I’d start by treating it as both a cleaning job and a surface-protection job. First, put on gloves, eye protection, and old clothes. If you’re using solvents or pressure washing, work outdoors with good ventilation and keep runoff away from storm drains, plants, and waterways. If the bin belongs to the city or a business, check with the relevant department before using harsh chemicals or repainting it.
Remove any loose paint, sticker residue, or dirt with a stiff brush or plastic scraper. Then test your cleaner on a small hidden spot. For metal bins, a graffiti remover or solvent-based cleaner usually works well. For plastic or powder-coated bins, use a gentler graffiti gel or a citrus-based cleaner to reduce the risk of dulling or melting the surface. Apply the product, let it dwell according to the label, and scrub with a non-abrasive pad. Avoid acetone or strong thinners on plastic unless the manufacturer says it’s safe.
For stubborn stains, a pressure washer can help, but use a wide nozzle and keep the pressure moderate so you don’t strip paint or etch plastic. Work top to bottom, rinse thoroughly, and dry the bin before deciding whether it needs repainting. If the graffiti has stained deeply, a matching spray paint or powder-coat touch-up may be the cleanest fix. Once it’s clean, apply an anti-graffiti coating if the bin is in a hotspot; that makes future cleanup much easier and helps protect the surface.