That's an excellent and practical question! As someone who's worked with urban planning departments, I can tell you this is a crucial consideration for modern cities. Today's high-quality public trash bins are specifically engineered to handle much more than just physical wear and tear.
Most bins installed in recent years are made from materials like high-density polyethylene (HDPE), powder-coated steel, or stainless steel. These materials are chosen for their inherent resistance. They won't corrode, stain, or degrade when exposed to common public space cleaning agents like bleach solutions, industrial-grade disinfectants, or alkaline cleaners used for pressure washing. You won't see them melting or warping from a spilled soda or a bit of household cleaner either.
However, it's not absolute. "Resistant" isn't the same as "immune." While they hold up to daily maintenance, prolonged exposure to extremely strong solvents, concentrated acids, or undiluted harsh chemicals could eventually cause damage like fading, surface dulling, or compromising structural integrity. The design focus is on resilience against the routine, harsh cleaning protocols necessary for public health.
So, to answer directly: Yes, a properly specified urban bin is highly resistant to the common chemicals and cleaning agents it will encounter in its service life. This resistance is a key factor in their longevity and low maintenance costs, making our shared spaces cleaner and more hygienic for everyone. It's one of those small but vital engineering details that keep a city functioning smoothly.