Which Container is Acceptable for Outdoor Trash Storage? - Outdoor Cabinets

Choosing the right outdoor trash container is an important decision for any home or business owner. The container you select needs to be durable, critter-proof, weather resistant, and blend in with your outdoor space. With so many options on the market, deciding which container is best for your needs can feel overwhelming. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the pros and cons of various outdoor trash can styles to help you determine which container is acceptable for your outdoor trash storage needs.

Wheelie Bins

Wheelie bins, also sometimes called toter carts or rolling carts, are a popular choice for outdoor trash storage. These large plastic bins sit on two or four wheels and feature lids that open with the assistance of attached hinges.

Pros of Wheelie Bins:

High capacity – Wheelie bins come in a variety of sizes, but commonly hold between 90 to 360 liters. Their large capacity makes wheelie bins a good choice for high volume waste producers.
Mobility – The wheels on these cans allow for easy rolling to the curb on trash day so you don’t have to lift and carry a heavy load. Their mobility also allows you to bring the trash can from the street back up a long driveway with minimal effort.
Secure lids – Wheelie bins are designed with tight fitting lids that keep pests out, contain odors, and prevent rainwater from getting into the trash.
Durability – Thick plastic construction means wheelie bins can withstand years of sun exposure, freezing temperatures, and rough handling from trash collectors.
Customization – Many wheelie bin models allow you to choose from an array of colors to match your home. Some also have the option for adding decals or house numbers.

Cons of Wheelie Bins:

Large footprint – Wheelie bins take up significant ground space, even when not in use. This can be problematic in smaller outdoor areas.
Tipability – Top heavy wheelie bins can tip over if not situated on level ground. Spilled trash is never pleasant to clean up.
Blowability – Light plastic wheelie bins can blow over or away on windy trash days. This may mean having to chase down your runaway trash bin.
Added expense – Quality wheelie bins range in price from $50 to over $150. Cheaper bins may wear out sooner.

Trash Cans

Standard trash cans are a very common outdoor container option. These are the ubiquitous round or square metal or plastic cans that hold trash bags.

Pros of Trash Cans:

Ubiquitous – Trash cans are widely available at any hardware store or through online retailers. You can easily find cans in the size, color, and style you need.
Inexpensive – Basic trash cans typically range from $10 to $50 making them an budget friendly option. Even higher quality decorative cans are under $100.
Compact – Standard trash cans take up very little ground space. Shorter squatter cans are more stable than tall thin options.
Easy to secure – Trash can lids can accommodate padlocks to keep pests and snoops out of your garbage.
Customizable – Trash cans come in literally endless color, size, shape, and material options to match your space. You can also wrap the exterior in faux materials.
Can contain odor – Tight fitting lids keep stink in so you and passing pedestrians aren’t assaulted with noxious odors.

Cons of Trash Cans:

Bag spills – Knocking over an unsecured trash bag can create an ugly rotten mess. Using bungee cords or built-in bag holders helps secure the bag.
Weak durability – Thin metal or plastic cans easily show dents and scratches. They may also crack or break in extreme weather.
Tipability – A light plastic trash can without a weighted bottom is easy to accidentally or purposefully knock over.
Not animal proof – Trash cans with loose sitting lids often fail at keeping raccoons and dogs out of the garbage.
No mobility – Without wheels, trash cans in an inconvenient spot must be manually lifted and carried.

Wooden Trash Bin Boxes

For a more decorative look than a basic plastic or metal can, wooden trash boxes are an option. These are typically wooden crates or chests that hold trash cans or bags.

Pros of Wooden Trash Bin Boxes:

Attractive appearance – Wooden bins add a touch of aesthetics to outdoor trash storage. The natural look blends into landscaping.
Durable construction – Good quality wood boxes can withstand sun, rain, snow, and animal damage for many years. Western red cedar and teak are excellent choices.
Hides trash – A wooden box conceals trash bags or cans inside, keeping garbage out of sight.
Size options – Wooden boxes come in many lengths and widths to accommodate cans or bags of all sizes. Custom-built is also an option.
Can be portable – Smaller wooden boxes with handles allow you to tote stored trash to the curb.
Odor control – Well constructed wood boxes contain odors inside so passersby don’t smell your trash.

Cons of Wooden Trash Bin Boxes:

Requires ventilation – To control odor, wood boxes need vent holes but these must be small enough to keep pests out.
Needs sealing – Without weatherproofing sealant, wood exposed to the elements will quickly warp, split, and rot away.
Not impervious to animals – Raccons, bears, and dogs can potentially still get into poorly constructed wood boxes.
Higher cost – Pre-built wooden boxes typically cost over $100. Custom boxes even more. DIY options require tools, skill, and the right wood selection.
Adds weight – When moving a wood box, you have to contend with the combined weight of the box and bags/cans inside.

Stone Trash Enclosures

For a decorative trash storage look integrated into landscaping or masonry, stone garbage enclosures are an option. Walled enclosures can be built from natural stone or faux rocks.

Pros of Stone Trash Enclosures:

Attractive appearance – Carefully constructed stone blends into outdoor environments better than plastic or metal.
Highly durable – Natural or faux stone stands up to weather, animals, and wear and tear over many years.
Hides trash – With a stone enclosure, passersby won’t easily spot the trash stored inside, improving aesthetics.
Can incorporate lid – Custom building allows inclusion of a stone lid or wood slats to obscure trash cans.
Large capacity – Stone enclosures can be sized to fit multiple cans or containers.
Odor control – Stone won’t absorb smells like wood can. Vent holes keep air circulating.

Cons of Stone Trash Enclosures:

Permanent placement – Stone enclosures can’t be shifted once constructed. Placement must be planned carefully.
Very heavy – Natural stone is extremely heavy, making emptied enclosures still difficult to maneuver.
High cost – Professionally built stone enclosures cost several thousand dollars on average. DIY projects require masonry skills.
Drainage issues – If built into a slope, water may puddle inside instead of draining properly.
Can attract pests – Gaps or cracks allow creatures to enter and nest. Mortar must fully seal joints.

Composite Trash Containers

For a more updated and sleek look, consider composite outdoor waste containers. These are made from materials like exterior-grade MDF combined with plastics designed to endure outdoor abuse.

Pros of Composite Trash Containers:

Durable – Composites resist dents, cracks, stains, and water damage better than natural materials like wood.
Animal-proof – Composite bins offer tightly sealing lids and doors that keep pests out of the trash.
Odorless – Composite materials won’t absorb smells like wood can. Small vent holes allow airflow.
Graffiti resistant – Most graffiti wipes off easily from composite without staining.
Easy mobility – Composite bins are lighter than wood or stone and often have built-in wheels.
Attractive styles – Composite allows for stylish shaped and decorative details not possible with other materials.

Cons of Composite Trash Containers:

Can still show wear – Heavy use can cause scratches and dings on composite exterior.
Limited size options – Most composite bins max out at 150 liter capacity. Not ideal for large volumes of trash.
Hardware issues – Door hinges, latches and wheels may corrode or fail over time.
Higher cost – Composite bins range from $200 on the low end to over $800 for large ornate containers.
Heat concerns – In hot climates, darker composite colors may warp or discolor from sun exposure.
Not biodegradable – Composite bins won’t naturally break down if buried over time.

Choosing the Best Outdoor Trash Container

Selecting the ideal outdoor trash storage bin for your needs will depend on factors like:

Available space – Consider the dimensions of the area where the bin will be situated. Avoid options that are too cramped or intrusive.
Waste volume – Choose a container size that can comfortably accommodate your typical amounts of trash between pickups. Overfull bins cause problems.
Mobility needs – Do you need to wheel the container to the curb each week? If so, ensure you select a mobile option.
Animal issues – What sort of local wildlife do you need to fend off from your garbage? Raccoons can be persistent.
HOA requirements – If under a homeowner’s association, make sure your container doesn’t violate any rules they’ve established.
Durability concerns – Take into account weather factors like snow, heat and humidity that might shorten lifespan.
Aesthetic goals – Select a style and color that complements your outdoor space rather than clashing.

Tips for Success with Outdoor Trash Containers

Once you’ve selected the ideal outdoor trash storage bin, keep these tips in mind:

Place on a level surface to minimize tipping accidents. Consider paving the area underneath.
Keep away from flammable objects like dry vegetation in case of hot cigarette butts igniting debris inside.
Situate in a shaded spot, out of constant direct sun to prevent premature fading and cracking.
Elevate off wet ground with pavers or cinder blocks to reduce risk of moisture damage.
Secure tightly sealed lids to keep pests from invading and spreading garbage around.
Plan for latch accommodations if you want the option of locking for added security.
Maintain paint and sealants to repair cracks that compromise weather and critter resistance.
Empty frequently to prevent overloading, which can lead to broken lids, busted hinges and spilled trash.
Wash periodically with disinfectant to control smells and germs on the container surface.
Use absorbent materials like baking soda or charcoal inside to help reduce odors between emptyings.

Key Takeaways on Outdoor Trash Storage Containers

Look for durable materials like thick plastic, steel, wood composites or stone to withstand outdoor elements.
Opt for large capacity containers if you generate high trash volumes between pickups.
Ensure lids seal tightly to control odors and keep pests from accessing waste.
Consider mobility features like wheels if you need to move the container on trash day.
Seek animal-proof options with latching lids if local wildlife are problematic.
Select colors, styles and materials that will enhance rather than detract from your outdoor space.
Situate containers on level ground in shaded spots away from flammables.

With the right outdoor trash container choice, you can keep your garbage tidy, critter-free and out of sight in any outdoor space. Consider your specific needs, available options and your community’s guidelines before deciding which style of container is most acceptable for your outdoor trash storage application.

Frequently Asked Questions About Outdoor Trash Containers

Which outdoor trash container is best?

The best outdoor trash container depends on your specific needs and application. Wheelie bins offer large capacity and mobility but take up more space. Standard cans are inexpensive and customizable but less durable. Wooden boxes have aesthetics but need maintenance. There is no universally “best” option overall.

How do I keep raccoons out of my outdoor trash?

To deter pesky raccoons, opt for containers with tightly sealing lids that fasten shut. Look for self-closing swinging doors on wooden and composite bins. Avoid open topped cans. Also helpful – latches, child-proof locks, heavy lids, and bungee cords to secure bags.

What should I look for in an outdoor trash can?

Ideal outdoor trash cans should be durable, weatherproof, UV resistant, non-absorbent, affordable, odor containing, critter proof via tight seals, and in colors/styles that match your space. Mobility features are helpful if you need to wheel to the curb.

How do I choose the right size outdoor trash can?

Consider how much trash you generate between pickups and choose a can that allows at least 50% more volume than your current output. Oversized is better than overflowing. Measure bin dimensions and make sure they fit in your space. Allow room for easy removal of bags.

How can I decorate my outdoor trash can?

Outdoor trash can decoration ideas include painting the can bright colors, stenciling creative shapes/patterns, wrapping with faux materials like bamboo or stone, attaching hardware like handles or casters, adding molded house numbers or names, affixing magnets, using spray wraps, or even mounting artificial flowers/vines to the can.

How often should outdoor trash cans be cleaned?

Outdoor trash cans should be fully cleaned out at least once per month using disinfectant to control germs and odors. Spraying the interior with bleach solution between full cleanings helps. Remove any residues around the can rim and lid seal. Monitor cans for leaks or damage.

Can I put my outdoor trash can in front of my house?

Most municipalities allow outdoor trash cans to be kept in front of a home. However, some communities prohibit front-facing curbside storage and require cans be kept in side or rear yards screened by a fence or landscaping. Check your local ordinances for rules on trash can placement.

What kind of trash can is best for outdoors?

For outdoors, choose cans made from durable materials like commercial grade plastic, powder coated steel, or thick composite able to withstand weather elements. Look for UV inhibitors, rust proofing, and frost-free designs. Ensure a tight sealing lid and sturdy handles. Include mobility like wheels if needed.

How do I secure my outdoor trash can?

To secure outdoor cans, use tight sealing locked lids. Place cans in locked enclosures. Lock trash bags inside with bungee cords. Use ratchet straps to affix lids. Attach cans to a fixed structure with a cable lock. Place multiple cans in a locked bin. Use hanging or under-lid can locks. Brand cans subtly.

Conclusion

Selecting functional, durable and attractive outdoor trash storage is an important decision when designing your exterior space. By taking into account your specific requirements and local constraints while also understanding the pros and cons of popular container options, you can make the ideal choice. Investing in a quality outdoor trash can tailored to your needs will pay dividends for years to come in cleanliness, enhanced curb appeal and hassle-free waste management. With the right container as part of your garbage storage solution, you can create an efficient and visually pleasing waste management system for your home or business’s exterior areas.