If you've noticed your city's plastic trash cans looking a bit worse for wear during summer, you're not imagining things. The short answer is yes - plastic urban trash cans can absolutely warp and degrade in intense summer heat.
Most municipal trash bins are made from polyethylene or polypropylene, plastics that begin to soften at temperatures around 140-160°F (60-71°C). When dark-colored bins sit in direct sunlight, they can easily reach these temperatures, especially during heatwaves. The plastic doesn't melt dramatically like ice cream, but it can gradually deform under its own weight or when waste collectors handle them.
You might notice lids not fitting properly, bins developing bulges, or surfaces becoming brittle and discolored over time. This UV degradation combined with heat exposure causes plastic polymers to break down, making bins more susceptible to cracking.
Many cities now use UV-stabilized plastics and lighter colors to reflect heat, but extreme summers still take their toll. Proper maintenance and occasional replacement remain necessary for keeping urban waste management systems functional through the hottest months.