Best Outdoor Trash Can for beginners 2025

Our pick: Commercial Zone 732101 Open-Top Indoor/Outdoor Square 42 Gallon Large Waste Trash

After testing the Commercial Zone 732101 Open-Top Trash Can in both indoor and outdoor environments, it’s clear this is a solid choice for commercial or public use. With a 42-gallon capacity and robust plastic build, it easily accommodates high-volume waste without sacrificing stability or cleanliness. Its square footprint allows for efficient placement in corners or alongside walls, and the open-top design makes it ideal for areas with constant foot traffic, such as offices, parks, or retail entrances.

Pros

• Sturdy High-Density Polyethylene Construction

• Large 42-Gallon Capacity

• Easy-Clean Surface with Standard Degreaser

• Patented Grab Bag System for Secure Liner Hold

Con

• No Built-In Lid Closure for Odor Control

The Commercial Zone 732101 is a functional, low-maintenance trash can built for busy spaces. While the lack of a lid might limit its use in odor-sensitive environments, its ease of use, capacity, and durability make it a reliable option for commercial waste management. Overall, a well-designed and practical investment.

Also great: EAST OAK 38 Gallon Outdoor Trash Can

The East Oak 38-Gallon Outdoor Trash Can strikes a strong balance between aesthetics and practicality. Designed with weather-resistant resin and a sleek dual-lid system, this unit is built to handle daily outdoor use while keeping your patio, backyard, or driveway neat and visually appealing. During testing, it proved reliable under various weather conditions and was especially easy to set up and maintain—an ideal solution for homeowners who want both form and function.

Pros

• Weatherproof Resin Construction

• Dual-Lid Design for Clean Appearance

• Removable Tray for Liquid Management

• Tool-Free Assembly in Under 10 Minutes

Con

• Outer Lid Clasp May Weaken Over Time

The East Oak 38-Gallon Trash Can delivers solid value for outdoor waste storage. Its user-friendly features, including the hidden bag system and leak tray, add convenience without compromising durability. While the lid clasp might not endure heavy abuse, the overall design is thoughtful and effective. A dependable choice for keeping outdoor areas clean and organized.

Also great: Keter Rockford Resin 38 Gallon Outdoor Kitchen Trash Can

The Keter Rockford Resin 38-Gallon Outdoor Trash Can is a thoughtfully engineered solution for those needing reliable outdoor waste storage with a clean, upscale look. With its durable resin build and smart double-lid design, this unit offers both functionality and style. During real-world use, it stood up well to wind, rain, and daily wear, making it a low-maintenance option for patios, decks, and outdoor kitchens.

Pros

• Weather-Resistant Polypropylene Body

• Double-Lid Design for Concealment and Security

• Built-In Fluid Drawer for Easy Cleanup

• Rust- and Dent-Proof Resin Construction

Con

• Limited Capacity for Oversized Trash Items

The Keter Rockford Trash Can combines form and durability in a compact footprint. Its weatherproof features and concealed lid system make it ideal for outdoor living spaces. While not designed for bulky waste, it’s an excellent pick for homeowners seeking a tidy, resilient, and visually appealing outdoor trash solution.

Source: Amazon

Keeping your outdoor trash can clean and disinfected is essential to control odors, bacteria, and pests. Here’s a simple yet effective cleaning process:

Empty the Can Completely: Make sure the trash can is free of any garbage or liners. Shake out loose debris.

Rinse with Water: Use a garden hose to spray the interior and exterior of the can. If needed, use hot water for a deeper clean.

Scrub with Cleaning Solution: Mix water with dish soap, vinegar, or a disinfecting cleaner. Use a long-handled brush or sponge to scrub all surfaces, especially the bottom and lid.

Disinfect: Spray the inside with a disinfectant like bleach solution (1 cup of bleach to 1 gallon of water) or a commercial antibacterial spray. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes.

Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse off the cleaning solution with clean water.

Dry Completely: Let the can dry in the sun, which also helps kill bacteria and neutralize odors.

For best results, repeat this process once a month or more frequently during warmer seasons.

What Size Outdoor Trash Can Do I Need?

The ideal size of your outdoor trash can depends on your household size, trash output, and local waste collection rules:

Small Households (1–2 people): A 20–32 gallon can is typically sufficient.

Medium Households (3–4 people): A 32–50 gallon trash can works well for weekly waste.

Large Households (5+ people): Consider a 64–96 gallon bin to handle higher volumes.

Multi-bin Setup: Some homeowners use multiple cans—one for general waste, one for recyclables, and one for yard debris.

Also, check with your local waste management service. Some areas have specific size limits or provide designated bins.

What Happens If You Leave Trash Outside?

Leaving trash outside unsecured can lead to several unwanted consequences:

Animal Attraction: Trash is a magnet for raccoons, stray dogs, rodents, and even bears in certain areas. They can tear bags open, creating messes and spreading bacteria.

Odor Issues: Organic waste decomposes quickly, especially in the heat. This produces strong, unpleasant smells that linger around your home.

Health Hazards: Exposed garbage can harbor bacteria, mold, and insects like flies or maggots, posing a health risk to both humans and pets.

Fines or Penalties: Some municipalities fine homeowners for improper trash storage or littering, especially if garbage is scattered by animals or wind.

To avoid these issues, always store your trash in a secure, lidded outdoor bin.

Why Do People Leave Trash on the Ground?

Despite public awareness campaigns, littering is still common for several reasons:

Lack of Trash Bins Nearby: In parks, streets, or public spaces, some people leave trash behind simply because there are no convenient receptacles.

Carelessness or Laziness: Some individuals don’t see the immediate consequence of littering and choose convenience over responsibility.

Overflowing Bins: When trash cans are full, people often leave garbage around them rather than taking it elsewhere.

Cultural Habits or Poor Education: In some communities, littering is normalized or there’s limited understanding of its environmental impact.

Tackling this issue requires a mix of better waste infrastructure, stricter enforcement, and ongoing public education.

When it comes to finding the best outdoor trash can, durability, capacity, and design all matter. Whether you're dealing with yard waste, household garbage, or pesky critters, the right bin can make a big difference. After comparing the top options, it’s clear that the best choice depends on your specific needs—whether that’s a heavy-duty can with wheels or a sleek, animal-resistant model. No matter which one you choose, investing in a quality outdoor trash can means less hassle and a cleaner, more organized space.