That's a great and practical question! From my experience, cleaning an urban trash bin really depends on its design and materials. Modern bins in cities are often designed with maintenance in mind. Many are indeed hose-down friendly. You'll commonly see stainless steel or heavy-duty plastic bins that can handle a good blast from a garden hose or even a low-pressure washer. The smooth, non-porous surfaces and lack of intricate corners make rinsing out dirt and liquids straightforward.
However, not all bins are created equal. Older models or those with more complex designs might have seams, lids with hinges, or internal mechanisms that can trap grime. For these, a simple hose-down might not be enough, requiring a brush and disinfectant for a thorough clean.
The real key is the drain hole at the bottom. A good, unclogged drain hole is what makes a bin truly hose-down friendly, allowing water and debris to flow out easily. So, while many contemporary public bins are built for easy washing, it's always a good idea to check the specific design. Regular, simple hosing is usually perfectly fine and recommended for keeping them sanitary.