenient a waste receptacle will be. In this article, we will explore the key features required for an optimal outdoor trash can.
Sturdy Construction
The first requirement for an outdoor garbage bin is sturdy construction that can withstand the elements. Outdoor waste receptacles must be durable enough to handle all kinds of weather conditions – from rain and snow to extreme heat and cold.
The receptacle should be made of thick, corrosion-resistant materials such as powder-coated steel, galvanized aluminum, or heavy-duty plastics like polyethylene. The heavier and thicker the material, the more sturdy and long-lasting the bin will be.
All hardware used in the construction should also be rust-resistant to prevent degradation over time. The lid, hinges, locks and any other moving parts need to function smoothly after years of exposure to the elements.
In regions where winters bring heavy snow and ice, look for waste bins with sloped tops that prevent snow/ice accumulation and allow for easy opening of the lid. Salt and calcium chloride used for de-icing can also corrode and damage garbage cans over time. Opting for steel or aluminum over plastic may provide better protection in areas with harsh winters.
Bins made of thinner steel or flimsy plastic will easily crack, chip or warp with exposure to sun, rain, and extreme temperatures. Choosing the right durable materials from the get-go will save the need for frequent replacements.
Adequate Size
The second key requirement is an adequate size that suits the space, foot traffic and volume of waste generated. Outdoor trash receptacles come in a range of sizes from 20 gallons to over 100 gallons capacity.
For busy public spaces like parks and stadiums, larger capacity cans in the 60-100+ gallon range allow for more waste to accumulate between emptyings. They accommodate more users while reducing overflow potential.
On the other hand, smaller 20-40 gallon bins may be suitable along low foot traffic sidewalks or for creating a distributed network of receptacles across a larger area.
Consider the typical waste volume generated and collect feedback from maintenance crews to select the ideal size. Undercapacity leads to overflowing bins while oversized receptacles take up more space and waste collection resources.
Easy to Empty and Maintain
Outdoor garbage cans need to be designed for quick and easy emptying by maintenance workers. Receptacles should have wide top openings that allow waste bags or piles to be scooped out without snagging.
Many outdoor trash cans are designed as side-opening receptacles which avoid the need to lift heavy lids every time the can is emptied. Side access doors that open fully create ample room for emptying while reducing strain.
Internal structure with rounded corners or a bag retention ring allows waste bags to be easily lifted out. Features like drain holes prevent Messy buildup of liquids at the bottom.
Lockable access doors restrict animals from scattering waste but allow workers to conveniently grab and change trash bags. Cans with snap-lock or simple latch access mechanisms allow for faster servicing than those with combination locks.
Easy wheel-based mobility adds convenience for workers transporting loaded bins short distances during the emptying process. Having multiple movable waste stations increases options for efficient waste collection routes.
Visually Appealing Exterior
While functionality is important, outdoor garbage receptacles also need to look presentable as part of the surrounding landscape. Visually appealing designs add to the aesthetics rather than detracting from them.
Powder coated steel or aluminum in neutral colors like black, brown, or green allow bins to blend into natural environments. Decorative patterns, shapes and architectural accents give a unique character that complements different spaces.
For high visibility needs, brighter colors like blue, red or yellow are available. But neutral tones prevent receptacles from sticking out like a sore thumb in most settings.
Sleek, rounded silhouettes are less industrial looking than boxy shapes. Curved tops and doors create an overall visually pleasing form.
Bins should also be relatively graffiti-resistant, with smooth exterior surfaces that are easily cleaned if needed. Anti-graffiti coatings prevent stain absorption.
Labelling for Recyclables and Waste
Proper labelling is essential for separating recyclables from general waste in outdoor public space bins. Clear graphical icons indicate which materials belong in each receptacle.
Universal pictograms for paper, plastics, metals, glass, compostables, landfill trash and any other waste categories should be displayed. Contrasting text and colors maximize visibility of the labels.
Many receptacles have dedicated openings or compartments for separating recyclable streams like paper, bottles, and cans. Clear markings reinforce which items belong in each section to reduce contamination.
Having accompanying educational signs with text descriptions and material examples reinforces proper usage. Multilingual labels in regions with diverse populations also helps reduce confusion and contamination in recycling bins.
Rain/Tamper Protection Features
Outdoor waste bins are exposed to the elements and public access around the clock. So specialized features to keep the interior dry and prevent tampering are important.
Lids overlapping with a canopy or hood help keep rainwater out of the can. Domed lids prevent direct water entry while allowing trash to pass through the opening. Self-closing flaps further protect the interior from moisture.
Locks on access doors deter dumpster divers and animals from rummaging through the receptacles and creating unwanted mess.
Advanced smart waste stations may also utilize built-in sensors to detect and alert collection crews when a bin needs to be emptied. This prevents overflowing or clogged bins caused by dumping of unauthorized materials.
Fire Safety
Trash receptacles pose fire risks if flammable materials build up inside. Outdoor waste stations must be designed with fire prevention in mind.
Self-extinguishing polyethylene plastic compounds prevent small blazes from igniting into larger infernos. Aluminum or steel frames offer non-combustible construction.
Ventilation prevents methane gas buildup from decomposing waste. Dome-shaped lids allow heat and gases to dissipate instead of being trapped inside.
Advanced features like sprinklers, thermal imaging sensors and even WiFi-enabled smoke detectors can automatically detect and extinguish fires inside the receptacle before they spread.
Bottom-only openings reduce the oxygen entering a can compared to top-access models. Fire-resistant garbage bags provide an added layer of protection.
Bear/Vermin Resistant
In parks, campuses and other sites near wilderness, animal attacks on outdoor waste receptacles can create costly and hazardous situations. Garbage cans in these contexts need to be bear and vermin-proof.
Heavy-duty steel construction with reinforced corners and lid stands up to abuse from large animals like bears. Metal components make it virtually impossible for them to chew or pry open entry points.
Locking mechanisms keep lids and access doors firmly shut against persistent animals looking for an easy meal. Rotating locking bars provide 360° protection compared to simple latch mechanisms.
Rotating composter-style tumblers fully enclose waste in an inaccessible drum, allowing liquid waste to drain out safely. Domed steel enclosures also protect against vermin entry.
Reducing food waste accumulation, frequent emptying and proper facility maintenance helps reduce attracting nuisance wildlife to outdoor bins. But having animal-resistant receptacles prevents potentially hazardous direct confrontations.
Optimized Height and Placement
The positioning and height of outdoor trash receptacles requires strategic planning for convenient use. Bins should be readily visible and accessible without obstructing high traffic areas.
Receptacles are best installed close to intersections, building entrances and other hightraffic zones where waste tends to accumulate. Sufficient density ensures a can is always nearby when needed.
Allow adequate clearance so bins do not block pedestrian right of ways, impede ADA accessibility, or force users to step into roads or bike lanes. Keep at least 3 feet of clearance in all directions.
Standard heights ranging from 34 to 50 inches suit most able-bodied adults. Top openings angled at 45 degrees facilitate ergonomic disposal without excessive reaching or bending.
For wheelchair accessibility, at least one side of the receptacle should have an opening no higher than 36 inches above grade. Side-opening doors are ideal for wheelchair access.
Anchoring and Stability
Freestanding outdoor waste receptacles need to be properly anchored and weighted to prevent tipping accidents. Adequate stability ensures bins remain upright in all conditions.
Weighted bases provide a low center of gravity that withstands tilting forces. Bins should be able to remain upright when tipped 15° past center.
Permanently bolting receptacles into a concrete footing prevents dragging or theft of untethered bins. But it limits repositioning flexibility for evolving needs.
Temporary anchors like steel cables allow receptacles to be moved but restrain tipping motion. Chains attached to eye bolts embedded in the concrete also work.
On soft surfaces like grass or dirt, buried tire anchors connected to the bin prevent sinking and instability over time.
Affordability and Cost Efficiency
When purchasing outdoor waste receptacles, long term cost considerations need to balance purchase expenses. Higher upfront investments pay off over years of prolonged use before replacement is needed.
Budget plastic bins corrode and fail faster than steel or aluminum, requiring frequent replacement. Purchasing durable bins less often is more cost efficient long-term.
Collector-friendly receptacles with labor-saving side access doors or wheels also provide ongoing operational savings from more efficient emptying. Less staff time spent per bin adds up significantly.
Larger capacity receptacles holding 60+ gallons require less frequent emptying than smaller 20-30 gallon bins filled quicker. Optimizing bin size and durability provides cost efficiencies.
The Right Fit for Each Location
Finding the ideal outdoor garbage can ultimately depends on selecting features to match the needs of each specific location. High foot traffic areas need more capacity. Parks require animal-resistant designs. Sidewalks need accessibility for wheelchairs.
Consider all the unique requirements – from climate, potential waste volumes, pedestrian usage patterns and wildlife issues – before purchasing to find the perfect receptacle that fits.
While off-the-shelf bins offer general purpose functionality, designing a fully customized waste station tailored to each space allows optimizing for every variable. This ensures the best possible user experience.
With the right features for durability, wear resistance, ease of servicing, fire safety and aesthetic appeal, a thoughtfully designed outdoor waste receptacle can provide years of reliable functionality. Considering these essential factors will lead to the best public space binning solution.
Frequently Asked Questions About Outdoor Waste Receptacles
What are the most durable materials for outdoor trash cans?
The most durable materials for outdoor waste receptacles are galvanized steel, powder coated aluminum, and heavy-duty polyethylene plastics. These resist corrosion, dents, and weather degradation outdoors.
What size outdoor trash can is best?
The ideal size depends on the context. For high traffic public spaces, 60-100+ gallon capacity is best to limit overflow with less frequent emptying. For low volume areas, 20-40 gallon bins may suffice.
How many trash cans are needed per acre of a park?
Industry standards recommend 2-3 waste receptacles per acre of park land. More are needed near dense amenities like athletic fields. Even distribution prevents excessive walking to find a bin.
How often should outdoor trash cans be emptied?
During peak usage periods, outdoor waste stations may need emptying 1-2 times per day or more. Less busy locations may require cleaning every 2-4 days. Monitor fullness and adjust pickup schedules accordingly.
Should outdoor trash cans be bolted down?
Yes, securing public space waste bins is recommended to prevent tip over hazards and theft. Concrete anchors, buried tires, or weighted bases help properly secure freestanding cans.
How do you prevent animals from getting into outdoor garbage cans?
Animal-resistant bins made of steel or aluminum with reinforced locking lids and access doors prevent entry by bears, racoons, or other persistent wildlife that can create risky situations.
How do I stop my outdoor garbage can from blowing over?
Use receptacles with weighted or anchored bases to lower the center of gravity and prevent toppling by winds. Rotating hooked bins eliminates blowing over and tipping issues.
Where should outdoor garbage cans be placed?
Strategically place outdoor waste receptacles near high foot traffic locations like building entryways, street intersections, park shelters, and other zones with concentrated waste generation.
How do you keep trash cans from smelling outside?
Use liners and take out waste frequently. Sprinkle baking soda inside receptacles to absorb odors. Keep lids closed. Usecharcoal filters. Empty before contents start decomposing.
Key Takeaways on Outdoor Waste Receptacle Requirements
- Durability from corrosion-resistant heavy-duty materials like steel, aluminum and polyethylene is crucial for outdoor public use.
- Receptacle size should suit typical volumes generated to prevent under or overcapacity issues.
- Features for easy emptying and maintenance like wide side openings streamline servicing.
- Visually appealing neutral colors help receptacles blend into surroundings.
- Proper labelling and signage creates clear waste/recycling separation streams.
- Rain, vermin, and tamper-proof designs keep interiors clean and protected.
- Fire safety through ventilation, sensors, extinguishers and other features reduces risk.
- In wildlife prone areas, animal resistant cans prevent hazardous altercations.
- Strategic placement for height, clearance, and accessibility optimizes user experience.
- Anchors and weighted bases prevent tipping while allowing repositioning flexibility.
- Considering long term value over upfront cost provides the most economical solution.
- Selecting features to specifically match the location’s needs results in the right receptacle for each space.