Umbra Garbage Can, 16-Gallon

There’s no escaping it. Whether you live in a large home or a small apartment, you’re going to have trash. Outdoor garbage bins are essential for keeping trash organized and safe from critters.

Home expert Vicki Liston warns that “purchasing a garbage bin is not as straightforward and simple as you might expect.” The guide below will help you determine which outdoor garbage bin is perfect for your needs.

Start off determining what size trash can you need.

“Choose an appropriate bin size based on the number of members in your household, so you aren’t unnecessarily lugging a burdensome can to the curb or dealing with a can that is overflowing halfway through the week,” says Liston.

There are smaller bins that hold around 23 gallons, like the Safco Plastic Step-On Outdoor Garbage Bin, 23-Gallon, as well as larger bins that can hold as much as 64 gallons of garbage.

Look at the outdoor garbage can’s construction next.

“Since your garbage bin will be sitting outside, you’ll want to ensure that it’s made of materials that can withstand all kinds of weather. Rain, snow, hail, rough winds and hot and cold temperature extremes will put it to the test,” says Liston.

While some models are made out of metal, a heavy-duty plastic is the most common. Metal has a tendency to rust over time. The Toter Trash Can, 64 gallon is well made and even has an extended life expectancy. It can even handle the weekly abuse from your local sanitation workers. This is important as Liston points out that “sanitation trucks most likely won’t be soft and gentle as they empty the bin and drop it back down on the unforgiving pavement.”

Check the outdoor garbage can for wheels. Liston points out that “a family of four can produce 80 pounds of garbage per week. That’s a heavy load!” She goes on to say that “choosing a garbage bin with wheels makes transporting trash to the end of your driveway and back a breeze.” The Rubbermaid Trash Can, 50 Gallon is a good choice, as it has two back wheels with high-performance treads.

Lastly, you’ll want to examine the trash can’s lid to determine whether it’s attached or not. Liston recommends you “always opt for a garbage bin with an attached lid.” She warns that “if the can and the lid have the potential to be separated, they most definitely will.” Look for a model that not only has an attached lid, but also a lid latch to secure the lid in place. This keeps outdoor animals from getting to the garbage and making a mess.

• Some outdoor trash cans also come with the option of purchasing matching products for your patio, garden or back porch. These may include a patio seat, patio bench or a deck box with seat.
• You don’t have to go with a traditional outdoor trash can design. You’ll find plenty of models that are attractive and made to complement your outdoor space. There are models with a faux wainscoting design, as well as units that resemble wicker furniture.
• Outdoor trash cans will need to be cleaned from time to time. All you need to do is add a little dish soap to the bottom of the can and spray it down with your garden hose. Dump the soapy water out afterward and then rinse the garbage can clean and set it out to air dry.
• The cost of outdoor garbage cans is directly related to the amount of trash the bin can hold. That means the Safco Plastic Step-On Outdoor Garbage Bin, 23-Gallon is on the lower end of the price scale, while the Rubbermaid Trash Can, 50 Gallon sits directly in the middle. You’ll find the Toter Trash Can, 64 gallon costs the most, as it has the biggest capacity.