If I had to pick the single most common gripe, it's definitely the smell. A week's worth of food scraps baking in the sun creates a truly special kind of stench that can ruin a patio evening. It attracts every fly in the neighborhood and makes taking the trash out a dreaded chore.
Right behind odor is the pest problem. Raccoons, possums, stray cats, and even bears see a standard trash can as an all-you-can-eat buffet. They knock cans over, rip bags open, and scatter garbage everywhere, leaving a huge mess to clean up at dawn.
Then there's the issue of durability. Cheap plastic cans crack in winter cold or become brittle and shatter. Metal cans rust out at the bottom, leading to leaks. Lids break off or don't seal properly, which circles right back to the smell and pest issues.
Many people also complain about cans being too small or the wrong shape. They overflow between pickups, or they're awkward to drag to the curb. Wind constantly blows lightweight cans over, spilling contents down the street.
Finally, there's the sheer inconvenience and mess. Leaky bags leave a trail of gross liquid. Sticky residues build up inside, requiring a deep scrub. In winter, trash freezes solid, making it impossible to empty the can fully.
The fixes? For smell, use baking soda, secure lid seals, and rinse cans regularly. For pests, get cans with locking lids or use bungee cords. Invest in a quality, heavy-duty can made of thick plastic or galvanized steel. Consider a larger size or one with wheels if needed. A simple liner and a monthly wash make maintenance much easier. It's about choosing the right can and building a few good habits.