That's an excellent and very practical question! It really depends on the material your bins are made from. Most modern, quality outdoor trash bins—especially those made from durable plastics like polyethylene or from stainless steel—are designed to withstand common household cleaning chemicals. Think of solutions like diluted bleach, all-purpose cleaners, or vinegar and water mixes. These are generally safe for occasional deep cleaning to disinfect and eliminate odors.
However, the key word is "common" and "diluted." Harsh solvents, abrasive cleaners, or undiluted strong acids can damage plastic surfaces, causing them to become brittle or discolored over time. For stainless steel, certain chloride-based cleaners (like some potent bleach solutions) can potentially cause pitting or corrosion if not rinsed thoroughly.
The best practice is to always check the manufacturer's care instructions. When in doubt, stick to mild soap and warm water for regular cleaning, and use a garden hose or pressure washer for rinsing. For disinfecting, a diluted bleach solution (one part bleach to nine parts water) applied briefly and rinsed extremely well is a widely accepted method that won't harm most durable bins. Proper rinsing is the most critical step to prevent any chemical residue from sitting on the material and causing long-term wear. So, yes, they are resistant with the right, careful approach.