That's an excellent question, as temperature extremes are a real concern for anything left outside year-round. From my experience, how well an outdoor trash bin holds up depends almost entirely on the material it's made from.
For plastic bins, which are the most common, extreme cold is a major challenge. In freezing temperatures, standard plastics like polyethylene can become brittle. A simple knock or impact that the bin would easily handle in summer can cause it to crack or shatter in winter. On the other hand, prolonged exposure to intense UV rays from the sun can cause the plastic to fade and become weak over time, a process called photodegradation. High-quality, UV-resistant plastics are formulated to last much longer.
Metal bins, typically galvanized steel or aluminum, handle heat very well and won't degrade from sunlight. However, they are excellent conductors of heat. In summer, a metal bin in direct sun can become too hot to touch, and in winter, it will feel ice cold. The main vulnerability for metal is moisture, which can lead to rust if the protective coating is scratched or compromised.
A lesser-known issue is thermal expansion and contraction. As temperatures swing, materials constantly expand and contract. Over many seasons, this can stress seams and lids, potentially causing warping or making lids fit poorly.
For maximum durability in any climate, look for bins made from commercial-grade, UV-stabilized plastic or fully galvanized steel. These are specifically engineered to resist the damaging effects of temperature extremes, sun, and moisture, ensuring your bin lasts for many years.