That's a great question! As someone who's dealt with maintaining public spaces, I can tell you that power washers are a fantastic tool for cleaning urban trash cans, but with some important caveats.
Most modern, durable urban trash cans—typically made from heavy-duty plastic, powder-coated steel, or stainless steel—are designed to withstand weather and rough use, which includes occasional power washing. The high-pressure stream is incredibly effective at blasting away stuck-on grime, sticky residues, and general built-up dirt that a simple rinse can't handle. It saves an enormous amount of time and labor compared to manual scrubbing.
However, it's not as simple as just pointing and spraying. You need to use the correct technique. A wide-angle (40-degree) nozzle and a medium-pressure setting are best to avoid damaging the can's surface or its protective coating. Always maintain a safe distance of about 1.5 to 2 feet. It's also crucial to avoid directing the jet into hinges, locks, or any drainage holes with too much force, as this can force water and debris into mechanisms and cause damage.
For cans with significant interior organic waste buildup, a pre-rinse or manual removal of bulk debris is recommended before power washing. Furthermore, always use a biodegradable cleaner or degreaser in conjunction with the washer for sanitation, not just for appearance. So, the short answer is yes, they can be easily cleaned with a power washer, but "easily" implies using the right, careful method to ensure the cans are not only clean but also undamaged and ready for long-term service.