That's a great question, and one that many city planners and property managers grapple with. The short answer is yes, there absolutely are outdoor trash cans designed to be difficult to graffiti, or at least to make cleanup a breeze. The key isn't necessarily finding a surface graffiti won't stick to—it's about using materials and finishes where removal is quick and cheap.
First, look for bins made from non-porous materials. Stainless steel, especially with a smooth, polished finish, is a top contender. Spray paint has a hard time bonding strongly to it, and a quick wipe with a graffiti remover solvent usually does the trick. Powder-coated steel is another good option, but the quality of the coating matters; a high-quality, thick coating creates a barrier that prevents paint from soaking in.
Some manufacturers take it further with special anti-graffiti coatings. These are often clear, protective layers applied over the bin's surface. When graffiti is applied, you can use a specific cleaner (sometimes provided by the manufacturer) that strips the vandal's paint without harming the underlying protective coat. It's like having a permanent, renewable sacrificial layer.
Design plays a role, too. Bins with curved surfaces, fewer flat planes, and minimal seams or edges are less inviting for taggers. Complex, textured surfaces can also make clean, crisp lettering difficult to achieve, acting as a subtle deterrent.
So, while no bin is 100% "graffiti-proof," opting for stainless steel, quality powder-coated models, or bins with dedicated anti-graffiti films will save you countless hours and dollars on maintenance. The goal is to make the vandal's work temporary and your cleanup effortless.