That's an excellent question! As someone who's used various outdoor bins for years, I can share some practical insights about UV resistance.
Most quality outdoor trash cans are manufactured with UV-protected materials, but their performance varies significantly. From my experience, premium polyethylene bins with UV inhibitors tend to hold up best. The plastic molecules in these bins are formulated to absorb and disperse UV radiation rather than letting it break down the material's structure.
Regarding color fading - yes, it does happen over time, but the rate depends on several factors. Darker colors like forest green or black generally maintain their hue longer because they contain more color-stabilizing pigments. Lighter colors may show fading more noticeably after several seasons of intense sun exposure. I've noticed my dark gray bin has maintained its color much better than my neighbor's beige one after three years in the same sunny location.
The manufacturing process makes a huge difference. Rotation-molded bins typically have color pigments distributed throughout the entire material, meaning fading occurs more gradually. Cheaper spray-painted or coated bins might look great initially but can show wear patterns within a single season.
For maximum UV protection, I recommend looking for bins specifically labeled "UV-resistant" or "weather-proof." These usually incorporate carbon black or other UV stabilizers during production. Regular maintenance like occasional cleaning and using protective covers during peak summer months can also extend your bin's appearance and lifespan.
Ultimately, while some gradual fading is natural, a quality UV-protected trash can should maintain both its structural integrity and appearance for 5+ years even in direct sunlight. The key is investing in properly manufactured products rather than the cheapest option available.