In rainy cities, I’d choose closed, corrosion-resistant bins over stylish open frames. The best all-round option is a powder-coated stainless steel or heavy-duty HDPE outdoor public trash can with a sloped or domed lid, overlapping seams, and a rain lip. Stainless steel holds up well if it’s 304-grade and the hardware is also rust-proof; powder coating adds color and scratch resistance but needs touch-ups if chipped. HDPE is lighter, never rusts, and is great for coastal rain, though it can fade and should be UV-stabilized.
Design matters as much as material. Look for a raised base or feet so water doesn’t pool around the bottom, drainage holes or a slotted bottom that let trapped water escape, and a bag-retention system that keeps liners out of puddles. A sealed or hooded opening reduces wind-driven rain, but don’t fully seal the bin—some ventilation helps odor and moisture control. Avoid flat-top bins with wide open mouths, unpainted mild steel, and decorative wood slats that soak up water. For high-traffic rainy areas, powder-coated galvanized steel with stainless fasteners is tough, while HDPE is the low-maintenance choice. In short: pick a raised, lidded, corrosion-resistant bin with good drainage, and it’ll handle wet weather much better.