That's an excellent and very practical question. As someone who's specified bins for public spaces, I can tell you that resistance to graffiti is a major focus for manufacturers today. The short answer is: modern outdoor trash cans are significantly more graffiti-resistant than they were a decade ago, but their performance depends heavily on the materials and coatings used.
The primary defense is in the material itself. Powder-coated steel, stainless steel, and heavy-duty polyethylene are the most common. Stainless steel, particularly with a brushed or matte finish, is a top performer because spray paint has a hard time adhering to its non-porous surface and is often easy to wipe off before it dries. High-density polyethylene bins are also excellent; graffiti on their smooth, slightly flexible surface can frequently be removed with a pressure washer or a commercial cleaner without damaging the bin's color, which is molded throughout the material.
The real game-changer has been specialized anti-graffiti coatings. Many bins now come with a permanent clear coat that creates a protective barrier. When graffiti is applied, it sits on top of this barrier instead of soaking into the material. This allows for removal using mild solvents or pressure washing without harming the underlying finish. Some advanced coatings are even "sacrificial." You remove the graffiti and the thin top layer of the coating together, then reapply a fresh coat from a spray can, effectively renewing the surface.
It's important to have realistic expectations. No bin is 100% "graffiti-proof." Determined vandals with sharp tools can still scratch surfaces. However, the goal of these resistant designs is twofold: first, to make the act of graffiti less satisfying (as the paint may bead up or not stick well), and second, to drastically reduce the time, cost, and harsh chemicals needed for cleanup. This "easy-clean" characteristic is often the biggest benefit for maintenance teams.
So, when selecting a bin, look for terms like "graffiti-resistant," "vandal-proof," or "with anti-graffiti coating." The initial investment is higher, but it pays off in dramatically lower long-term maintenance. The best strategy combines a resistant product with a prompt cleanup protocol, which together discourage repeat vandalism.