That's a great question! Graffiti can be a real headache for city maintenance. For a truly graffiti-resistant urban trash can, you need to focus on both material and surface finish.
The top recommendation is a heavy-duty trash bin made from powder-coated steel. The powder coating creates a very smooth, non-porous surface. Spray paint has a hard time adhering to it, and what does stick can usually be wiped off easily with a solvent or a pressure washer. Stainless steel bins with a specific brushed or satin finish are another excellent choice. The smooth metal surface doesn't hold paint well, allowing for relatively easy removal.
Look for products marketed as "vandal-proof" or with "anti-graffiti coating." Some advanced coatings are even "sacrificial." A clear topcoat is designed so that when graffiti is applied, you can use a special cleaner that removes the graffiti *and* this top layer together. You then reapply the clear coat, restoring a brand-new look. This is cost-effective for long-term maintenance.
For high-traffic areas like transit stations or downtown cores, consider a bin with a textured metal surface or a dark, patterned color scheme. These designs can make graffiti less visually prominent even if it occurs, buying time for cleanup. Brands like Toter, Glasdon, and United Receptacle offer robust commercial lines built for this exact urban challenge.
Ultimately, the best can combines a resilient physical structure with a smart surface treatment that either repels paint or simplifies its removal, saving your city or district significant time and money on upkeep.