That's a great question with a more interesting answer than you might expect! While you might picture that classic forest green or basic black, the current trend in commercial urban trash cans is actually leaning toward more thoughtful, muted earth tones and darker shades.
The most popular colors we're seeing in cities worldwide are deep charcoal grays, dark bronzes, and various shades of dark green. These colors have become favorites for several practical reasons. Darker hues are excellent at concealing minor scuffs, dirt, and daily wear-and-tear, which means they maintain their professional appearance longer with less maintenance. They also tend to blend more harmoniously with diverse urban landscapes, from historic districts to modern parks, without drawing unnecessary attention.
Many cities are specifically choosing colors that complement their unique environment. Coastal cities might opt for navy blues or deep teals, while areas with abundant greenery often select colors that mirror their natural surroundings. Beyond aesthetics, color serves functional purposes too. Many municipalities use color-coded systems where different hues indicate specific waste streams—blue for recycling, green for compost, and black for landfill waste.
The shift toward these sophisticated, practical colors reflects how cities are rethinking even the smallest elements of urban design to create cleaner, more cohesive, and more sustainable public spaces.